From Seyi Tayese, Yenagoa
The Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa State Command, CP Ajao Saka Adewale, has on the 9th of October 2026, met with traditional rulers, youth leaders and Community Development Committee (CDC) representatives in Yenagoa to strengthen community collaboration against the recent spate of cult-related violence that has claimed lives in some communities.
CP Ajao, during the community engagement, said the violence demanded a united response. Describing traditional rulers as the eyes of their communities, he urged them to work with youth leaders and CDCs to identify emerging threats, discourage reprisals and share timely information with the Police.
He noted that each group has a vital role in building a common front to protect lives and restore peace.
The traditional rulers, youth leaders and CDC representatives raised concerns about the security situation and called for stronger police visibility and patrols. They also stressed the need to protect the identities of residents who provide information, while drawing attention to other areas in which they sought support from the Police and government.
The Commissioner assured them that their concerns would receive attention and emphasised the importance of sustained communication between community leaders and the Police. He urged residents to report threats and suspicious activities promptly so that officers can intervene before violence escalates.
The community leaders expressed appreciation for the engagement and pledged to work more closely with the Command to curb cult-related activities and prevent further loss of life. The Command calls on all parties to reject violence and reprisals and to support lawful efforts to keep Yenagoa communities safe.
