The Bayelsa State Government held its annual Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons yesterday night in a markedly subdued atmosphere, honouring the memory of the late Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.
Ewhrudjakpo passed away on December 11, 2025.
The event, held at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, lacked the typical festive glamour.
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Governor Douye Diri revealed that he and his religious team had initially considered cancelling the program but ultimately decided to proceed as a way to honour both God and his late deputy’s service to the state.
Diri, who read the ninth lesson from Matthew 2:1-6, noted that the usual competitive renditions between the three arms of government and the civil service were suspended out of respect for the mourning period.
“Yes, our hearts are heavy because we lost our deputy governor, who would have been here to read one of the lessons,” the governor said.
“However, the truth is that each and every one of us will answer this call. While we sorrow, we are also comforted by the word of God.”
The governor expressed deep appreciation to the people of Bayelsa for their solidarity and support following the sudden demise of Ewhrudjakpo.
The South-South Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Archbishop Emmah Isong, delivered a sermon focused on the redemption of man through the birth of Jesus Christ.
He encouraged the congregation not to let current obstacles define their outlook, emphasising that God remains capable of turning stumbling blocks into stepping stones.
Despite the sober mood, the evening featured powerful classical renditions and special numbers by several renowned groups, including: the Garden City Choir, King of Glory Chapel Choir, the Heavenly Voices and the Bayelsa State 500 Mass Choir.
The solemn service brought together a wide array of state and national leaders to pay their respects and mark the season.
Representing the executive branch were First Lady Gloria Diri, SSG Nimibofa Ayawei, and Chief of Staff Peter Akpe.
From the national legislature, key figures included Senators Konbowei Benson and Benson Agadaga, alongside House members Fred Agbedi and Mitema Obodor.
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The judiciary was represented by Chief Judge Justice Matilda Ayemieye, while traditional leadership was present in the person of King Bubaraye Dakolo, Chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council.
The event concluded with a quiet but meaningful moment of reflection, balancing the celebration of the Christmas season with a collective sense of loss for a top state official.
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