Responsibilities of the office
Assigned state responsibilities
Carries out state government business assigned by the governor. This can include administration of a department, programme coordination and representing the governor at official engagements.
Executive coordination
Participates with the governor and commissioners in meetings to consider policy, coordinate executive work and advise the governor.
Acting governor
Performs the governor�s functions when the constitutional procedure for acting governorship applies, including a formal written transfer during vacation or inability to discharge duties. The Constitution also provides a procedure involving the House of Assembly if a required declaration is not transmitted within 21 days.
Succession
Assumes the office of governor when it becomes vacant in the circumstances set out by the Constitution, including death, resignation or removal.
Limits of the office
The deputy is not a separate head of the state executive. Powers and assignments remain subject to the Constitution, legislation and oversight by the appropriate institutions.
About Peter Pereotubo Akpe
Peter Pereotubo Akpe is Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, serving with Governor Douye Diri. He was sworn in on 25 February 2026 following the death of the previous deputy governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, in December 2025.
Background
Akpe is from Ebedebiri in Sagbama Local Government Area. His career includes civil service, membership and leadership of the state House of Assembly, and executive appointments. He served as Chief of Staff before his nomination as deputy governor. His academic background includes a doctorate in Educational Management and Planning from the University of Port Harcourt.
Appointment and duties
Diri nominated Akpe and the state House of Assembly approved the nomination. The appointment filled a vacancy under the constitutional procedure; it was not a separate statewide election. His responsibilities include the state business assigned to him by the governor.
Sources and verification
Official background and verification 1
