**Says Former Bayelsa Deputy Governor Remained Committed PDP Member Until Death
YENAGOA, BAYELSA — September 23, 2026: Hon. (Chief) Godbless Awhowho has dismissed claims that the late former Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, was a co-founder of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Chief Awhowho, who spoke on behalf of the family of the late Deputy Governor, described the claim as false and misleading, insisting that Senator Ewhrudjakpo remained a committed member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) until his death.
According to him, the late Senator never publicly announced his defection from the PDP or declared membership of another political party.
Chief Awhowho said that even when discussions concerning possible political realignment arose, Senator Ewhrudjakpo chose to remain with the PDP and maintained his political position until his death.
He therefore urged the public to disregard claims linking the deceased to the founding or activities of the NDC without verifiable evidence.
> “The records and public statements of the deceased should speak for him. His political identity should not be rewritten after his death. If there are claims about his political affiliation, those making such claims should provide the evidence and allow the records to speak for themselves,” Chief Awhowho stated.
He also appealed to political actors, including members and supporters of the NDC, to exercise restraint and avoid attributing political positions, affiliations or intentions to the late Deputy Governor without documented evidence.
Chief Awhowho acknowledged the leadership of Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, describing his approach to political engagement as mature and focused on peace and stability in the state.
He further cautioned against turning the circumstances surrounding Senator Ewhrudjakpo’s death into a platform for political division or historical revisionism.
“Politics will continue, parties will come and go, and political alliances may change. But the legacy of a departed leader deserves truth, dignity and respect. Let the records speak—not rumours, assumptions or political convenience,” he added.
Signed:
Hon. (Chief) Godbless Awhowho
Chairman, Ofoni People Living in Sagbama
