Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has described his choice of Dr. Peter Akpe as deputy governor as the right decision, saying he is a “round peg in a round hole.”
Speaking at a grand reception organised in honour of Dr. Akpe by the Ebedebiri community in Sagbama Local Government Area, Diri said the turnout at the event confirmed that Akpe enjoys the love and acceptance of his people.
The governor commended the community and the Tarakiri Kingdom for the show of solidarity and unity.
“I believe I made no mistake that I zeroed in on Akpe. Today’s event is a confirmation of my decision in appointing him as my deputy,” Diri said.
“It is one thing to announce the appointment of a person and it is another for that person to be accepted and celebrated.”
He described Akpe as humble, loyal and capable, noting that his story from humble beginnings was proof that God can turn any situation around.
In his response, Dr. Akpe thanked the governor and his community for the honour. “From the depth of my heart, my family and Ebedebiri community, I thank God and the governor for choosing me as his deputy,” he said, adding that working with Diri had taught him patience and accommodation.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Oil, Dr. Heineken Lokpobiri, who chaired the event, said Bayelsa West was proud of Akpe’s performance.
He noted that the deputy governor had served in various capacities, including councillor, Majority Leader in the House of Assembly, Chief of Staff, and now deputy governor.
