Amarata Community Launches Peace Walk Against Rising Cult Violence in Bayelsa

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

The Amarata community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State staged a massive peace walk on Monday, protesting the surge in cult-related violence and criminal activities within the locality. The community warned cult groups to vacate the area immediately, signalling a zero-tolerance approach to insecurity.

Paramount Ruler Leads the Call for Peace
The peace walk was led by the Paramount Ruler of Amarata, Chief Sam David, who declared that the community had reached a breaking point. He emphasised that traditional authorities, security agencies, and youths would collaborate to flush out criminal elements and restore peace.

“We will no longer tolerate insecurity in Amarata. Our community deserves peace, and we are committed to ensuring that criminal elements are driven out,” Chief David stated.

Youth-Led Initiative to Combat Crime
The community’s youth leaders took an active role in the campaign. Youth President, Comrade Izibeya Excel, pledged that residents would no longer live in fear, insisting that offenders would be pursued “house to house” if necessary.

Comrade Gifted Natus further launched Operation Set Amarata Free, warning that even indigenes involved in cultism would not be spared and would face strict sanctions. “No one is above the law or community standards. Our aim is to make Amarata safe for all residents,” Natus said.

Community Solidarity and Public Appeal
During the walk, participants carried placards bearing messages such as “Say No to Cultism” and “Amarata Must Be Free,” demonstrating a unified stance against criminality. Community stakeholders called on law enforcement agencies and civil society organisations to support their campaign for lasting peace and to take proactive measures to prevent further escalation of violence.

Akahi News gathered that the peace walk reflects a growing movement across Bayelsa State, where communities are increasingly mobilising to reclaim their localities from cult groups and criminal elements. Residents expressed optimism that sustained collaboration between traditional authorities, youths, and security agencies will ensure that Amarata becomes a model for community-led peace initiatives.

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