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 allegations that suspected cultists renovated the facility.
The command also ordered a full investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the renovation, identify those who financed the project and determine whether any police personnel violated professional standards.
The development followed the circulation of a video on social media showing suspected cultists visiting the renovated outpost in Abuloma, Port Harcourt, on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to celebrate the completion of the project.
In a statement issued on Friday, the police said Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju had directed that both officers be queried and relieved of their duties pending the outcome of the investigation.
The statement was signed by the command’s spokesperson, ASP Agabe Kaborlo.
Police Investigate Funding and Approval of Renovation
According to the command, investigators will establish the identities and backgrounds of the individuals or groups that financed or facilitated the renovation.
The investigation will also determine which police officers authorised the project, whether the required procedures were followed and whether any personnel compromised the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force.
The police condemned any action or association capable of undermining the force’s discipline, professionalism and public confidence.
It warned that police facilities must not become platforms through which suspected criminal groups seek public recognition, influence or legitimacy.
Police Clarify Position on Community Donations
The command acknowledged that members of the public are permitted to support improvements to police facilities under Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, which provides for gifts and contributions to the Police General Fund.
However, it stressed that such contributions must follow established procedures and must not compromise police independence, security or professional standards.
The police added that accepting donations does not exempt anyone from investigation or prosecution where evidence of wrongdoing exists.
It also promised appropriate disciplinary and legal action against anyone found culpable after the investigation.
Viral Video Sparks Questions
The controversy emerged after videos circulated online showing a group of men at the renovated police outpost alongside some police officers.
The footage reportedly showed the individuals participating in what appeared to be a ceremony marking the completion of the renovation.
Some social media reports identified the group as members of a suspected cult organisation. However, the allegations surrounding their identity, involvement in the project and relationship with the police have yet to be conclusively established.
The police said the ongoing investigation would determine the facts of the incident and whether any laws or professional regulations were breached.
The command urged residents to remain calm and provide credible information to support efforts to tackle cultism and organised crime across Rivers State.
