Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has directed that all members of the State Executive Council undergo compulsory medical examinations, citing the need to safeguard the health of public officials following the recent death of the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.
Governor Diri issued the directive during the first State Executive Council meeting of 2026, stressing that the demanding nature of public service makes regular health checks essential to prevent avoidable deaths and ensure sustained productivity in government.
He said that while death remains inevitable, deliberate steps must be taken to promote good health and longevity, especially among those entrusted with public responsibility.
“As public officers with very hectic schedules, we must pay serious attention to our health. Members of the State Executive Council are hereby directed to undergo compulsory medical checkups. This directive must be complied with,” the governor said.
Governor Diri disclosed that an autopsy had been conducted on the late deputy governor and assured that the findings would be made public at the appropriate time. He also warned against attempts to politicise the death, describing such actions as insensitive and contrary to the values of the state.
He announced that a burial committee, chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, had already been inaugurated and that the funeral date would be communicated soon.
“We thank everyone who stood with us during this period of mourning, and we pray that in 2026 we will celebrate life and not death. While we were grieving, some people chose to politicise the loss of our deputy governor instead of showing compassion. That was disappointing,” Diri said.
In a brighter development, Bayelsa State emerged first runner-up in the Primary Health Care Leadership Challenge for the South-South region, winning a cash prize of $400,000. The award, supported by UNICEF, the Dangote Group and other international partners, was presented at the council meeting.
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The Commissioner for Health, Professor Seiyefa Brisibe, presented the award plaque and a dummy cheque to the governor, describing the achievement as a reflection of sustained investment and reforms in the state’s health sector.
Governor Diri welcomed the recognition, describing it as one of the most significant awards received by the state, noting that it came with tangible financial support.
“This is a refreshing and encouraging development. It shows that our investments in the health sector are yielding results. This award, especially with a dollar component, reflects exceptional performance. When you work hard, results will follow,” the governor said.
Professor Brisibe attributed Bayelsa’s success in the competition to the governor’s consistent commitment to healthcare development and system strengthening across the state.
He also presented Governor Diri with the Distinguished Leadership Award in Governance in recognition of his contributions to the growth and advancement of the National Association of Nurses and Midwives in Bayelsa State and Nigeria at large.
The twin developments underscored a sober moment of reflection for the Bayelsa government alongside a renewed boost of confidence in its health sector reforms.
