Suspected Cultists Renovate Rivers Police Outpost, DPO, Divisional Officer Removed

Daud Olatunji

The Rivers State Police Command has removed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Abuloma Division and the officer overseeing the Abuloma Police Outpost following reports that suspected cultists renovated the facility and visited it to celebrate the completion of the project.

The command also ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident to establish the identities of those who financed the renovation, determine whether police officers authorised the project and ascertain whether any professional misconduct occurred.

The development followed a viral social media report and a circulating video alleging that suspected cultists renovated the police outpost and visited the facility on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to celebrate the completion of the work.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Kaborlo, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, said the two officers had been queried and relieved of their duties pending the outcome of the investigation.

The command condemned any action or association capable of undermining the integrity, discipline and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force, stressing that police facilities must not be used to confer legitimacy or recognition on suspected cult groups or other unlawful organisations.

It maintained that police stations and outposts were public institutions established to protect lives and property, enforce the law and maintain public order, rather than platforms for criminal groups to seek public acceptance or influence.

The commissioner, according to the statement, directed investigators to establish the circumstances surrounding the renovation and verify the allegations contained in the viral report.

The probe will specifically examine the identities and backgrounds of the individuals or groups that financed or facilitated the project, as well as the police personnel who authorised or approved the renovation.

Investigators are also expected to determine whether the appropriate procedures were followed, whether the necessary approvals were obtained and whether any officer compromised the integrity of the Force through improper dealings with suspected criminal elements.

The command, however, clarified that it recognised legitimate community contributions towards improving police facilities, citing Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, which provides for gifts and contributions to the Police General Fund.

It stressed that such contributions must comply with established procedures and must not compromise police independence, operational security or professional standards.

The command added that the acceptance of donations or other forms of assistance would not shield anyone from investigation or prosecution where evidence of wrongdoing emerged.

It reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on cultism, organised crime and unprofessional conduct among police personnel, warning that any officer found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary measures, while criminal offences would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

The command further pledged to uphold professionalism, transparency, accountability and the protection of lives and property, assuring residents that the outcome of the investigation would guide further action.

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