Residents and stakeholders in Sagbama Ward 6 of Sagbama Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, have raised concerns over increasing incidents of political violence and unrest linked to electoral activities in the area, particularly in Isoni community.
Community members say the growing tension has disrupted the peace that the ward was once known for and has created fear among residents ahead of elections and political gatherings. They allege that acts of intimidation, attacks during party primaries, and the destruction of electoral materials have become more common in recent years.
According to residents, Sagbama Ward 6 had long maintained a peaceful political environment before tensions emerged during the early 2020s in connection with political contests within the Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency. Citizens say elections and party activities were previously conducted without major violence or conflict.
Several stakeholders have accused Mr. Jonah Abeke, an indigene of Isoni community, of being involved in political violence within the ward. Residents allege that he has repeatedly acted as a political enforcer during elections and party primaries.
The concerned citizens also named individuals they claim are associated with the alleged activities. Those mentioned include Eleazar Damateidei, Damateidei Freeman, Ebebi Justice, Progress Balasco, and other unidentified persons. The allegations have not been independently verified, and no official response from the accused individuals was immediately available at the time of reporting.
According to the residents, the group has allegedly been mobilized on different occasions to disrupt electoral processes, seize election materials, and intimidate voters and political opponents. They claim these actions have contributed to an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty across the ward.
Community leaders described the development as troubling and warned that continued violence could further damage social harmony within the area. Many residents expressed concern that political rivalry has gradually transformed previously peaceful communities into tense environments whenever elections approach.
The issue gained renewed attention following the death of Mr. Seiyefa Michael of Isoni community during a recent party primary election. Residents said the incident has intensified calls for justice and accountability from community members and political stakeholders.
Many citizens believe the incident reflects the wider dangers associated with political violence and the use of alleged political thugs during elections. They warned that failure to address the problem could lead to further instability and loss of lives.
Youth leaders and concerned stakeholders are now calling on security agencies and relevant authorities to carry out a full investigation into the allegations surrounding Mr. Jonah Abeke and others accused of involvement in political violence within Sagbama Ward 6.
They also urged investigators to examine the role of any individuals alleged to have sponsored or encouraged violent acts during elections and political activities in the constituency. According to the residents, anyone found culpable should face prosecution in accordance with the law.
Residents further appealed to politicians and political actors across the Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency to embrace peaceful political engagement and democratic principles. They stressed that elections should be based on ideas, leadership, and service to the people rather than violence or intimidation.
Some stakeholders warned that persistent electoral violence could discourage voter participation and weaken public confidence in democratic processes within the area. They noted that many residents now fear participating openly in political activities because of concerns over safety.
Community members emphasized that the people of Isoni and the wider Sagbama Ward 6 deserve to live in peace and participate freely in politics without fear of attacks or harassment. They urged authorities to take urgent steps to restore confidence and maintain law and order before future elections.
The concerned citizens reiterated that the continued loss of lives and disruption of public peace for political purposes must be addressed to prevent further escalation of violence in the area.
