The Bayelsa State Government has announced the immediate suspension of the Paramount Ruler of Swali Community in Yenagoa Local Government Area, His Royal Highness Wilcox Seiyefa Job.
The decision was approved by the Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, following credible intelligence reports linking the traditional ruler’s two sons to ongoing cult-related activities in the community.
According to the government, the suspension became necessary due to the monarch’s inability to provide the leadership expected of his office, especially in the fight against rising insecurity, crime, and cultism within the Swali axis of the state capital.
In a joint statement signed by the Hon. Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Hon. Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, and the Hon. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Thompson Amule, the state government expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Swali and the apparent complicity or negligence on the part of the community’s traditional leadership.
The statement noted that the monarch failed to take decisive actions or cooperate with security agencies to tackle the growing cult menace, despite several warnings and the availability of actionable intelligence.
As part of immediate measures to restore law and order in the area, the Bayelsa State Government has directed the Commissioner of Police to declare the two sons of the suspended traditional ruler, along with others linked to cultism in the community, wanted. Security operatives have been mandated to arrest all those involved for thorough investigation and prosecution.
The government emphasized that it remains committed to safeguarding lives and property, and will not tolerate any form of leadership failure, particularly in communities battling threats to peace and public safety.
Signed:
Hon. Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai
Hon. Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy
Chief Thompson Amule
Hon. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
