Governor of Bayelsa State, Duoye Diri, has sworn in Dr. Peter Pereotubo Akpe as the new Deputy Governor of the state, describing his emergence as a historic milestone in the state’s political journey.
Dr. Akpe’s inauguration follows the demise of the immediate past Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away in December.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Diri said his decision to appoint Dr. Akpe, who until his nomination served as Chief of Staff, Government House, was carefully considered and guided by the need for continuity in governance.
“While I took my time to make a replacement for Senator Ewhrudjakpo, the choice of the Chief of Staff, Government House, Dr. Akpe, was guided by the need for continuity, competence, commitment, character and the fear of God,” the governor stated.
He expressed satisfaction with the widespread acceptance of the nomination across the state, noting that extensive consultations were carried out with key stakeholders before arriving at the decision.
“I feel very happy to observe that the nomination and subsequent inauguration of Dr. Akpe has enjoyed wide acceptance, reflecting that we have made a good choice after my due consultation with key stakeholders for a man with distinguished academic excellence and tested administrative acumen over the years,” Diri added.
Congratulating the new Deputy Governor, the governor urged him to discharge his duties with loyalty and a strong sense of responsibility.
“Once again, congratulations to the new Deputy Governor, and I urge him to serve with loyalty and an abiding sense of responsibility for the greater good of Bayelsa State,” he said.
Governor Diri also commended the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere, and members of the legislature for their prompt approval of the nomination. He further appreciated the Chief Judge of the state, Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye, for administering the oath of office and allegiance on Dr. Akpe.
In addition to the deputy governor’s inauguration, the governor announced the swearing-in of Mrs. Joanna Gigi as Commissioner for the Ministry of Women, Children Affairs, Empowerment and Social Development, alongside eighteen new Permanent Secretaries.
Welcoming them as “active players in the Government of Assured Prosperity,” Diri called on the people of Bayelsa State to continue supporting his administration.
He reaffirmed his commitment to delivering impactful governance, stating that his team has resolved “to make a difference in governance through legacy projects and programmes across the state.”
