After weeks of uncertainty following the death of Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Bayelsa State has a new deputy governor designate, following the nomination and confirmation of Pastor (Hon.) Peter Pereotubo Akpe by the State House of Assembly
Governor Douye Diri on Tuesday forwarded Akpe’s name to the lawmakers, who approved the nomination shortly after deliberation, bringing an end to months of uncertainty that followed the death of former Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, on Dec. 11, 2025.
Akpe currently serves as Chief of Staff at the Government House, a role in which he has been widely regarded as one of the governor’s closest political allies and a key figure in policy coordination and executive administration. His appointment is seen as a move to maintain continuity within the current administration.
Before becoming Chief of Staff, Akpe represented Sagbama Constituency in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, where he rose to become Majority Leader. During his tenure in the legislature, he was known for sponsoring and supporting executive-backed bills and playing a prominent role in legislative–executive collaboration.
A cleric by calling, Akpe combines political and pastoral leadership, which has earned him influence both within political circles and among faith-based communities in the state. He hails from Ebedebiri community in Sagbama Local Government Area — the same area as his late predecessor — a factor analysts say preserves the existing political zoning arrangement within the state’s power structure.
Observers note that his emergence reflects Governor Diri’s preference for trusted loyalists with deep knowledge of the administration’s workings, especially at a time when stability and policy continuity are considered crucial.
With the Assembly’s confirmation secured, Akpe is expected to be sworn in shortly, formally filling the vacancy in the state’s number-two office and reinforcing the administration’s political structure ahead of upcoming governance priorities.
