In response to the recent wave of cult-related killings in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, the Nigeria Police Force has initiated a conflict resolution process, securing a ‘ceasefire’ agreement from leaders of warring cult groups in the state.
The police have issued a stern warning that any further violence or killings will lead to the immediate arrest and prosecution of the identified cult leaders.
Over the past week, cult clashes have claimed the lives of seven individuals in areas such as Igbogene, Amarata, Swali, and Ekeki, with three siblings among the victims.
The violence is linked to a struggle for control over the share of revenue from the newly established State Transport Terminal at Igbogene.
The Greenlanders Cult group controls the terminal area, but other groups like the Icelanders, Vikings, Bobos, and Dee-bams are vying for a stake in the expected revenues.
The rising death toll prompted the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, who expressed anger at the killings, to direct the tactical team of Operation Puff Adder, led by CSP Chris Nwaogbo, to arrange a meeting with the cult leaders.
Initially, the leaders declined an invitation from the police due to fear of the tactical team.
However, they later approached the police leadership to discuss the matter directly with the Commissioner of Police.
The meeting, held from Monday to Tuesday, involved the heads of about ten cult groups, who collectively agreed that all violence and killings must cease immediately.
They committed to sending messages to their foot soldiers about the ceasefire and accepted that any leader whose group is involved in further violence will be held accountable.
A reliable security source confirmed that an agreement was signed to halt the bloodshed, while investigations into the individuals responsible for the killings continue, with plans to bring them to justice.
