In memory of the late Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpor, Bayelsa State on Thursday, dedicated its weekly Prosperity Walk in a show of collective tribute and remembrance.
The five-kilometre fitness walk, which has become a regular initiative of the state government, attracted a large turnout of residents and top government officials. Governor Douye Diri had earlier urged Bayelsans, during the 177th State Executive Council meeting on Wednesday, to participate in the exercise in honour of the late deputy governor, who was an enthusiastic supporter and regular participant from the inception of the programme.
Among those who joined the governor were the Controller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, who attended as a special guest, the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, other members of the legislature, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, the Head of Service, Dr. Ebiye Sawyer, commissioners, political appointees and civil servants.
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The walk commenced in Yenagoa and ended at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex, with many participants wearing customised black T-shirts bearing Ewhrudjakpor’s image, inscribed with “Lawrence @ 60.”
Addressing the crowd at the venue, Governor Diri described the death of his deputy as deeply painful and difficult to come to terms with, noting that Ewhrudjakpor played a significant role in the administration’s policies and programmes.
He said the late deputy governor was instrumental in the success of several initiatives of the government, including the Prosperity Walk, stressing that Ewhrudjakpor consistently offered support and commitment to the administration’s vision for the state.
According to the governor, the true measure of a person’s life lies not in its length but in the impact made on society, adding that Ewhrudjakpor left behind a legacy of service to Bayelsa State.
Governor Diri thanked residents for turning out in large numbers, describing the turnout as the highest since the programme began. He encouraged Bayelsans to sustain the culture of regular physical exercise beyond the commemorative walk, particularly during the festive season, for improved health and wellbeing.
Other dignitaries present included the Leader of the House of Assembly, Monday Obolo-Bubou; the Chief of Staff, Government House, Dr. Peter Akpe; his deputy, Mr. Irorodamie Komonibo, and several senior government officials.
