Rivers: Police remove DPO over alleged station renovation by suspected cultists

The Rivers State Police Command has removed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Abuloma Police Division and the divisional officer overseeing an affected police outpost following allegations that suspected cultists renovated the facility.

The two senior officers have also been queried and relieved of their duties pending the outcome of an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the renovation and the identities of those who financed or facilitated the project.

The decision followed the circulation of a viral video showing suspected cultists celebrating the completion of the renovation at the police outpost on Thursday.

The Commissioner of Police (CP) in Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, ordered a full-scale investigation to determine whether the renovation was authorised and whether any police personnel breached professional standards.

The command’s spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, announced the development in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Friday.

The statement, titled ‘Rivers State Police Command Condemns Purported Renovation of Abuloma Police Outpost by Suspected Cultists, Relieves Officers, Orders Full Investigation’, stressed that the police would not tolerate conduct capable of undermining the integrity and professional standards of the force.

The command also said the investigation would establish whether the individuals or groups involved in funding the renovation had any improper links with police personnel.

The statement read, “The Rivers State Police Command has taken cognisance of a trending social media report and circulating video alleging that suspected cultists renovated the Abuloma Police Outpost and visited the facility on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to celebrate the completion of the renovation.

“The Command strongly condemns any action or association capable of compromising the integrity, discipline and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force or conferring legitimacy, recognition or acceptance on suspected cult groups or other unlawful organisations.

“Police facilities are public institutions established for the protection of citizens and the enforcement of law and must not become platforms through which criminal groups seek public validation or influence.

“Under the leadership of CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, the Command maintains zero tolerance for criminality and any conduct that undermines public confidence in the Police.

“Consequently, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Abuloma Division and the Divisional Officer overseeing the affected Police Outpost have been queried and relieved of their duties pending investigation.

“Furthermore, the Commissioner of Police has ordered a full investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and the veracity of the allegations, including the identities and backgrounds of the individuals or groups who financed or facilitated the renovation.”

The investigation will also determine whether the renovation received the necessary authorisation, whether established procedures were followed and whether any officer compromised the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force.

The command, however, clarified that it recognised legitimate contributions from communities towards improving police facilities, provided such support complied with the law and did not undermine police independence.

The statement added, “The Command welcomes legitimate community support for improving police facilities, consistent with Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, which provides for gifts and contributions to the Police General Fund.

“However, such support must not compromise police independence, professional standards or security.

“The investigation will establish whether the necessary approvals were obtained and appropriate checks conducted on those who financed or facilitated the renovation.

“No donation or assistance confers immunity from investigation or prosecution.

“The Command reiterates that it will not condone unprofessional conduct, compromise or any form of improper association with criminal elements by any police officer.

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“All personnel are expected to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity and accountability in the discharge of their duties.”

The police said anyone found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary and legal action based on the investigation’s findings and applicable laws.

It also called on residents to remain calm and provide credible, timely information to support security operations across Rivers State.

The controversy arose after a video circulated on social media showing a group of individuals celebrating in front of the renovated police facility alongside some police officers.

In the footage, the individuals appeared to present themselves as students and were heard chanting “greatest Nigerian students” at intervals before using what appeared to be cult-related slogans.

They wore black trousers and white shirts, with some sporting red fez caps while others wore black berets.