The Deputy Governor of Bayelsa state, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, has paid glowing tribute to the late Chief Nelson Ayebakuro, a former Commissioner for Special Duties, calling him a man of integrity whose contributions to the state will continue to resonate for years. His remarks were made during a special valedictory session held in the Executive Chamber of the Bayelsa State Government House in Yenagoa, which was attended by several dignitaries, including former Deputy Governors Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (Rtd) and Chief Peremobowei Ebebi.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo spoke highly of the late Ayebakuro, emphasizing that the former commissioner’s life of service to the people of Bayelsa East and the broader Bayelsa State left a lasting impact. "From the testimonies of his colleagues who served with him in the administration of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, it is clear that Chief Ayebakuro was a committed public servant who served with distinction," Ewhrudjakpo noted.
Drawing inspiration from Ayebakuro’s legacy, the Deputy Governor urged others in public service to follow in his footsteps, stressing that the true measure of one's life is not in how long they live but in the positive impact they leave behind. “It’s not the length of your life that matters, but the impact you make while alive,” Ewhrudjakpo remarked. He encouraged the grieving family to find solace in the remarkable 61 years of life that Ayebakuro had lived, full of service, dedication, and integrity.
The Deputy Governor also expressed gratitude to Governor Douye Diri for instituting the practice of holding special valedictory sessions to honor distinguished Bayelsans who had served as members of the State Executive Council, ensuring their legacies are recognized even after their passing. “Thank God for the life he has lived. Today, Chief Ayebakuro is spoken of in glowing terms. The question is, when your time comes, will the same be said of you?" Ewhrudjakpo asked, encouraging those present to reflect on their own lives and legacies.
In his touching tribute, Ewhrudjakpo also reached out to Ayebakuro’s family, urging them to draw strength from the enduring memory of their loved one. "I encourage you not to view his passing as a loss but as a gain,” he said, stressing that the family should take pride in Ayebakuro’s life and the strength of his children, who continue to carry forward his legacy. “His memory will live on in the lives of his children, and that is something to hold onto in this time of grief,” he added.
Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (Rtd), former Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Bayelsa Elders Council, shared a personal reflection on the late Ayebakuro’s character, linking his strength of character and compassion to the influence of his late father, a brave naval officer who had saved countless lives during his military service. "The good that Ayebakuro did in his life can be traced back to the foundation laid by his father," Admiral Jonah remarked. He described Ayebakuro as a man whose commitment to his community and to humanity reflected the best values of Bayelsa.
Other former colleagues also paid tribute to Ayebakuro, recalling his simple, jovial, and hardworking nature. Chief Adolphus Forcados, a former Commissioner for Special Duties (Central), described Ayebakuro as a man who understood his purpose and dedicated himself to serving others. "He was a man of principle and humility, a true servant leader who always put the needs of the people above his own," Forcados said.
Mrs. Onoye Ebitimi Beredugo, former Commissioner for Transport, spoke of Ayebakuro’s warmth and accommodating spirit, recalling his ability to bring people together despite their differences. Similarly, Senator Degi Eremienyo, the former Commissioner for Local Government and Rural Development, commended Ayebakuro for his vision and work ethic, describing him as a true Bayelsan who dedicated his life to uplifting his people.
Serving members of the state executive council also took time to honor Ayebakuro’s memory. Mr. Biriyai Dambo SAN, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, expressed admiration for the late commissioner’s professionalism and integrity, while Dr. Gentle Emelah, the Commissioner for Education, praised his dedication to the development of Bayelsa. Dr. Ebieri Jones, the Commissioner for Trade, Industry, and Investment, highlighted Ayebakuro’s role in fostering growth and opportunity within the state.
The special valedictory session was a moment for both personal reflection and public recognition of the late Ayebakuro’s contributions to the state. As Bayelsa State bids farewell to this remarkable public servant, his legacy of selfless service continues to inspire the leaders and citizens of the state. His life reminds us all that the true measure of greatness lies not in accolades or wealth, but in the impact one h as on the lives of others.
