GOV. DIRI CONFIRMS EWHRUDJAKPO’S AUTOPSY REPORT READY, ORDERS MEDICAL CHECK-UP FOR BAYELSA CABINET MEMBERS
The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has disclosed that the autopsy report of the late Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, is now ready, assuring that it will be made public at the appropriate time.
Governor Diri made the disclosure on Wednesday during the first State Executive Council meeting of 2026, held in Yenagoa.
He also announced that a burial committee, chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, has been constituted, adding that details of the funeral arrangements would be communicated in due course.
The governor condemned attempts by some individuals to politicise the death of the former deputy governor, who passed away last year after reportedly slumping while on duty.
According to Diri, while death is inevitable, individuals can still take preventive health measures to reduce avoidable loss of life.
In a related development, the governor directed the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Seiyefa Brisibe, to ensure that all members of the Bayelsa State Executive Council undergo compulsory medical check-ups.
He stressed that the directive was mandatory, noting that the demanding nature of public service requires leaders to be medically fit at all times.
“As public officers with very hectic schedules, it is important that we regularly check our health to prevent avoidable deaths,” the governor said.
He added, “Members of the State Executive Council must go for compulsory medical check-ups. This is a directive that must be complied with.”
Governor Diri further confirmed that the decision to conduct an autopsy on the late deputy governor was deliberate and in the interest of transparency.
“I directed that an autopsy be conducted, and the result is ready. At the right time, we will make it public,” he said.
Expressing appreciation to residents and well-wishers who stood by the state during the period of mourning, the governor prayed for a year of celebration rather than sorrow.
“We thank everyone who grieved with us. We pray that in 2026, we will celebrate and not mourn,” he stated.
