March 01, (THEWILL) — Although the Constitution confers no specific authority on Deputy Governors, their presence in government fulfils some political calculations as they represent constituencies and thereby make room for political inclusiveness.
Newly sworn-in Deputy governor of Bayelsa state, Dr. Peter Akpe hails from Sagbama Local Government Area in Bayelsa West Senatorial District and by his appointment has restored political balance and allays concerns raised by some stakeholders in Bayelsa West Senatorial District over zoning issues in the state.
Dr Akpe and a female law maker from the same constituency, Hon Ebizi Ndiomu – Brown topped speculations about the likely replacement for late workaholic Deputy governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo. Akpe’s appointment has not only filled a vacuum created by Ewhrudjakpo’s demise but also restore calm to the government. His predecessor declined to defect with Governor Diri to the APC and thus created some tension within the government.
Akpe’s confirmation followed his screening by the State House of Assembly during plenary in Yenagoa, where lawmakers unanimously endorsed his nomination after reviewing his credentials, experience and vision for the state.
Rt. Hon Abraham Ingobere, Speaker of the Bayelsa Assembly announced the confirmation after a voice vote by members, noting that the nominee satisfied constitutional requirements and demonstrated capacity to support the governor in advancing the administration’s agenda.
At his inauguration last week, Dr. Akpe pledged a tenure anchored on humility, service and collective responsibility, declaring that his new office is a call to serve the people rather than a platform for personal glory. Pastor Akpe stated this during a reception ceremony held at the D.S.P Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall shortly after his swearing-in at Government House, Yenagoa last week.
Addressing a large gathering of political leaders, church representatives, family members and well-wishers from across the country, the Deputy Governor emphasised that leadership must be guided by faith, accountability and genuine concern for the people’s welfare. According to him, public office should not be seen as a reward, but as a burden of trust that demands sacrifice, discipline and openness to counsel. He urged the Christian community and citizens at large to remain steadfast in prayer and constructive engagement, noting that governance thrives when leaders and followers work in unity.
“This responsibility did not come by my own making. It is a privilege to serve Bayelsa, and I will do so with the fear of God, respect for the people and commitment to what is right”, Akpe said. The Ebedebiri-Sagbama-born deputy governor, flanked by his wife, Dr Favour Akpe, clarified that he did not lobby for the position, describing his appointment as an act of God.
Pastor Akpe expressed gratitude to Governor Douye Diri, the House of Assembly and other stakeholders for their confidence in him and promised to contribute meaningfully to the administration’s vision for development. He assured Bayelsans that his focus would be on supporting policies that improve livelihoods and strengthen institutions, noting that the overwhelming support he has received from Bayelsans since his appointment is a reminder of the expectations placed on him.
He said, “I owe this state more commitment, more listening and more service. This office is not mine alone; it belongs to the people who believe in a better Bayelsa.
“But let me make it clear that I have not gone to lobby for any position, including this one. Most of the influential Bayelsa (big) men are here. If I had ever told you to lobby for me, please say it here. In my life, it has always been God touching people to do things for me. So, I’ve always said Lord, just do your own.
“Yes, some people came to me saying, what are you doing about this? and I said, let the will of God be done. You don’t go into something God has not allowed or prepared you for.
“So, I want to give the Almighty God the glory. I also want to thank His Excellency, the Governor, for this massive privilege. It is a privilege for the Governor to allow you to work with him and also see you good enough for higher responsibility. I also sincerely thank the House of Assembly, my constituency.”
Speaking as the Chairman of the occasion, former Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Bayelsa Elders Council, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (Retired), thanked Governor Douye Diri for appointing Dr Peter Akpe as Deputy Governor, describing the decision as a wise and timely choice.
He prayed for God’s continued blessings upon Akpe and urged Bayelsans to support the new deputy governor and the state government to achieve sustainable and measurable development. In their separate goodwill messages, the Secretary to the State Government, Nimibofa Ayawei and the Member representing Ogbia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Mitema Obordor, congratulated Dr Akpe on behalf of the people of Bayelsa Central and East Senatorial Districts.
They described him as a man of high competence and impeccable character with deep knowledge of governance and prayed to God to grant him wisdom and strength in the discharge of his duties, pledging their support for his success. Also speaking, former Deputy Governor, Chief Peremoboere Ebebi, who represented Bayelsa West Senatorial District, said he was not surprised by Dr Akpe’s steady rise in public service, noting that his capacity and competence distinguished him.
He recalled Akpe’s successful tenure as Head of Administration under his leadership and expressed confidence that Governor Diri’s choice would foster a productive partnership in steering the affairs of the state. He was appointed in March 2024, and previously served as Deputy Chief of Staff (2020-2023), Acting Chief of Staff (2023-Feb 2024), Head of Administration, and member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly. Dr Akpe has worked in the Civil Services of both Rivers and Bayelsa States at different times for over 20 years and retired as an Assistant Director.
He also served as Head of Administration, Office of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State (2006–2007), Commissioner with the Bayelsa State House of Assembly Service Commission (2008–2011), a two-term member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly and was Leader of the House between 2011 and 2019,where he represented his constituency qualitatively,where it not for zoning arrangements,he would have returned for a third tenure.
Dr Peter Akpe is a fellow of several professional bodies, a 5th Degree Black Belt and Certified Kukiwon Coach in Taekwondo, and is currently the Pastor-in-Charge of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Bayelsa Province 1 and a part-time Lecturer with the Redeemed Christian Bible College, University of Ede, Osun State.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
