Uncertainty has trailed reports announcing the alleged death of Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, following conflicting statements from political stakeholders.

Earlier on Thursday, Ewhrudjakpo reportedly collapsed and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Yenagoa, where he was said to have been in critical condition.

Amid the tension, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faction released a statement on Thursday evening through its spokesperson, Ini Ememobong, claiming the party had received “with deep shock” news of Ewhrudjakpo’s passing.

“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has received with deep shock the news of the passing of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State and a trusted, faithful party man, His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo, who reportedly collapsed and died earlier today,” the statement read.

The PDP described Ewhrudjakpo as a principled politician, a man of conviction, and a leader whose life was anchored on integrity and strong character.

However, despite the PDP’s announcement, the Bayelsa State Government has not confirmed his death. When contacted by TheCable, Daniel Alabrah, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Douye Diri, said an official statement would only be issued once Ewhrudjakpo’s passing is fully verified.

Governor Diri defected from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on November 4, but Ewhrudjakpo had remained in the opposition party.

As of Thursday night, Bayelsans and the wider public await an authoritative confirmation from the state government amid the growing confusion.