Dame Julie Okah-Donli, has congratulated Pastor Peter Akpe on his confirmation as Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State.
The Bayelsa State House of Assembly confirmed Akpe on Feb. 24, 2026, following his nomination by Gov. Douye Diri.
This follows the death of the former Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who collapsed and died in his office on Dec. 11, 2025.
Ewhrudjakpo, was buried on Jan. 30, 2026.
Akpe, an ordained pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, previously served as Chief of Staff to the governor before his elevation.
In a message on Thursday, Okah-Donli described his emergence as timely and divinely ordained, urging him to embrace the office with humility, dedication and a strong sense of service.
“On behalf of the Okah-Donli family, I extend my congratulations to you on your well-deserved confirmation as Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State,” she said.
“Your emergence at this critical moment is not by chance. It is a call to higher service and greater responsibility.”
She prayed that God would grant him wisdom, strength and discernment to effectively support Gov. Diri in delivering good governance.
“May you be guided by competence, character, commitment, and the fear of God in every decision you take,” she said, stressing that leadership demands accountability and selfless service.
Okah-Donli said public office was not about personal ambition but service to humanity, urging Akpe to promote unity across political and ethnic divides.
“Bayelsa needs healing, stability, and continuity. You must strengthen harmony and deepen public confidence in government,” she added.
She expressed confidence in his experience in the civil service, legislature, and pastoral ministry, noting that his background prepared him for the assignment.
She advised him to remain steadfast, people-oriented, and transparent. “Listen to the people, prioritise their welfare and let transparency define your tenure,” she said.
Okah-Donli said the appointment signalled continuity and administrative stability, expressing optimism that Akpe would justify the confidence reposed in him.
“May your tenure bring progress, prosperity, and pride to the people of Bayelsa,” she said.
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