Governor Douye Diri has nominated his Chief of Staff, Hon. Peter Akpe, as the next Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, in what is being described as a strategic realignment within the state’s executive arm.
The nomination has already scaled its first legislative hurdle, as Akpe was screened by the Bayelsa State House of Assembly on Tuesday, signalling progress in the confirmation process.
Akpe, a native of Ebedebiri Federated Community in Sagbama Local Government Area, currently serves as Chief of Staff to the Governor — a position in which he has overseen coordination of government activities and policy implementation.
Announcing the development, sources within Government House said the governor’s decision reflects “confidence in Akpe’s administrative capacity and loyalty to the administration’s vision.”
Political analysts say the move may be aimed at consolidating internal cohesion within the government, given Akpe’s close working relationship with Governor Diri and his familiarity with the administration’s policy direction.
The nomination comes at a critical time in the state’s political landscape, with stakeholders closely watching developments within the executive branch.
Under the provisions of the law, the nominee’s confirmation requires the approval of the State House of Assembly following screening and deliberation.
If confirmed, Akpe will assume office as Deputy Governor, becoming the second-highest ranking official in the state’s executive structure.
