Anxiety spread through Yenagoa on Thursday after Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, reportedly collapsed in his office and was taken to the Intensive Care Unit of the Federal Medical Centre in the state capital.
According to eyewitness accounts, the incident happened at about 1:30 pm. Staff members immediately called for medical assistance, and the deputy governor was moved to the hospital’s emergency ward before being admitted to the ICU. Several witnesses described his condition as serious when he arrived.
Reports on his current state remain conflicting. Some hospital sources told our correspondent that he has been stabilised, while others said he is still in critical condition. There has been no official explanation for what caused the health scare, although multiple sources suggested that it may have been triggered by a cardiac complication.
A senior government official who spoke on background said the deputy governor had maintained a demanding schedule in recent weeks. “He hardly rests. He is always working,” the source said, adding that fatigue may have played a role in the incident.
Security personnel have since restricted access around the hospital, and several top government figures were seen visiting to check on his condition. Meanwhile, the mood across Yenagoa remains tense as residents await clear information.
Attempts to reach the deputy governor’s media aide, Doubara Atasi, were unsuccessful as of press time. Hospital officials, however, said he is receiving comprehensive care and that doctors are monitoring him closely.
Political analysts note that sudden medical emergencies involving high-ranking public officials often heighten public concern, especially in states where leadership stability is crucial. According to a public health expert contacted for context, stress and untreated cardiovascular issues remain common but preventable risks among senior officeholders in Nigeria.
Efforts to obtain confirmation from government house insiders also proved unsuccessful. Authorities are expected to release an official statement once more details are verified.
Add a Comment