Former Chief of Staff to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr. Peter Akpe has been sworn in as the sixth Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, assuming office to complete the remaining two years of the current administration.
The oath of office was administered on Wednesday by the Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Hon. Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye, at the State Executive Council Chamber, Government House, Yenagoa.
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At the ceremony, one commissioner and 18 permanent secretaries were also sworn in.
Speaking at the event, Governor Diri paid tribute to the late Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away on December 11, 2025, and received a full state burial.
“The former occupant of this office, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away on Thursday, 11 December 2025, was given a full state burial and has been laid to rest. Let me thank the state and all stakeholders for working together in unity of purpose during that period of mourning,” the governor said.
Diri explained that after what he described as prayerful reflection, he forwarded Akpe’s name to the House of Assembly for consideration.
“After prayerfully seeking the face of God, I forwarded the name of Dr. Peter Akpe as 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. After nominating him for this high assignment, the Assembly considered his nomination with the speed of light, and today we are witnessing his swearing-in as required by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended,” he said.
The governor added that his choice was guided by competence, character, and faith.
“I prayed and looked for competency, character and someone with a God-fearing background, and I found that in one person, Peter Akpe, PhD. Let me thank the Assembly for its speedy consideration and clearance,” he added.
Diri assured the new deputy governor of his full support and urged him to be guided by the oath of office.
“As Deputy Governor, be assured of my full support. I believe you will be a reliable confidant in fulfilling the promises we made to the people of this state. Let us remain united and prayerful as we work together for the good and betterment of Bayelsa State.
“I charge you to be mindful of the solemn oath of office and discharge your duties for the betterment of the state. Let your words and actions repose the confidence placed in you by the people, lead with honour and empathy, and prioritise the wellbeing of our state,” the governor said.