In response to the escalating wave of cult-related killings in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, the Nigeria Police Force has implemented a strategic conflict resolution plan to enforce a ceasefire among rival cult groups.
The State Command has issued a stern warning that any further violence will lead to the immediate arrest and prosecution of the responsible cult leaders.
Violent clashes between these factions have claimed the lives of seven people in the last week, including three siblings who tragically perished in the violence.
These clashes have primarily occurred in the Igbogene, Amarata, Swali, and Ekeki areas of Yenagoa.
At the heart of the conflict is a fierce power struggle over control of the revenue from the newly established State Transport Terminal at Igbogene.
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The terminal, located in a strategic area, is currently under the control of the Greenlanders Cult group, but other rival factions—including the Icelanders, Vikings, Bobos, and Dee-Bams—are vying for a share of the potential profits.
As tensions reached a boiling point, the State Commissioner of Police expressed frustration over the rising fatalities and instructed the Operation Puff Adder tactical team, led by CSP Chris Nwaogbo, to engage with cult leaders in an effort to broker peace.
Initially hesitant due to fear of the police operation, several leaders of the groups eventually reached out to the Commissioner to seek direct dialogue.
A high-level meeting took place this week, from Monday to Tuesday, with representatives from approximately ten different cult groups.
During the talks, the leaders reached a collective agreement: all violent activities, including killings, must cease immediately. They further pledged to communicate this resolution to their foot soldiers and agreed that any future violence would hold the group leaders accountable.
A security source confirmed that the cult leaders signed an official document committing to the ceasefire, signaling an end to the ongoing bloodshed. However, authorities have assured the public that investigations into the killings are ongoing and that those found responsible will face the full weight of the law.
