Residents of Oyorokoto, a major fishing settlement in Rivers State, are living in extreme fear. Suspected cultists have issued a chilling three-day ultimatum, demanding that inhabitants abandon their homes or face death.
This threat has triggered a wave of Oyorokoto cult violence, forcing many families to flee for their lives. Oyorokoto is located within the Andoni Local Government Area.
According to Grace Iringe Koko, the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, the crisis stems from tensions between rival cult groups. The violence escalated quickly on Wednesday, January 22, 2026.
On that day, a cult member was killed in the nearby Opuwari Community. In a swift act of retaliation, the opposing group attacked Oyorokoto, causing widespread panic. Consequently, many families from surrounding areas, including Illotombi Town, have already abandoned their homes.
While many have escaped, others remain trapped in their houses. These residents report that sporadic gunfire has continued since the initial attack. The constant exchange of bullets has made daily life unbearable and dangerous for everyone in the vicinity.
Furthermore, economic activities in the fishing settlement have ground to a total halt. Businesses are closed, and fishermen are unable to go out to sea due to the looming threat of violence.
Residents Plead for Urgent Government Intervention
Desperate community members are now calling on the government for help. They are pleading with the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, to take immediate action.
