Dr. Peter Akpe has been sworn in as the sixth Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State following his clearance by the Bayelsa State House of Assembly.
The swearing-in ceremony, held on Wednesday at the Executive Council Chamber in Yenagoa, also featured the inauguration of four commissioners and 18 permanent secretaries, signaling a broader restructuring within the state’s executive arm.
Dr. Akpe will serve out the remaining two years of the current administration.
Speaking at the event, Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, offered prayers for the repose of the late Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away on December 11 and was accorded a full state burial.
“The former occupant of this office, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away on Thursday, 11 December, was given a full state burial and has been laid to rest. Let me thank the state and stakeholders for working together in purpose during the demise,” Diri stated.
The governor disclosed that Akpe’s nomination followed extensive prayers and consultations. According to him, the decision was guided by divine direction and careful consideration.
“After prayerfully seeking the face of God, I forwarded the name of Dr. Peter Akpe as the deputy governor to the House of Assembly. If you look at our dressing today, it is divinely instructive; we never planned to wear similar outfits today. This is divinely instructive,” he said.
Diri commended the House of Assembly for what he described as a swift confirmation process carried out in accordance with the Constitution of Nigeria as amended.
He further explained that his choice of Akpe was based on competence, character, and integrity.
“I prayed and looked for competency, character, and someone who was God-fearing, and I found that in one person called Peter Akpe, PhD. Let me thank the Assembly for your speedy consideration and clearance,” the governor said.
Assuring the new deputy governor of his full support, Diri expressed confidence that Akpe would serve as a reliable confidant in delivering on the administration’s promises to the people.
Charging him to remain faithful to his oath of office, the governor urged him to discharge his duties with honour, empathy, and commitment to the welfare of Bayelsa State.
The ceremony underscored a renewed phase in the state’s leadership structure, as the administration moves forward following the loss of its former deputy governor.
