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 financed the renovation of the facility.
The two officers have been queried and relieved of their duties pending an investigation into a viral social media report and video alleging that suspected cultists visited the outpost on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to celebrate the completion of the renovation they allegedly sponsored.
The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Blessing Agabe, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, adding that the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, had ordered a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the project.
Agabe said the Command was concerned that the alleged involvement of suspected cultists in renovating a police facility could undermine public confidence in the Force and create an impression of official acceptance of unlawful groups.
“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,” she said.
She added that police facilities must remain dedicated to protecting citizens and enforcing the law, rather than becoming platforms for criminal groups to seek public recognition 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,” Agabe said.
She explained that the investigation would identify the individuals or groups that financed or facilitated the renovation, establish which police personnel authorised or approved the project, and determine whether the required procedures were followed.
Investigators would also examine whether any officer breached professional standards, compromised the integrity of the Force or engaged in other misconduct connected with the renovation.
The police spokesperson acknowledged that legitimate community contributions could help improve police facilities, citing Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, which provides for gifts and contributions to the Police General Fund.
She, however, stressed that such assistance must not compromise police independence, professional standards or security requirements.
According to her, the investigation would establish whether the necessary approvals were obtained and appropriate background checks conducted on those who financed or facilitated the project.
Agabe warned that donations or other forms of assistance would not exempt anyone from investigation or prosecution if found culpable of wrongdoing.
She assured residents that the Command remained committed to professionalism, transparency and accountability, as well as the protection of lives and property and the fight against cultism and organised crime.
Anyone found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary and legal action in accordance with the findings of the investigation and extant laws, she said.
Agabe urged residents to remain calm and provide credible, timely information to assist the police in maintaining security across Rivers State.