By Els William
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator (Dr.) Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, describing his passing as a major loss to the state, the oil and gas industry and the nation.
In a condolence message addressed to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, Engr. Ogbe conveyed the sympathy of the management and staff of the NCDMB on the untimely demise of the deputy governor.
According to the NCDMB boss, the news of Ewhrudjakpo’s death came as a shock, prompting profound grief across the Board. He extended heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the late deputy governor, the Bayelsa State Government and the people of the state.
Ogbe described the late Ewhrudjakpo as a committed public servant whose contributions went beyond politics, particularly in advancing investment opportunities and fostering harmonious relationships between oil and gas host communities, operating companies and service providers.
He recalled that the deceased played a notable role in strengthening collaboration between Bayelsa State and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, beginning from his tenure as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure in the state.
According to him, Ewhrudjakpo consistently maintained a close and supportive relationship with the NCDMB, frequently attending and representing Bayelsa State at key industry platforms, including the annual Practical Nigerian Content (PNC) Forum, the Nigerian Oil and Gas Opportunities Fair (NOGOF), and the groundbreaking ceremony of the Oloibiri Museum and Research Centre.
Through his active engagement at such events, Ogbe noted, the late deputy governor made significant contributions to the advancement of local content development, bringing “insightful ideas, intellectual depth, and a refreshing personality” to discussions within the oil and gas industry.
The NCDMB executive secretary said Ewhrudjakpo’s dedication to public service and industry collaboration would be remembered as part of his enduring legacy.
He concluded by offering prayers for the peaceful repose of the late deputy governor’s soul and strength for his family and the people of Bayelsa State to bear the loss.