The Commissioner of Police in Bayelsa State, Adewale Ajao, has ordered intensified operations against cultism and cult-related violence across the state. The directive was contained in a statement signed by the command spokesperson, Musa Muhammad, a deputy superintendent of police, on Monday. Ajao directed divisional police officers and tactical commanders to increase patrols in vulnerable areas. They are to identify emerging threats and act promptly on credible intelligence concerning planned clashes, initiation ceremonies and recruitment activities.
Cultism has plagued Nigerian campuses and communities for decades. The Vikings, Black Axe and Buccaneers are among the most notorious confraternities. They have evolved from student groups into organised crime networks. In Bayelsa, cult clashes have killed dozens over the past decade. In 2022, a violent clash in Yenagoa left several dead. In 2024, the state recorded multiple cult-related killings. The police have launched crackdowns before. They have produced arrests and prosecutions. They have not eliminated the groups.
Ajao said the directive is part of renewed efforts to prevent killings, reprisal attacks and sustain peace. He ordered closer engagement with community leaders and stakeholders. He warned cult groups that the police would pursue not only those who carry out attacks but also those who finance, organise or facilitate them. The command declared there would be “no sacred cows” in the crackdown. Anyone reasonably suspected of organising, financing or participating in cult-related crimes would be investigated. Suspects against whom sufficient evidence is established would be prosecuted.
The police drew attention to the Bayelsa State Secret Cults/Societies and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2012, as amended in 2018. It prohibits membership and sponsorship of secret cults. It prescribes criminal penalties upon conviction. The command warned residents against taking the law into their own hands. It urged the public to avoid reprisal attacks, harbouring suspects and spreading unverified information. Parents and guardians were advised to monitor their children and wards.
Winners: The police, which shows action. Communities in Bayelsa, if violence falls. Residents, if they gain safety. The state government, which supports enforcement. Losers: Cult groups, which face pressure. Their financiers, who face prosecution. Residents who take the law into their own hands, who face arrest. Criminals who escape conviction.
Bottom Line: Bayelsa’s police commissioner ordered a crackdown. Cult groups are warned. Financiers face prosecution. “No sacred cows” is the message. Enforcement is the test. The law exists. It must be applied.