Cultist groups previously disbanded by the police in the Ekpeye kingdoms of Ahoada East and West Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Rivers State have returned with enhanced firepower, intensifying their violent reign of terror. These groups, linked to the late cult leader David Okpala, known as “2 Baba,” have renewed attacks on local communities, resulting in over 20 deaths and numerous kidnappings in recent months.
The Orashi National Congress (ONC), representing several LGAs in Rivers State, has condemned the resurgence of cult violence in Ahoada. According to ONC President Comrade Emeni Ibe, a significant power struggle among cult factions has left residents in constant fear. “Within two weeks, nine people have been killed across several communities, including Edeoha and Ihuoro,” he reported, noting that the violence has now spread to areas previously unaffected, such as Upata.
Widespread Fear and Economic Impact
The insecurity has drastically impacted the livelihoods of local residents. “People can no longer visit their farms, and traders are afraid to do business. Strangers avoid our community, and those who speak up against the cultists often face severe consequences,” said Mr. Hector Chinem, a resident and spokesperson for the Igbu Akoh Youth Congress. He described how the situation has created widespread hunger, with locals fearing to farm or harvest crops, as armed cultists now control much of the land and resources.
Chinem also voiced concern about the upcoming holiday season, explaining that many people who would normally visit their hometowns are reconsidering due to the insecurity. “Those who intended to come home for Christmas may now stay away, fearing for their safety,” he lamented.
Kidnappings, Ransom, and Murder
The cultists have reportedly been kidnapping residents and travelers alike, demanding ransoms ranging from N50,000 to N100,000. “Around Odjiabede, these boys stopped several people traveling from Ahoada to Abua, seized their motorcycles, and kidnapped four individuals, later collecting ransom payments for their release,” Ibe revealed. In some cases, kidnapped individuals have disappeared without a trace, with locals believing that victims are buried alive or killed in secrecy.
Calls for Government Intervention and Security Reform
The resurgence of cultist activity has exposed weaknesses in the current security response. Although the police managed to neutralize key figures in the initial crackdown, a lack of sustained support has allowed other cult members to regroup. Local leaders are calling for the empowerment and expansion of the Ekpeye Security Planning and Advisory Committee (ESPAC), a local security force currently limited by inadequate resources and equipment.
“Police efforts alone are not sufficient. The area needs an internal security arrangement that includes ESPAC, armed and supported to counter these cultists,” Ibe said. He explained that while the cultists are equipped with sophisticated weaponry and protective fortifications, ESPAC operatives rely on hunting guns and lack training. “In neighboring communities like Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, local security measures have proven effective, and we believe a similar model could help in Ekpeye,” he added.
A Call to Action
Chinem called on the Rivers State Governor to intervene directly, expressing frustration that political interests may be enabling the resurgence of cult activity. “The recent political crisis has fueled this uprising, and politicians appear comfortable with the situation,” he said. “The cultists are now a major threat to local agriculture and commerce, with locals fearing to voice opposition.”
Despite the government’s silence, community leaders are pressing for a coordinated response that includes state support, local security reforms, and stricter law enforcement to address the root causes of cultism in the region. As the situation stands, the communities of Ahoada East and West face a dire future if the government and security agencies fail to act decisively.
