Pastor Peter Akpe, the recently sworn-in deputy governor of Bayelsa State, has promised a term based on service, humility, and group responsibility, saying that his position is a vocation to serve the people rather than a stage for personal glory.
At a reception ceremony in the DSP Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall at Government House, Yenagoa, he made the pledge.
Pastor Akpe emphasized that leadership must be driven by faith, accountability, and sincere care for the welfare of the people while speaking to a sizable assembly of political officials, religious leaders, family members, and well-wishers from all across the nation.
“public office should not be seen as a reward but as a burden of trust that demands sacrifice, discipline and openness to counsel,” he said.
He charged the Christian community and citizens at large to remain steadfast in prayer and constructive engagement, noting that governance thrives when leaders and followers work in unity.
“This responsibility did not come by my own making,” Pastor Akpe said. “It is a privilege to serve Bayelsa, and I will do so with the fear of God, respect for the people and commitment to what is right.”
With his wife, Dr. Favour Akpe, at his side, the deputy governor stressed that he did not advocate for the job, calling his nomination an act of God.
Akpe pledged to make a significant contribution to the administration’s development strategy and thanked Governor Douye Diri, the House of Assembly, and other stakeholders for their faith in him.
The great support he has gotten from Bayelsans since his appointment serves as a reminder of the expectations put on him, he said, assuring them that his focus would be on supporting policies that build institutions and enhance livelihoods.
“I owe this state more commitment, more listening, and more service. This office is not mine alone; it belongs to the people who believe in a better Bayelsa.
“But let me make it clear that I have not gone to lobby for any position, including this one. Most of the influential Bayelsa (big) men are here. If I had ever told you to lobby for me, please say so here. In my life, it has always been God touching people to do things for me. So I’ve always said, “Lord, just do your own.”
“Yes, some people came to me saying, ‘What are you doing about this? And I said, let the will of God be done. You don’t go into something God has not allowed or prepared you for.
“So, I want to give the Almighty God the glory. I also want to thank His Excellency, the governor, for this massive privilege. It is a privilege for the governor to allow you to work with him and also see you as good enough for higher responsibility. I also sincerely thank the House of Assembly, my constituency.”
In his capacity as the event’s chairman, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (retired), a former deputy governor and chairman of the Bayelsa Elders Council, commended Diri for selecting Akpe as deputy governor, calling it a prudent and timely move.
In addition to asking Bayelsans to back the state administration and the new deputy governor in their efforts to achieve sustainable and quantifiable progress, he prayed for God to continue blessing Akpe.
On behalf of the residents of the Bayelsa Central and East Senatorial Districts, Nimibofa Ayawei, the Secretary to the State Government, and Mitema Obordor, the Member of the House of Representatives representing the Ogbia Federal Constituency, congratulated Dr. Akpe in their respective goodwill greetings.
They pledged their support for his achievement and prayed to God for wisdom and strength to carry out his tasks, describing him as a man of great competence, perfect character, and profound knowledge of government.
Speaking as well, Chief Peremoboere Ebebi, the former deputy representative of the Bayelsa West Senatorial District, stated that he was not shocked by Dr. Akpe’s consistent ascent in the public sector and that his ability and proficiency set him apart.
Recalling Akpe’s excellent term as Head of Administration under his direction, he conveyed his confidence that Governor Diri’s selection would promote a fruitful collaboration in directing the state’s activities.
