The Government of Delta State, South-South Nigeria, has called for calm following the sudden death of one of the three senators from the state.

Chief Akpo Pius Ewherido was deputy speaker of the Delta State of Assembly before his election as the Senator representing Delta Central in April 2011. He died today at the National Hospital, Abuja, after a brief illness, according to an announcement by the Delta State Government.

While commiserating with the late Senator’s family, “Government advises Deltans, particularly members of his Constituency to remain calm,” said Secretary to the State Government, Comrade Ovuozourie S. Macaulay, in the special announcement.

President Goodluck Jonathan and other political leaders have also offered their condolences even as Ewherido’s colleagues are expressing shock.

Ewherido, who turned 50 on May 4, obtained a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from Obafemi Awolowo Univeristy, Ife, and aB in Law from the University of Benin. He was Vice-Chairman of the Senate Marine Transport Committee and a member of the Trade and Investment Committee. He was said to have suffered stroke after suddenly collapsing three days ago while making a phone call in his Abuja residence.

•Photo shows late Senator Ewherido.