Bayelsa Governor Suspends Swali Paramount Ruler Amidst Cultism Crackdown; Sons Declared Wanted

Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – In a decisive move against the escalating menace of cultism, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has approved the immediate suspension of HRH Wilcox Seiyefa Job, the Paramount Ruler of Swali Community in Yenagoa Local Government Area. The unprecedented action follows the traditional ruler’s alleged failure to provide leadership in the fight against crime and cult activities within his domain, coupled with credible intelligence implicating two of his sons in cult-related violence.

The suspension was announced in a special government communiqué jointly signed by Hon. Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, and Chief Thompson Amule, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

Governor Diri has further directed the Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, to declare the two royal sons, whose names were not immediately disclosed, and all other individuals involved in cultism in Swali, wanted. They are to be arrested, investigated, and prosecuted.

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The suspension of HRH Wilcox Seiyefa Job marks the first time a traditional ruler has been disciplined in this manner in Bayelsa State amidst a recent surge in violent cult attacks. Swali Community has been identified as a hotspot for cult activities, particularly involving rival groups such as the Greenlanders and the Bobos, who are reportedly vying for control of a government-owned transport terminal. Recent reports indicate that at least 15 people have lost their lives in cult clashes across Yenagoa since January 2025, with four fatalities recorded in Swali alone on Easter Sunday.

The community had previously appealed for the establishment of a police station and strategic police posts to combat the insecurity. Despite these calls, the situation in Swali has remained volatile.

This action by Governor Diri aligns with his administration’s broader crackdown on cultism across the state. The Governor recently directed the management of Niger Delta University (NDU) to expel students involved in cult activities and has consistently urged security agencies to swiftly prosecute all those arrested for cult-related crimes.