Bayelsa youths back police anti-cultism campaign

The participants in the peace walk.

Youths in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, have staged a peace walk in support of the police’s campaign against cultism and youth violence, pledging to work with security agencies to promote peace and curb criminal activities in the state.

The peace walk, organised by Team Wulukpense in collaboration with the Epie/Atissa Entertainment Forum, was held on Saturday, from Opolo to the Bayelsa State Police Command Headquarters in Yenagoa.

The participants carried placards bearing messages promoting peace, non-violence and the rejection of cultism, while expressing support for the command’s efforts to maintain security in the state.

Receiving the group at the command headquarters, the state Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, commended the youths for supporting the fight against cultism, criminality and other forms of violence.

He described the initiative as a demonstration of civic responsibility and collective commitment to building a safer society.

He said, “I commend the organisers and participants for this deliberate decision to identify with the police in the fight against cultism, criminality and youth violence.”

The CP noted that community participation remained important in tackling insecurity, particularly activities involving young people.

He added, “This initiative is a commendable demonstration of civic responsibility and a collective commitment to a safer society.”

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Adewale urged the organisers to sustain the campaign and extend their advocacy to other communities, particularly among young people who might be vulnerable to cult-related activities and other forms of criminality.

“I encourage you to sustain this advocacy and continue to promote responsible citizenship and lawful conduct among young people,” he stated.

The police boss also reiterated the command’s commitment to working with community groups and other stakeholders to address security challenges through cooperation and the sharing of useful information.

“The command remains committed to strengthening police-community partnerships, intelligence-led policing and constructive engagement with well-meaning groups in our collective effort to curb cultism and reduce youth violence,” the CP added.

He expressed optimism that sustained collaboration between the police and residents would help preserve peace and security in Yenagoa and other parts of the state.

Adewale wished the organisers success in their campaign and encouraged other youth organisations to support initiatives aimed at discouraging violence and promoting peaceful coexistence.

The peace walk formed part of efforts by the participating youth groups to mobilise residents against cultism and encourage greater community involvement in maintaining security.

The Command urged residents to support lawful security initiatives and work with the police towards sustaining peace across the state.