Dr Peter Akpe has been sworn in as the sixth Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, completing the remaining two years of the current administration after receiving clearance from the Bayelsa State House of Assembly on Tuesday.
The swearing-in ceremony was held on Wednesday at the Bayelsa State Executive Council Chamber in Yenagoa. The event also featured the inauguration of four commissioners and 14 permanent secretaries.
During the oath-taking ceremony, the State Governor, Douye Diri, offered prayers for the repose of the late Deputy Governor, who he said had been called to glory and accorded a befitting burial.
He urged the new Deputy Governor to remain conscious of the solemnity of the Oath of Office and to carry out his responsibilities with the fear of God.
“The former occupant of this office, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away on Thursday, 11 December, was given a full state burial and has been laid to rest. Let me thank the state and stakeholders for working together in purpose during the demise.
“After prayerfully seeking the face of God, I forwarded the name of Dr Peter Akpe as the Deputy Governor to the House of Assembly. If you look at our dressing today, it is divinely instructive; we never planned to wear a similar outfit. After nominating him for this high assignment, the Assembly considered his nomination with the speed of light and today we witness the swearing-in as required by the Constitution of Nigeria as amended.
“I prayed and looked for competency, character and someone who was God-fearing, and I found that in one person called Peter Akpe, PhD. Let me thank the Assembly for your speedy consideration and clearance.
“As the Deputy Governor, be assured of my full support. I believe you will be a reliable confidant in fulfilling the promises made to the people of the state. Let us be united and prayerful as we work together for the good and betterment of the state.
“I charge you to be mindful of the solemn oath of office, discharge these duties for the betterment of the state, and let the words you speak repose the confidence imposed on you by the people of the state to lead with honour and empathy and make the well-being of our state paramount.”
The ceremony also saw the swearing-in of 18 permanent secretaries and four commissioners as part of efforts to strengthen the administration.