- Peter Pereotubo Akpe was confirmed as Bayelsa State’s Deputy Governor during plenary sessions, following the passing of former Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo
- Akpe, a former Majority Leader and Chief of Staff to Governor Douye Diri, holds a PhD in Administration and Planning and has served in multiple key state government roles
- Lawmakers and stakeholders expressed confidence that Akpe’s experience would provide continuity and strong leadership in the state’s executive arm
The Bayelsa State House of Assembly has confirmed the appointment of Peter Pereotubo Akpe as the state’s new Deputy Governor. The confirmation came during plenary sessions held on Tuesday.
Akpe, who was accompanied to the Assembly complex by supporters chanting congratulatory slogans, was formally recognised for his previous service as the former Majority Leader of the House. In line with parliamentary tradition, lawmakers asked him to take a bow before leaving the chamber.
A seasoned administrator and politician, Akpe previously served as Chief of Staff to Governor Douye Diri prior to his nomination. He holds a PhD in Administration and Planning from the University of Port Harcourt and has served in several key roles within the Bayelsa State Government, including Head of Administration in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Commissioner in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly Service Commission, and Leader of the House.
Akpe has also held positions as Deputy Chief of Staff and Acting Chief of Staff at the Bayelsa State Government House. Outside public service, he is a pastor and a part-time lecturer at the Redeemed Christian Bible College. He hails from the Ebedebiri community in Sagbama Local Government Area, the same constituency as his late predecessor.
The appointment follows the passing of the former Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who collapsed in his office on 11 December 2025 while performing official duties. Ewhrudjakpo was initially admitted to the emergency unit of the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, transferred to the Intensive Care Unit, and later flown abroad for advanced medical treatment, where he was pronounced dead.
Lawmakers and stakeholders have expressed confidence that Akpe’s extensive administrative experience and academic background will enable him to provide strong leadership and continuity in the state’s executive arm. His confirmation marks a significant step in stabilising the Bayelsa State government and ensuring the seamless delivery of governance to the people.