A violent confrontation between rival cult groups, identified as the Bobos and Greenlanders, erupted in the Swali Ultra Modern Market in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. During the clash, a stray bullet fatally struck a woman known as Onorakpoma, a trader hailing from Emede community in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State. She was actively engaged in her business within the market when the unfortunate incident occurred.
Circumstances Leading to the Incident
Eyewitnesses reported that the altercation began when a member of one cult group, of northern extraction, approached his former associate, now aligned with a rival faction, seeking financial assistance. Upon being denied, the individual was confronted by other members of the rival group, leading to a violent encounter. In the ensuing chaos, a shot was fired, injuring the man’s arm. The bullet then ricocheted, tragically striking Onorakpoma. Efforts were made to transport her to a community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area for medical attention, but she succumbed to her injuries en route.
Market Closure and Security Response
Following the incident, security operatives ordered the closure of shops in the Slaughter Road area of the market, expressing concerns over the traders’ reluctance to report cult-related activities. As the day progressed, traders cautiously resumed their activities, reopening shops and displaying their goods. The presence of security personnel remained noticeable, aiming to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of the market’s patrons and vendors.
Community and Family Reactions
Members of the Isoko community in Bayelsa State voiced their concerns regarding the handling of Onorakpoma’s remains. According to cultural practices and the deceased’s wishes, she had instructed that she should not be taken to a mortuary but buried immediately if she passed away. However, the police reportedly prevented family members from retrieving her body for burial, leading to tensions between the community and law enforcement. The President of the Isoko Development Union in the state, Mr. Godstime Ohigbo, expressed his confusion over the police’s actions, stating, “As I speak with you, we are at the State CID. The corpse is at her residence and it’s being guarded by the police.”
Police Actions and Statements
The Bayelsa State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Musa Mohammed, confirmed the incident and assured the public of the police’s swift response. He stated that upon receiving the information, the Commissioner of Police deployed tactical teams to the Swali community, restoring calm and arresting three suspects in connection with the clash. Regarding the delay in releasing the deceased’s body, Mohammed explained that it was standard procedure to conduct a thorough investigation before allowing the body to be taken to the mortuary or released for burial.
Ongoing Cult-Related Violence in Bayelsa State
This tragic event underscores the persistent issue of cult-related violence in Bayelsa State. In recent times, there has been a resurgence of clashes between rival cult groups, leading to loss of lives and heightened insecurity in the region. For instance, on January 19, 2025, a renewed conflict between cultists in Yenagoa resulted in the death of a young man identified as Frank, also known as Akiman. The assailants, numbering about six, trailed Frank to Punch Road and shot him multiple times, leading to his death. This incident temporarily disrupted commercial activities in the Amarata axis of Yenagoa, as traders and residents fled the area to avoid being caught in the violence.
Efforts to Curb Cult Violence
In response to the escalating cult-related violence, the Bayelsa State Police Command has initiated measures to broker peace among the warring factions. Recently, the police secured a ‘ceasefire’ agreement with leaders of ten different cult groups in the state. As part of this agreement, the cult leaders signed an undertaking to renounce violence and work towards maintaining peace in their respective communities. The police have warned that any cult group identified in further violent activities will be held responsible, and stringent actions will be taken against them.
Community Impact and Call for Vigilance
The recurring incidents of cult clashes have instilled fear among residents and traders in Yenagoa and its environs. The unpredictable nature of these violent outbreaks disrupts daily activities, affects livelihoods, and poses significant risks to innocent bystanders. Community leaders and security agencies are urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities promptly. There is a collective call for collaborative efforts to address the root causes of cultism, including unemployment, peer pressure, and the allure of quick wealth, which often drive youths into these violent groups.
Conclusion
The death of Onorakpoma serves as a somber reminder of the pervasive threat posed by cult-related violence in Bayelsa State. While security agencies have intensified efforts to curb these activities, the involvement of community members, religious organizations, and civil society groups is crucial in fostering a culture of peace and non-violence. Comprehensive strategies that address the socio-economic factors contributing to cultism are essential to prevent further loss of innocent lives and to restore lasting peace in the region.
