Bayelsa Police Boss Mobilizes Communities Against Spate of Cult Killings

The Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Saka Adewale, has called upon traditional rulers, youth leaders, and Community Development Committees (CDCs) to join forces with the police in tackling cult-related violence and preventing further fatalities across the state. Commissioner Adewale issued this appeal during a meeting held on Friday in Yenagoa, following a recent surge in cult activities that have tragically claimed lives in various communities.

A press release, distributed on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Muhammed, stated that the gathering was organized to bolster community partnership and address developing security challenges. The Commissioner highlighted the crucial role of traditional rulers, describing them as the 'eyes of their communities.' He urged them to collaborate closely with youth leaders and CDC representatives to pinpoint potential threats, discourage acts of reprisal, and furnish timely intelligence to the police.

“Traditional rulers are the eyes of their communities,” CP Adewale emphasized. “We need your cooperation, alongside youth leaders and CDC representatives, to identify potential threats and provide timely information that will help us prevent criminal activities.” He underscored the necessity of a unified response from all community stakeholders to safeguard lives and restore calm in areas affected by violence. Adewale added, “Every stakeholder has a vital role to play in building a common front against cultism and other criminal activities. We must work together to prevent violence and ensure the safety of our people.”

During the interactive session, the traditional rulers, youth leaders, and CDC representatives voiced their apprehension regarding the security situation. They appealed for increased police presence and patrols within their communities and stressed the importance of protecting the identities of residents who provide security information to the authorities. They also brought up other areas where support from the police and government was needed.

In response, the Commissioner assured the community leaders that their concerns would be given due attention, reiterating the significance of continuous dialogue between law enforcement and local stakeholders. He encouraged residents to promptly report any threats or suspicious activities, enabling security operatives to intervene before situations escalate into violence. “We encourage residents to report suspicious movements, threats and other security concerns promptly. Early information will enable the police to respond before situations deteriorate into violence,” he stated.

The community leaders expressed gratitude for the engagement and pledged their commitment to work more closely with the police command to curb cult-related incidents and avert further loss of life. The command, in turn, called on residents and other stakeholders in Yenagoa communities to reject violence and reprisals, urging them to support all lawful efforts aimed at maintaining peace and security.