The Bayelsa State House of Assembly on Tuesday approved Governor Douye Diri’s nominee, Dr. Peter Akpe, as the new deputy governor.
Prior to his nomination and confirmation, Akpe served as the Governor’s Chief of Staff. Reports indicate that he may be sworn in today at the Exco Chamber of the Government House.
The appointment follows the death of the former deputy governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who collapsed in office on December 11, 2025, and was buried on January 30, 2026. Governor Diri had previously stated that no action would be taken on appointing a replacement until after the burial.
Akpe, a former majority leader of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, was swiftly approved by lawmakers amid cheers and congratulations. He arrived at the Assembly complex accompanied by supporters.
A seasoned politician and administrator, Akpe holds a Ph.D. in Administration and Planning from the University of Port Harcourt. His public service experience spans several key roles, including Head of Administration in the Office of the Deputy Governor (2006–2007), Service Commission Member (2008–2011), Leader of the House (2011–2019), Deputy Chief of Staff, and Chief of Staff at Government House (2020–2024). He is also a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God and a part-time lecturer at Redeemer’s University, Ede.
Reacting to the appointment, Mr. David West, Chairman of the Civil Liberty Organisation in Bayelsa State, noted: “Finally, the Governor has made his preferred choice public. It is within his right to choose anyone as his deputy. The question is the quality of the person. If he is qualified to do the job, there is no problem. But on the issue of bringing in a relative, is governance now a family affair? I hope this does not set a bad precedent for future public officers.”
Mr. Johnny Tovie, State Chairman of the Africa Development Party, said, “The governor chose the individual he wants to work with. The most important issue is how the state will be governed. Will it benefit the common man and ensure effective administration? If so, then the choice is justified.”
State PDP Publicity Secretary, Ebiye Ogoli, commended the appointment, saying: “The new deputy governor is an experienced administrator. The governor has the right to nominate his deputy, and Dr. Akpe understands governance. He is one of the pillars of the current administration, and his appointment supports the continued development of the state.”
