Douye Diri: I faced spiritual pressure choosing new Bayelsa deputy gov

Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has revealed that he came under what he described as spiritual pressure before appointing Dr. Peter Akpe as the state’s new deputy governor.

Diri said the pressure followed the death of his former deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, on December 11, 2025.

Akpe was later sworn in on February 25 after what the governor described as a process guided by prayers and divine direction.

Diri spoke on Sunday during a special thanksgiving service held in honour of Akpe at the RCCG regional headquarters on Sani Abacha Expressway, Yenagoa.

According to the governor, choosing a replacement for Ewhrudjakpo was not an easy decision because they had worked closely for nearly six years.

“I faced spiritual pressure picking a new deputy governor after the passing of Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo. While the pressure was on me, I looked out for God’s direction amid the prayers of men of God,” Diri said.

The governor said he needed someone who could fit properly into the position and continue the work of government.

He said his choice of Akpe was based on competence and not personal relationship.

“I did not pay attention to 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.

Diri also described peace and security in Bayelsa as priceless, urging residents and religious leaders to continue praying for those in authority.

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

In his remarks, Akpe recalled his journey from poverty to public office, describing his rise as an act of God’s grace.

The deputy governor said he grew up in hardship, with his family struggling to pay school fees and living in a zinc house at the waterfront.

“There was a time they brought my father to the centre of the community to tie him over unpaid debts until there was intervention,” Akpe said.

He added that his family’s story began to change after they embraced God.

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

Akpe thanked the church for honouring him and said the thanksgiving service was unexpected but deeply appreciated.

The event was attended by Diri’s wife, Dr. Gloria Diri, lawmakers, members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, judicial officers, Christian leaders and traditional rulers.