Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has commended the performance of his deputy governor, Dr. Peter Akpe, saying his conduct and contributions to the administration have justified the confidence reposed in him at the time of his appointment.
Diri, who spoke while assessing the progress made since Akpe assumed office, expressed satisfaction with the deputy governor’s commitment to his responsibilities and his contribution to the development agenda of the state.
The governor had appointed Akpe as deputy governor following the death of his predecessor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who died in December 2025. Akpe, who previously served as Diri’s Chief of Staff, was confirmed by the Bayelsa State House of Assembly and sworn into office on February 25, 2026. (Punch Newspapers)
At the time of the appointment, Diri said his choice was guided by considerations including competence, character, commitment, continuity and the fear of God. He also described Akpe as someone capable of serving as a reliable partner in advancing the administration’s programmes. (Punch Newspapers)
The governor’s latest assessment indicates that Akpe has continued to meet the expectations attached to the office. His experience within the state government, particularly his previous role as Chief of Staff, has also provided him with an understanding of the administration’s policies and priorities.
Before becoming deputy governor, Akpe had held several public positions, including serving in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, where he rose to the position of Majority Leader. He also served in various administrative capacities within the state government before becoming Chief of Staff to Diri. (Punch Newspapers)
Diri’s commendation is significant coming only months after Akpe’s elevation to the number-two position in the state, a move that initially generated public discussion over the governor’s choice. The governor had, however, consistently defended the appointment, insisting that competence and capacity were central to his decision. (Punch Newspapers)
Speaking previously about the circumstances surrounding the appointment, Diri said he had faced considerable pressure before settling on Akpe. He explained that he sought divine guidance and consulted with religious leaders before arriving at his decision.
According to the governor, Akpe’s competence and ability to work effectively within the administration were more important considerations than speculation surrounding their personal relationship. (Tribune Online)
Since assuming office, Akpe has been expected to complement the governor’s efforts in implementing government policies, maintaining contact with stakeholders and contributing to the administration’s development programmes.
His appointment also followed the constitutional requirement that a governor nominate and, with the approval of the state House of Assembly, appoint a new deputy governor when the office becomes vacant. (Punch Newspapers)
Diri has repeatedly urged Akpe to discharge his duties with integrity, empathy and a strong sense of responsibility, stressing that the ultimate objective of government must remain the welfare and prosperity of Bayelsans.
The governor had also assured his deputy of his full support, describing him as a dependable partner in fulfilling the administration’s commitments to the people.
Akpe’s elevation has therefore placed him at the centre of the state’s executive leadership at a crucial period, with the administration expected to sustain its development programmes while addressing the needs of communities across Bayelsa.
For Diri, the deputy governor’s performance so far provides an indication that the decision to appoint him was well considered. The governor’s latest commendation is also likely to strengthen confidence within the administration as both men continue to work together on the state’s development agenda.
As the Diri administration enters the latter phase of its tenure, attention will increasingly focus on the ability of the governor and his deputy to maintain cohesion, deliver on existing commitments and consolidate the administration’s achievements.
With Diri publicly expressing satisfaction with Akpe’s performance, the deputy governor is expected to sustain the momentum and continue to justify the confidence placed in him by the governor and the people of Bayelsa State.