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I faced pressure picking new deputy, Diri
๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria /Elections & Politics

I faced pressure picking new deputy, Diri

From Vanguard · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri revealed he experienced "spiritual pressure" before appointing Dr. Peter Akpe as his new deputy governor.
  • Akpe's appointment followed the death of the previous deputy governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, on December 11, 2025.
  • The governor's statement suggests a significant and perhaps challenging decision-making process for the deputy governor role.

Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has disclosed that the selection of his new deputy governor was preceded by intense "spiritual pressure." Dr. Peter Akpe was ultimately chosen to fill the position, which became vacant following the death of Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo on December 11, 2025.

Governor Diri's remarks indicate that the process of choosing a successor was not straightforward. The mention of "spiritual pressure" suggests a decision influenced by factors beyond typical political considerations, hinting at a deeply personal or perhaps community-driven deliberation.

The appointment of a deputy governor is a critical decision for any state administration, impacting governance and political stability. In Bayelsa State, the circumstances surrounding this appointment, particularly the governor's personal account of the pressure involved, add a unique dimension to the political landscape.

While the article does not elaborate on the nature of the spiritual pressure or the specific challenges faced, it highlights the governor's candidness about the weight of the decision. This revelation offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes considerations that can shape leadership appointments in Nigeria.

spiritual pressure

โ€” Governor Douye DiriDescribing the influence he felt before selecting his new deputy governor.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Vanguard in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.