The Bayelsa State House of Assembly on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, unanimously approved the nomination of Peter Pereotubo Akpe as the new Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, filling the vacancy created by the death of Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo on December 11, 2025.
Akpe's confirmation followed a rigorous screening process during a plenary session presided over by Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere. Lawmakers described the nominee as a seasoned administrator, devout Christian leader, and experienced public servant whose track record aligns with the administration's vision for continuity, development, and good governance in Bayelsa.
Governor Douye Diri had formally submitted Akpe's name to the Assembly on Monday, February 23, 2026, in line with constitutional provisions requiring legislative approval for the appointment of a deputy governor. The nomination was accompanied by a detailed curriculum vitae highlighting Akpe's extensive career in public service across multiple sectors.
Prior to his nomination, Akpe served as Chief of Staff to Governor Douye Diri, a position he assumed in 2020 following the governor's inauguration. In that role, he coordinated the activities of the governor's office, managed key policy implementations, and acted as a principal liaison between the executive and other arms of government.
Akpe brings a wealth of experience from both the Rivers and Bayelsa State Civil Services, where he held various senior administrative positions. He is a former member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, representing an earlier constituency during the early years of the state's democratic dispensation. During the administration of former Governor Seriake Dickson (2012–2020), Akpe served as a Commissioner in the state executive council, overseeing critical portfolios that contributed to infrastructure development, human capital enhancement, and administrative reforms.
Beyond his political and administrative career, Akpe is an ordained pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), one of Nigeria's largest Pentecostal denominations. His pastoral background has been widely noted by supporters as a source of moral leadership, discipline, and community engagement—qualities they believe will strengthen the executive team's focus on social welfare, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in Bayelsa.
The vacancy in the deputy governorship arose following the sudden passing of Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who died at age 58 after a brief illness. Ewhrudjakpo, a former senator representing Bayelsa West, had been sworn in as deputy governor alongside Diri in February 2020 and was widely respected for his legislative experience, loyalty to the administration, and contributions to education and infrastructure projects.
Akpe's confirmation ensures continuity within the Prosperity Administration, as Governor Diri had emphasized the need for a deputy who shares the same vision of sustainable development, security, and economic diversification in Bayelsa—one of Nigeria's oil-rich yet environmentally challenged Niger Delta states.
Following the Assembly's approval, Akpe is expected to be sworn in within the coming days, after which he will assume full duties as deputy governor, including chairing relevant state committees and representing the governor when required.
Political observers in Yenagoa and across the Niger Delta have described the nomination and swift ratification as a strategic move to maintain stability and momentum ahead of future electoral cycles. Akpe's appointment also reflects the growing influence of faith-based leaders in Bayelsa's political landscape, where religious institutions often play significant roles in community mobilization and moral guidance.
The Bayelsa State Government has yet to announce a replacement for the Chief of Staff position, though sources indicate the governor will soon name a successor to ensure seamless operations in the governor's office.
With Akpe now set to join the executive team, attention turns to how the administration will accelerate ongoing projects in road construction, healthcare delivery, education reform, youth employment, and environmental remediation—key priorities in a state still grappling with the legacy of oil exploration and militancy.
