Bayelsa Removes Swali Monarch Over Insecurity Allegations

The Bayelsa State Government has permanently removed the paramount ruler of Swali Community, Chief Wilcox Job Seiyefa, from his position, formally withdrawing his official recognition over allegations of failing to address insecurity. Deputy Governor Peter Akpe announced the decision on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, during a meeting with community stakeholders at Government House in Yenagoa.

The action follows the recommendations of a government-appointed fact-finding committee that investigated security challenges in the riverine community. The committee consulted with community stakeholders and received input from security agencies before concluding that the traditional leadership had been weak and insufficiently firm in managing the situation. Chief Seiyefa and the Swali Council of Chiefs had initially been suspended on May 21, 2025, over allegations of aiding and abetting insecurity.

Akpe stated the removal was executed under Section 6 of the Bayelsa State Chieftaincy Law, which empowers the government to act in the interest of peace, public order, and good governance. He directed the former monarch to surrender his Certificate of Recognition and Staff of Office to the Secretary...