Yenagoa – Tragedy struck the Swali community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State on Easter Sunday, as armed men suspected to be cultists opened fire on residents, killing four and injuring several others.
According to reports, the hooded assailants, armed with AK-47 rifles, stormed the densely populated riverine area around midnight in a Toyota Hilux. The gunmen reportedly fired indiscriminately at residents who were celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, causing widespread panic and forcing many to flee in different directions.
A local resident, who requested anonymity, described the incident as “terrible,” noting that in over a decade of living in the community, he had never witnessed such violent unrest.
“It was terrible. I’ve lived here for over ten years, and I’ve never seen anything like this,” he said.
He added that the incident did not appear to be a robbery, as the attackers made no attempt to steal property but seemed focused solely on targeting individuals before fleeing the scene.
Swali, home to the Swali Ultra Modern Market — the largest in the state capital — is situated near several security installations. Despite its proximity to law enforcement presence, the area has long been plagued by violent rivalry between cult groups vying for territorial control.
In reaction to the attack, Chief Ayibanegiyefa Egba, Member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly representing Yenagoa Constituency I, strongly condemned the killings during a visit to the community. She described the act as “barbaric” and extended her condolences to the families of the victims and the entire Swali community.
The Paramount Ruler of Swali, HRH Wilcox Job, urged the state government to establish police posts at key locations to help prevent future attacks. He noted that the community had earlier appealed for increased security presence, especially in light of rising tensions.
Confirming the incident, Bayelsa State Police Public Relations Officer, Musa Mohammed, stated that security operatives had been deployed to the area to restore calm and prevent further escalation. While he acknowledged the possibility of cult-related violence, he said investigations were ongoing and assured the public of the police’s commitment to maintaining peace and order.
