A provincial pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Peter Akpe, was on Wednesday sworn-in as the sixth deputy governor of Bayelsa State.

Mr Akpe is to complete the remaining two years of the current administration following the death of the former deputy governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

Mr Akpe, who is the Pastor in Charge of Bayelsa Province 1 of the RCCG and immediate past Chief of Staff to Governor Douye Diri, was screened and cleared by the Bayelsa State House of Assembly prior to his inauguration.

The Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Matilda Ayemieye, administered the oath of office to Mr Akpe on Wednesday at the State Executive Council Chamber, Government House, Yenagoa.

Eighteen permanent secretaries and one commissioner were also sworn in during the occasion.

Speaking at the event, Governor Douye Diri assured Mr Akpe of his full support and urged him to be guided by the oath of office.

“As feputy governor, be assured of my full support. I believe you will be a reliable confidant in fulfilling the promises we made to the people of this state. Let us remain united and prayerful as we work together for the good and betterment of Bayelsa State.

“I charge you to be mindful of the solemn oath of office and discharge your duties for the betterment of the state. Let your words and actions repose the confidence placed in you by the people, lead with honour and empathy, and prioritise the wellbeing of our state,” Mr Diri said.

The governor also paid tribute to Mr Ewhrudjakpo who died in December 2025.

“The former occupant of this office, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away on Thursday, 11 December 2025, was given a full state burial and has been laid to rest. Let me thank the state and all stakeholders for working together in unity of purpose during that period of mourning,” the governor said.

Mr Diri stated that after what he described as prayerful reflection, he forwarded Mr Akpe’s name to the House of Assembly for consideration,” Mr Diri noted.