YENAGOA-BASED ANALYST ADVOCATES DIALOGUE, HOLISTIC APPROACH TO TACKLE CULT-RELATED VIOLENCE IN BAYELSA

Mr. Sunny Pere, a public affairs analyst has faulted the recent directive by Governor Douye Diri, ordering the mass arrest of suspected cultists, describing it as ineffective in addressing cult-related violence in the state.

Mr. Pere, who spoke on Let’s Talk Nigeria, Golden 97.5 FM morning programme on Monday, said the police could exploit the directive to harass or arrest innocent citizens going about their lawful activities.

He alleged that the government was aware of some individuals involved in cult activities, adding that certain politicians allegedly use them to perpetrate illegal acts, particularly during elections.

According to him, tackling cult-related violence requires a holistic approach rather than mass arrests. He argued that many of those involved were influenced by prevailing environmental and social factors.

Mr. Pere said the governor could engage identified leaders of the groups to put an end to the killings and urged the government to constitute a dialogue committee comprising parents and community leaders to address the menace.

Many callers who participated in the programme also kicked against the mass arrest order, citing that innocent Nigerians will also suffer arrest.

ReportedBy Bright Okpo