Diri Hails Akpe’s Performance, Says Deputy Has Justified His Appointment

Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has said his decision to appoint Dr Peter Akpe as deputy governor has been justified by Akpe’s performance and acceptance by the people.

Diri stated this on Sunday at a reception organised by the Ebedebiri community in Sagbama Local Government Area to honour Akpe.

The governor said the large turnout at the event demonstrated the deputy governor’s popularity and acceptance, describing the reception as a show of love, unity and solidarity.

Diri said he was convinced that he made the right choice in selecting Akpe as his deputy, citing his humility, loyalty, competence and connection with his community.

“I believe I made no mistake that I zeroed in on Akpe. Today’s event confirms my decision to appoint him as my deputy,” Diri said.

The governor urged the Ebedebiri community to remain united and support initiatives that would improve residents' lives.

He said Akpe’s rise from a humble background to his current position demonstrated that there was hope for people regardless of their circumstances.

Responding, Akpe thanked Diri for the confidence reposed in him and the opportunity to serve as deputy governor.

He said working with the governor had taught him lessons in patience, accommodation and peaceful leadership.

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, who chaired the event, also commended Diri for choosing Akpe as his deputy.

Lokpobiri described Akpe as an experienced politician and public servant, noting that he had served as a councillor, administrator, Majority Leader of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly and Chief of Staff to the Governor before becoming deputy governor.

He said the people of Bayelsa West Senatorial District were proud of Akpe’s performance and pledged continued support for the Diri administration.

The Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere, and other political leaders at the event also described Akpe as competent, principled, humble and open-minded.