By Loureta Samuel, Yenagoa
The Bayelsa State House of Assembly has officially confirmed the nomination of Dr. Peter Akpe as the new Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State.
His confirmation, which followed a unanimous vote by lawmakers, came after thorough deliberation on his credentials and political experience.
Dr. Akpe, who previously served as Chief of Staff to Governor Douye Diri, hails from Sagbama Local Government Area in the Bayelsa West Senatorial District.
His emergence is widely seen as a move that restores the political balance in the state, particularly in response to earlier concerns raised over zoning and equitable representation.
Before his latest appointment, Akpe had served in several strategic administrative and legislative positions. He was Deputy Chief of Staff between 2020 and 2023, later becoming Acting Chief of Staff until February 2024.
His extensive public service career also includes roles as Head of Administration in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Commissioner at the Bayelsa State House of Assembly Service Commission, and two-term member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, where he rose to become Leader of the House from 2011 to 2019.
A seasoned administrator with over two decades of experience in the public sector, Dr. Akpe worked in both the Rivers and Bayelsa State civil services, retiring as an Assistant Director. His wealth of experience in governance and administration has earned him recognition as one of the most competent hands in the Diri-led government.
Beyond politics, Dr. Akpe holds a PhD in Administration and Planning and is a fellow of several professional bodies.
His leadership qualities and technical expertise in governance are expected to contribute significantly to the continuity of the Prosperity Administration’s agenda in Bayelsa State.
Interestingly, Akpe’s personality transcends politics and administration. He is also a 5th Degree Black Belt holder and a certified Kukkiwon coach in Taekwondo.
His passion for youth mentorship and discipline has often been reflected in his advocacy for sports development across Bayelsa communities.
In addition to his professional and athletic achievements, Akpe serves as the Pastor-in-Charge of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Bayelsa Province 1.
He also lectures part-time at the Redeemed Christian Bible College, University of Ede, Osun State—an indication of his deep commitment to faith and education.
Political observers describe his appointment as a strategic step toward stabilizing the Diri administration, especially as Bayelsa prepares for the next phase of its development blueprint.
Many believe that his combination of administrative experience, moral uprightness, and grassroots connection will further strengthen the state’s governance structure.
With his confirmation, Dr. Akpe succeeds the former Deputy Governor and is expected to be sworn in immediately to resume official duties alongside Governor Diri.
The confirmation underscores the Assembly’s confidence in his capacity to serve and deliver on the mandate of the Prosperity Team, as Bayelsans look forward to continued progress and inclusive governance.
