God Directed Me To Choose Akpe As Deputy – Gov Diri

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has revealed that he faced intense spiritual pressure while searching for a replacement for his late deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away on December 11, 2025.

Governor Diri made the disclosure on Sunday during a special thanksgiving service organised in honour of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr. Peter Akpe, at the regional headquarters of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) along the Sani Abacha Expressway in Yenagoa.

The governor recounted the difficult period following the demise of his trusted deputy with whom he had worked closely for almost six years, noting that selecting a successor required divine guidance, prayers and careful consideration.

According to him, the responsibility of choosing a new deputy governor placed enormous spiritual pressure on him, but he remained committed to seeking God’s direction throughout the process.

“I faced spiritual pressure picking a new deputy governor after the passing of Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo,” Governor Diri told the congregation.

“While the pressure was on me, I looked out for God’s direction amid the prayers of men of God. At the end of the day, God made Pastor Akpe available through divine direction. Having worked closely with a very hardworking deputy, who passed on, his replacement had to be a perfect match of the former.”

Dr. Peter Akpe was sworn in as Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State on February 25, following his nomination by Governor Diri.

Addressing rumours that his choice was influenced by family ties, the governor dismissed such claims, insisting that competence, character and capacity were the major considerations that informed his decision.

Governor Diri stated that he only recently became aware that Dr. Akpe hailed from his maternal lineage, stressing that this factor played no role in the selection process.

“I did not pay attention to the rumours and speculation because Dr. Akpe has the competence to deliver on the job. I never knew he was my relative until recently I found out he hailed from my maternal home,” he said.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering development across the state, emphasizing that the primary responsibility of government remains improving the lives of the people.

He also described the prevailing peace and security in Bayelsa as invaluable, noting that the state’s stability remains a critical foundation for sustainable development and economic growth.

Governor Diri further called on citizens and the church to continue praying for those entrusted with leadership responsibilities, stressing that prayer remains essential regardless of political differences.

“No matter how bad a government may be, people should never fail to pray for their leaders,” he stated.

In an emotional testimony, Deputy Governor Peter Akpe recounted his remarkable journey from poverty and hardship to occupying one of the highest political offices in the state.

Drawing inspiration from the biblical account of Jacob in Genesis 32, Dr. Akpe described his life as a testimony of God’s grace and faithfulness.

The deputy governor narrated the severe economic challenges his family endured while he was growing up, recalling how his father struggled tirelessly to ensure he received an education despite overwhelming financial constraints.

“I know some of you have heard my story a little bit. The pressure was so much but my dad was determined to send me to school. It took over five hours to go and beg relatives for school fees of ₦110 years ago. Sometimes they would support you with maybe ₦20 or ₦30.
“My dad had to borrow before he paid my school fees. There was a time they brought him to the centre of the community to tie him over unpaid debts until there was intervention,” he said.

Dr. Akpe further revealed that his family lived in a modest zinc house at the waterfront and that some of his siblings sacrificed their own education for a year to support his schooling.

According to him, the turning point came when his family embraced Christianity, leading to gradual transformation and divine favour.

“When we met the Lord some years ago, God started helping us. It was not so smooth as you see it now,” he said, visibly moved by emotion.

The deputy governor described his current position as a testament to God’s faithfulness and evidence that perseverance, faith and hard work can overcome even the most difficult circumstances.

Reflecting on his life’s journey, Akpe said the thanksgiving service offered him an opportunity to appreciate how far God had brought him from humble beginnings to public service.

He expressed profound gratitude to the church leadership and members for organising the event in his honour, noting that he never anticipated such recognition.

He also acknowledged the sacrifices, support and prayers of individuals and groups whose contributions ensured the success of the thanksgiving celebration.

The service attracted government officials, clergy, political associates, family members and well-wishers who joined in celebrating the deputy governor while offering prayers for the continued success of the Bayelsa State administration.

~ Hot News Reporters
Monday, 22, June, 2026