Bayelsa Governor Removes Traditional Ruler Over Insecurity Issues

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has removed King Wilcox Seiyefa from his position as the Ebeniken, or paramount ruler, of the Swali community.

Mr Diri announced this decision through the Deputy Governor, Peter Akpe, during a meeting with Swali community stakeholders at the Government House in Yenagoa on Tuesday. He said the removal followed recommendations from a fact-finding committee.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that King Seiyefa and his Council of Chiefs were suspended by the Bayelsa government on May 21, 2025. This was due to claims that they were helping to fuel insecurity in the Swali community.

While announcing the end of King Seiyefa's recognition, the governor said this action aligns with Section 6 of the state’s Chieftaincy Law. It focuses on maintaining peace, order, and good governance. He ordered that steps to elect a new paramount ruler should start right away and be finished within three months.

“The fact-finding committee spoke with various stakeholders in the Swali community and got advice from security agencies on how to move forward.

“From the committee’s findings, it is clear that during the time those actions that caused violence and insecurity happened, the leadership was weak and could not make strong decisions to handle the situation.

“The government will help set up an electoral committee to oversee the election of a new paramount ruler. This election must happen within three months, starting from June 30,” he said.

The governor made it clear that all members of the current caretaker committee will keep working until new leaders are chosen. However, any member who wants to run for election must step aside.

Citing parts of the Chieftaincy Law, the governor told the dethroned ruler to return his certificate of recognition and staff of office to the Secretary of the Yenagoa Local Government Area. He said these must be sent to his office no later than one month from June 30.

The governor thanked the people of the Epie kingdoms and the security agencies for their support in the efforts for peace and security. He urged all traditional rulers to understand the Chieftaincy Law to avoid problems in the future.

Meanwhile, a five-member electoral committee has been formed to manage the election of a new Ebeniken for Swali.

The committee is led by the Governor's Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs, Bertola Perekeme. Other members include Yinkore Terimoh, Gesiye Obireke, and Richard Perekeme, with Domo-Spiff Boma serving as secretary.