In a landmark victory for peace and community unity, a high-stakes peace talk meeting concluded in Abraka, Ethiope East Local Government Area, successfully brokering reconciliation between the Eiye and Bargar cult groups.
The negotiations, spearheaded by Comrade Dr. Efemena Umukoro Akima, State Patron and Security Consultant, mark a turning point in the fight against cultism and violence in the area.
The peace process brought together key stakeholders, including the Anti-Cult Sapele Zonal Commander, Abraka Commander, and members of the Anti-Cult Unit in Abraka, alongside the Nigerian Forest Security Service, the Nigeria Police Force (Abraka Division), the 181 Amphibious Battalion of the Nigerian Army, and the State Security Initiative Delta Sweep.
Their collective efforts ensured the talks proceeded without incident, averting potential loss of life amid heightened tensions caused by the rivalry between the two groups.
Akima, in a powerful statement, expressed profound gratitude to the security forces for their unwavering dedication.
“It is through their vigilance and sacrifices that we did not record any loss of lives despite the rivalry,” he said.
He also commended the Delta State government for prioritizing the safety and prosperity of its citizens, which provided a strong foundation for the peace process.
The talks culminated in the signing of a historic communiqué, with all parties pledging to uphold peace and reject violence.
The agreement represents a bold step toward reducing cultism and crime in Abraka, a challenge Akima acknowledged cannot be fully eradicated but can be minimized through collective action.
“In cultism or crime, there is absolutely no gain, only pain, loss, and regret,” he declared, urging the youth to channel their energy into positive endeavors that foster peace, unity, and development.
Akima who is also the Mem Rep NYCN in the State Community Policing Committee (SCPC) Delta State Command, called on all stakeholders, parents, community leaders, and residents, to actively discourage cultism among the youth.
“Together, we can build a safer and stronger Abraka community,” he affirmed, emphasizing the transformative power of unity and collective responsibility.
“We can become champions when we discourage crime in our society.”
The successful resolution has sparked hope across Abraka, with residents hailing the collaborative efforts of the security agencies and the state government.
The Ethiope East LGA Chairman, alongside representatives from the Special Anti-Cult Unit (SACU) Asaba, Abraka Division of the Nigeria Police Force, Delta Sweep, and the 181 Amphibious Battalion, were also acknowledged for their critical roles in supporting the peace process.
This breakthrough serves as a clarion call to communities across Delta State and beyond: peace is possible when stakeholders unite for a common cause. As Abraka takes bold steps toward a brighter, safer future, the message is clear—cultism and crime offer no rewards, but unity and development pave the way for progress
