Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has explained that his decision to appoint Peter Akpe as the new Deputy Governor was guided by continuity, competence, character, commitment, and what he described as “the fear of God.”
Speaking on Wednesday at the swearing-in ceremony held at the Executive Council Chambers of Government House, Yenagoa, Diri said the choice followed extensive consultations and strict adherence to constitutional provisions.
The appointment comes amid speculations in some quarters that the governor selected his maternal cousin for the role. However, Diri dismissed such insinuations, stressing that his decision was rooted in merit and constitutional responsibility.
Akpe, who previously served as Chief of Staff to the governor, was confirmed by the Bayelsa State House of Assembly on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. He replaces the late former Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away on December 11, 2025. Akpe now becomes the sixth Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State since Nigeria’s return to democratic governance in 1999.
Constitutional Backing
Governor Diri cited Section 191(3)(c) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandates a governor to nominate a replacement deputy governor subject to the approval of the State House of Assembly when the office becomes vacant. He also referenced Section 193(1), which empowers a governor to assign responsibilities to the deputy governor at his discretion.
“After prayerfully seeking the face of God, I forwarded the name of Dr Peter Akpe to the House of Assembly. The Assembly considered his nomination with speed, and today we witness his swearing-in as required by the Constitution,” Diri said.
The governor commended the Speaker and members of the House of Assembly for their swift approval, describing legislative cooperation as vital to the administration’s stability and progress.
He urged the new deputy governor to remain faithful to his oath of office and assured him of full support in delivering on the administration’s promises to the people.
“I charge you to discharge your duties with integrity and empathy, always mindful that good governance translates directly into the prosperity of our state,” he said.
Chief Judge’s Charge
The oath of office and allegiance was administered by the Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Matilda Ayemieye, who expressed confidence in Akpe’s capacity to serve effectively.
She urged him to uphold the Constitution and justify the trust reposed in him by the people of the state.
Other Appointments
The ceremony also featured the swearing-in of Joanna Gigi as Commissioner for Women, Children Affairs, Empowerment and Social Development. She replaces the late Elizabeth Bidei, who died on December 30, 2024.
In addition, 18 Permanent Secretaries were inaugurated. They include Awana Raymond, Egbuson Amanda, Ogregade Ileimokumo, Josephine Ketebu-Thompson, Burutolu Samuel, Bamotei Zachaeus Anne, Dagogo Edmunson, Enuma Charles, Salbot Owil, Dr Jones Stow, Pere Efeke, Doyowei Pulotua, Toloko Sylvester, Goodluck Ede-Alakere, Torutein Ovienadu, Ogbara Fanmene, Vincent Jonathan, and Cole James.
Governor Diri emphasised that their appointments were strictly merit-based, following rigorous assessments, and free from political interference.
Describing the civil service as the “bedrock and engine room of governance,” he urged the new appointees to uphold professionalism, transparency, and integrity in the discharge of their duties.
“With that achievement comes profound responsibility. Good governance at this level translates directly into the prosperity of our dear state,” the governor stated.
He further called on Bayelsans to support the new appointees as the administration continues efforts toward stability, institutional strengthening, and sustainable development in the state.
