Bayelsa CJ swears in new deputy governor

Diri charges Akpe, new appointees to serve with integrity

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From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa

The Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Matilda Ayemieye, on Wednesday swore in Dr Peter Akpe as the new deputy governor of the state.

The ceremony took place inside the Executive Council Chamber of the Government House in Yenagoa.

Dr Akpe, until his nomination by Governor Douye Diri and subsequent clearance by the state House of Assembly, was the Chief of Staff, Government House.

He became Bayelsa’s sixth deputy governor under the democratic dispensation from 1999, following the sudden demise of his predecessor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, on December 11, 2025.

While administering the oath of office and the oath of allegiance, Justice Ayemieye urged the new deputy governor to ensure that his words and actions serve as a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed in him by the governor.

Governor Diri, while delivering his charge to his new deputy, said his choice was guided by the need for continuity, competence, commitment, character and the fear of God.

He expressed confidence that Akpe will be a dependable partner in the Bayelsa project and urged people of the state to accord him the support needed to enable him succeed in his role.

Governor Diri also commended the Speaker and members of the House of Assembly for the speedy approval of his nomination, saying the support of the state legislature has been crucial to the success story of his administration.

Also sworn in were a new Commissioner for Women, Children Affairs, Empowerment and Social Development, Madam Joanna Gigi, and 18 permanent secretaries.

Madam Gigi filled the vacancy created by the demise of the former commissioner, Mrs Elizabeth Bidei, on December 30, 2024.

Governor Diri urged the new appointees to discharge their duties with utmost integrity and transparency and to be mindful that good governance translates directly into the prosperity of the state.

He said the civil service throughout the world was the bedrock and the engine room of sound governance and progress.

He said: “I am pleased to affirm that we place confidence in our own civil service here in Bayelsa State. I deem it a fortunate coincidence that we are swearing in a commissioner alongside the permanent secretaries.

“Permit me to underscore that commissioners serve as my representatives at the ministry level and as such, their leadership should not be questioned provided they act within the legal mandate.”

While urging Bayelsans to support the new appointees, he stated that there was no political interference in their choice as they were picked on merit.

“Your appointments followed very rigorous assessments, as you all can attest. This is a practical demonstration of your own competence. It is exemplified in your professionalism, dedication and ability.