I Faced Spiritual Pressure” — Gov. Diri Opens Up On Choice Of New Deputy

According to Ireporter Online, Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has revealed that he encountered what he described as “spiritual pressure” during the process of selecting a new deputy governor following the death of Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo on December 11, 2025.

  recalls that Peter Akpe was sworn in on February 25, approximately two months after the passing of Ewhrudjakpo.

Speaking on Sunday at a special thanksgiving service held in honour of Akpe at the RCCG regional headquarters along the Sani Abacha Expressway in Yenagoa, Governor Diri explained that his decision was guided by divine direction and sustained prayers.

The governor said the selection process was influenced by spiritual considerations as well as consultations, stressing that he relied on what he believed to be God’s guidance. He further noted that competence, rather than rumours or perceived personal ties, played a central role in Akpe’s emergence.

Diri stated that he initially gave no attention to speculation about familial relations, adding that he later discovered Akpe hailed from his maternal hometown. He maintained that the appointment was based strictly on merit and capacity to deliver.

The governor also commended the relative peace and improved security situation in Bayelsa State, describing it as invaluable, while urging citizens and religious leaders to continue offering prayers for those in authority. He emphasized that public prayer remains essential regardless of the performance level of any administration.

In his remarks, Akpe recounted his humble background, describing a childhood marked by financial hardship, including difficulty paying school fees and living in a zinc structure along the waterfront. He also recalled a moment when his father was publicly humiliated over unpaid debts before intervention came.

Akpe noted that his family’s fortunes began to change following a spiritual transformation, adding that his current position as deputy governor reflects what he described as divine grace and gradual upliftment over time.