In a decisive move to safeguard the well-being of his administration, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has issued a compulsory health screening directive for all members of the State Executive Council. This order comes one month after the tragic passing of the state's Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrujakpo, who succumbed to a suspected cardiac arrest.
Preventive Measure Following a Tragedy
Governor Diri announced the directive during the first state executive council meeting of 2026, held on 7 January 2026. He stated the move was imperative following the sudden loss of the deputy governor. Senator Ewhrujakpo had collapsed during a meeting and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa, where doctors were unable to revive him.
"All of us must be careful about our health so we can prevent avoidable death," Governor Diri emphasized. He instructed the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Seiyefa Brisibe, to ensure every cabinet member undergoes the compulsory medical check. The governor noted that while death is inevitable, public officers with hectic schedules must take preventive measures through regular health assessments to ensure fitness and longevity.
Autopsy Results and Call Against Politicisation
Governor Diri provided an update on the investigation into his deputy's death, disclosing that an autopsy had been conducted. "I directed that an autopsy be conducted, and the result is ready. At the right time, we will make it public," he stated.
He also reiterated his caution against politicising the death, expressing disappointment that some individuals engaged in such behaviour instead of showing compassion. "While we were mourning, some people were politicising the death of our deputy governor instead of showing love and compassion. This was not expected in our state," Diri said.
A burial committee, headed by the Secretary to the State Government, has been formed, and a funeral date will be announced soon.
Bayelsa Wins Health Sector Accolade
Amid the sombre reflections, the council meeting also featured a moment of celebration for the state's health sector. Commissioner Brisibe presented an award plaque and a dummy cheque for $400,000 to the governor. This prize was won by Bayelsa State for emerging as the first runner-up in the Primary Health Care Leadership Challenge for the South-South region.
The leadership challenge is funded by UNICEF, the Dangote Group, and other international bodies. Governor Diri described the achievement as refreshing and a sign that the government's investment in healthcare is yielding positive results.
"This is the best award we have won so far, and it came with a dollar reward. It is down to the exceptional performance of the Commissioner for Health," he commended.
Prof. Brisibe attributed the recognition to Governor Diri's commitment to developing the health sector. He also presented the governor with a Distinguished Leadership Award in Governance for his outstanding contribution to the growth of the National Association of Nurses and Midwives in Bayelsa and Nigeria.
