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A State in Mourning: Bayelsa Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo Passes Away at 60

Phinadon Mag

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Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo passes away at 60 after a sudden medical emergency, leaving behind a legacy of service and leadership in the Niger Delta.

The people of Bayelsa State and the nation at large are in mourning following the death of His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State.

Reports from Yenagoa confirm that the respected politician and legal professional passed away on Thursday, December 11, 2025, after a sudden medical emergency. He was 60 years old.

Senator Ewhrudjakpo was widely admired for his dedication to public servicecommitment to the Niger Delta, and unwavering integrity throughout his political career.

A Life of Service and Leadership

Before assuming the office of Deputy Governor in 2020, Ewhrudjakpo served with distinction in the 9th National Assembly, representing the Bayelsa West Senatorial District.

His tenure in the Senate was marked by advocacy for regional developmentinfrastructure improvement, and youth empowerment initiatives across the Niger Delta.

Colleagues and political associates describe him as a principled leaderastute administrator, and bridge-builder who worked tirelessly to advance the interests of his people.

Circumstances Surrounding His Passing

According to official sources, the Deputy Governor collapsed while on duty at the Government House in Yenagoa.

He was immediately rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), where medical personnel made extensive efforts to revive him, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

The Bayelsa State Government is expected to issue a formal statement outlining funeral arrangements and declaring an official period of mourning in honor of the late Deputy Governor.

Tributes and Condolences

The news of Ewhrudjakpo’s passing has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political landscape, prompting an outpouring of condolences from across the federation.

Governors, lawmakers, and national party leaders have expressed deep sorrow, describing his death as a monumental loss to Bayelsa State and the nation.

Messages of sympathy have also poured in from civil society groupstraditional rulers, and community leaders, all acknowledging his humility, professionalism, and dedication to governance.

Legacy of Commitment and Integrity

Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo leaves behind a legacy defined by service, discipline, and compassion.

Throughout his career, he championed education, social justice, and equitable development, earning the respect of both allies and opponents.

His passing marks the end of an era for Bayelsa’s political leadership, but his vision for a prosperous and united Niger Delta will continue to inspire future generations.

Phinadon Magazine’s Condolences

Phinadon Magazine extends its deepest sympathies to the Ewhrudjakpo family, the government, and the people of Bayelsa State during this time of profound loss.

May his legacy of service and leadership continue to guide the state he so passionately served.

Entertainment

The Dangers of Over-Pampering: A Warning from Mama G.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Veteran Nollywood actress, Patience Ozokwor, affectionately known as Mama G, has issued a poignant caution to parents regarding the potential pitfalls of over-pampering their children. Her insights, delivered with characteristic candor, underscore the critical link between childhood experiences and the development of responsible, independent adults.

Ozokwor argues that shielding children from challenges and readily providing for their every whim can, paradoxically, hinder their growth. She contends that allowing children to “struggle” and “go through the process” of earning what they desire is essential for character building. This approach, she clarifies, is not about inflicting hardship but rather about fostering resilience and an understanding of the effort required to achieve goals.

The actress also touched upon the delicate subject of family wealth and inheritance. She advocates for instilling in children the drive to create their own success rather than passively expecting to inherit their parents’ achievements. Mama G revealed she applied this principle directly with her own son, encouraging him to build his own home rather than assume entitlement to hers.

In an era where parental instincts often lean towards providing comfort and ease, Mama G’s words serve as a timely reminder. Her message resonates with the timeless wisdom that true preparation for adulthood lies not in the absence of struggle, but in the learned ability to navigate and overcome it. Parents, she suggests, must find a balance that nurtures their children without inadvertently undermining their capacity for self-reliance.

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Entertainment

Burna Boy has reportedly made history as the first Nigerian artist to achieve 4 billion views on YouTube.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy has once again etched his name in the annals of music history, reportedly surpassing an astounding four billion total views on YouTube. This monumental achievement not only solidifies his status as a global superstar but also marks a significant milestone as he becomes the first Nigerian and Sub-Saharan African artist to reach such a staggering figure.

The reported feat encompasses the combined views across Burna Boy’s official YouTube channel, a testament to the enduring appeal and widespread reach of his music videos. From infectious rhythms to compelling visuals, his work has consistently captivated audiences across continents, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.

This latest accomplishment builds upon a series of remarkable achievements on the video-sharing platform. As far back as 2021, Burna Boy shattered records by becoming the first Nigerian artist to exceed one billion total views on YouTube, foreshadowing the immense global impact he would continue to cultivate.

His impressive catalogue boasts a string of hit songs that have collectively garnered millions of views, each a testament to his unique artistry and genre-bending sound. Tracks like “On The Low,” “Ye,” “Last Last,” and “For My Hand” have become anthems, resonating with fans worldwide and contributing significantly to his colossal view count.

Burna Boy’s journey to global recognition has been characterized by consistent innovation, authenticity, and a relentless dedication to his craft. A Grammy-winning artist, he has not only brought Afrobeats to the forefront of the international music scene but has also proudly showcased the richness and diversity of African culture to a global audience.

This four-billion-view milestone is more than just a number; it represents the profound influence and unwavering popularity of an artist who continues to break barriers and redefine the landscape of contemporary music. Burna Boy’s success serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the immense potential of African artists to command a global stage and leave an indelible mark on the world.

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News

Nigerian military personnel have successfully rescued the wife of a retired general within 24 hours of her abduction.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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The Nigerian Army has successfully rescued Mrs. Adonkie, wife of retired Brigadier General Basil Adonkie, within 24 hours of her abduction from her Federal Capital Territory residence. This swift and decisive action was detailed in a press statement released on the Nigerian Army’s official Facebook page on Thursday, September 3, 2026.

According to the statement, the rescue operation was launched after Mrs. Adonkie was kidnapped on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. Troops from the Guards Brigade and Army Headquarters Garrison, acting on credible intelligence, swiftly mobilized. Their coordinated efforts led them through the Aco Estate–Goza Community axis, where they engaged the kidnappers. The pressure exerted by the troops forced the abductors to abandon their victim and flee into the surrounding bushes.

Mrs. Adonkie was subsequently found and rescued at Angwan Sabo Village. Following the rescue, troops intensified their pursuit along the Aco Estate-Angwan Sayawa axis, deploying additional forces to block potential escape routes.

The operation continued to yield results on Wednesday, September 2, when troops intercepted two suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate near Gaube Village in the Kuje Area Council of the FCT. This follow-up operation also led to the recovery of significant weaponry, including an AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, and 19 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.

The Nigerian Army has confirmed that clearance and tracking operations are ongoing across the area to apprehend other members of the kidnapping syndicate. They commend the vigilance and cooperation of residents, reiterating their commitment to protecting lives and property. The Army further assured the public of their continued collaboration with other security agencies to sustain intelligence-driven joint operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and enhancing security throughout the FCT and its environs. This incident underscores the dedication and effectiveness of the Nigerian Army in combating criminal activities and ensuring the safety of citizens.

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