Rivers Community Seeks End to Cult-Driven Bloodshed

In Ahoada East LGA, Rivers State, residents from Ekpeye for Development and Peace have expressed alarm over persistent killings by a notorious cult group, allegedly led by Gift Okpara, known as 2baba.

Despite being wanted for the murder of SP Bako Angbashim, the gang, dismayingly, continues its violent spree.

The recent tragedy unfolded in Odiemerenyi community, where five individuals were brutally killed, believed to have been targeted for providing information to the police about the cult’s hideout.

Concerns have been raised about the perceived inadequacy of efforts by the Rivers State Government and security agencies in apprehending the wanted cult leader and his accomplices.

“We, the concerned Ekpeye People for Peace and Development, call for a state of emergency on insecurity in EkpeyeLand. Arrest, prosecute sponsors, and redeploy over-stayed police officers.

“It is exactly 64 days since Ekpeye people lost total sleep following the death of SP Bako.”

“We hereby express our profound disappointment and dissatisfaction with the Nigeria Police Force in Rivers State led by the former Commissioner of Police CP Emeka Polycarp who in no way showed or proved gallantry in the discharge of his constitutional duties as regards the security of Rivers people and most importantly, the bleeding Ekpeye Nation,” he stressed.

They urgently appealed to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, urging him to intervene and put an end to the relentless killings in the area, highlighting the prevailing atmosphere of fear among residents.

“We, therefore, call on the new Commissioner of Police (CP), Tunji Disu, to see the insecurity of EkpeyeLand as a topmost priority as he expedites his actions and investigations by leaving no stone unturned, thereby bringing the sponsors and perpetrators to book”.