Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Dr Peter Akpe, has commended the chiefs, elders, women and youths of Yenezue-Gene Community in Yenagoa Local Government Area for conducting a peaceful election to select a new paramount ruler.
Akpe gave the commendation on Thursday while receiving a report on the chieftaincy election from the Obenibe of Epie Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, King Malla Sasime, at the Government House in Yenagoa.
The deputy governor praised King Sasime and other stakeholders in Epie Kingdom for their roles in ensuring that the election was conducted peacefully.
He particularly recognised the monarch’s commitment to peace and development, describing his involvement in the Yenezue-Gene election as evidence of his ability to successfully handle responsibilities entrusted to him.
Akpe assured the Epie monarch that the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs would soon begin the process of issuing the Certificate of Recognition and Staff of Office to the newly elected paramount ruler ahead of his official coronation.
“I want to sincerely appreciate His Majesty as always, and the committee for doing a good job. This is another testimony of your capability to deliver on assignments,” Akpe said.
He added that with peace restored to the community, the relevant ministry would move quickly to process the necessary documents for the new traditional ruler.
Speaking earlier, King Malla Sasime disclosed that the Yenezue-Gene Chieftaincy Election was held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, in a peaceful atmosphere and in accordance with the directive of the state government.
The monarch described the election as credible, transparent and hitch-free, announcing Chief Fortune Magnus as the paramount ruler-elect and Chief Nothing-Bad Dagana as his deputy.
Sasime also commended the other contestants, including Chief Fabiri Manager, Chief Ozekieh Oyaba and Chief Egba James, for displaying sportsmanship and accepting the outcome of the election.
He urged all contestants and community stakeholders to cooperate with the new leadership to promote peace and development in Yenezue-Gene.
According to Sasime, the traditional stool had remained vacant for several years, making the successful election a significant step towards restoring good governance and stability in the community.
“His Excellency, the Deputy Governor asked me and my people to go and conduct the election of the paramount ruler of Yenezue-Gene Community. The stool has been vacant for some years. So, the election was conducted on the 22nd of August, 2026,” he said.
He expressed appreciation to the Bayelsa State Government for creating an enabling environment for the election and supporting the process.
Sasime said the peaceful outcome had resolved the longstanding leadership vacuum and expressed optimism that lasting peace and effective governance would return to Yenezue-Gene Community.
