According to a report by the Punch on Thursday, February 12, 2026, the process of selecting a successor to the late Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo has triggered intense political maneuvering in Bayelsa State, with stakeholders divided over whether the replacement should emerge from Sagbama Local Government Area or reflect broader representation within Bayelsa West Senatorial District.
Ewhrudjakpo's death in December 2025 has opened contentious questions about the durability of the state's informal power-sharing arrangements and the timelines for filling constitutional vacancies.
Former Governor and incumbent Senator Seriake Dickson has moved to dispel speculation that he is exerting influence over the succession process.
Speaking on his relationship with Governor Douye Diri, Dickson firmly stated, "I have not put Diri under any pressure and will remain so for the remaining two years.
He emphasized that despite his role in producing the current administration, he has consistently refrained from interference or seeking favours throughout the past six years and intends to maintain that approach until the end of the tenure.
His remarks sought to clarify that the constitutional authority to nominate a successor rests exclusively with the governor.
Several candidates have emerged in the lobbying corridors, each bringing distinct geopolitical calculations. Sagbama-born Chief of Staff Dr Peter Akpe represents continuity from the late deputy governor's immediate constituency; retired permanent secretary Christopher Ewhrudjakpo carries the weight of family legacy; Speaker Abraham Ingobere from Brass introduces a coastal axis consideration; and APC state chairman Dr Dennis Otiotio from Nembe represents an unexpected cross-party dimension.
The diversity of names reflects the competing interests seeking to shape the governor's eventual nomination.
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