Three feared Dead as Fresh Killings Raise Alarm Over Rising Cult Violence in Bayelsa
By Passman Akpos
Tension gripped residents of IgboGene community in Bayelsa State on Sunday following an outbreak of violence suspected to be linked to rival cult groups, with at least three persons reportedly killed.
Eyewitnesses told Niger Delta Herald that the clash, which erupted in the early hours of the day, threw the community into panic as gunshots were heard across different parts of the area. Residents reportedly fled their homes for safety while business activities were abruptly halted.
Although the Bayelsa State Command of the Nigeria Police Force had yet to officially confirm the casualties as of press time, community sources alleged that three young men lost their lives in the attack. The identities of the victims remained unclear, while several others were said to have sustained varying degrees of injuries.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the incident as “a continuation of the disturbing cult-related violence that has plagued parts of the state in recent weeks.” He called on security agencies to intensify surveillance and restore calm in the area.
The latest incident adds to the growing wave of cult clashes in parts of the state. Local checks indicate that no fewer than six persons have reportedly lost their lives in separate cult-related incidents in recent weeks, heightening concerns among residents over safety and security.
Community leaders are said to be making efforts to appeal for calm while urging youths to shun violence and embrace peaceful coexistence. Meanwhile, residents have called on the state government and security agencies to take proactive measures to prevent further violence.
Efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer for official confirmation were still ongoing as of the time of filing this report.
