Suspected Cultists Butcher 4 in Easter Sunday Attack

Armed men suspected to be cultists launched a deadly midnight attack on Easter Sunday in the Swali community of Yenagoa Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, leaving four people dead and several others injured.

Eyewitnesses say the attackers, masked and wielding AK-47 rifles, arrived in a Toyota Hilux and opened fire on residents who were celebrating Easter. The unprovoked assault caused panic and forced many to flee the area. No properties were reported stolen during the incident, leading residents to believe the attack was not a robbery but a targeted shooting.

A resident, who asked not to be named, described the incident as the worst he had seen in his over ten years living in the riverine suburb. Swali, home to the state capital’s largest market—the Swali Ultra Modern Market—is situated near multiple security formations but has long been known as a hotspot for rival cult clashes.

The member representing Yenagoa Constituency I in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Chief Ayibanegiyefa Egba, condemned the attack, calling it “barbaric.” She visited the community and extended her condolences to the families of the victims and the entire Swali community.

Also responding to the violence, the Paramount Ruler of Swali, HRH Wilcox Job, appealed to the state government to establish police posts at strategic locations to prevent future attacks. He emphasized the community’s longstanding call for improved security presence in the area.

Bayelsa State Police spokesperson, Musa Mohammed, confirmed the attack and stated that security measures had been reinforced to restore calm. He added that while the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, efforts are ongoing to prevent further violence and protect residents.