From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
On Easter Monday, April 21, suspected cultists killed four people in Swali community, a suburb of Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, plunging residents into mourning.
Investigations indicate the gunmen entered via Ekole Creek and attacked residents celebrating Easter, leaving several injured. The wounded were treated at the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, after the assailants fled.
A community source revealed that the attackers, possibly from rival cult groups, Greenlanders and Bobos, used a Toyota Hilux van and AK-47 rifles, targeting residents indiscriminately. The motive remains unclear, though some suggest a supremacy battle over market revenue. One victim was identified as Ronke Agada by the Bayelsa State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, who confirmed the incident.
Mohammed said, “An investigation is ongoing to identify those behind the attack and ensure that they face the full wrath of the law.” Police have deployed a detachment to maintain order.
Hon. Chief Ayibanegiyefa Egba, representing Yenagoa Constituency 1, visited Swali to offer condolences, describing the attack as “barbaric”. She stated, “I was at Swali Community, where I witnessed firsthand the impact of the recent brutal attack that claimed four innocent lives. As the representative of Yenagoa Constituency 1, I wish to express my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and the entire Swali community. I condemn this barbaric act in the strongest terms and assure the community of my commitment to their safety and security.”
Egba urged unity and vigilance, pledging to advocate for a police post to enhance security.
The Paramount Ruler of Swali, HRH Wilcox Seiyefa Job, commended Egba’s support and echoed the call for strategic police posts to prevent future attacks. He stressed the community’s vulnerability, given its proximity to the state’s largest market and Government House.