The Rivers State Police Command has removed two senior officers from their positions following allegations that suspected cultists renovated a police outpost in Abuloma, Port Harcourt.
The affected officers are the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Abuloma Division and the officer overseeing the police outpost. Both officers have been queried and relieved of their duties pending the outcome of an investigation.
The development followed the circulation of a viral video showing a group of individuals suspected to be cultists celebrating the completion of renovation work at the facility on Thursday, October 15, 2026.
In a statement issued on Friday, the command’s spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, said the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, had ordered a full-scale investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the project.
The investigation will determine who financed or facilitated the renovation, whether the project received the necessary approval and whether any police personnel violated professional standards.
The command condemned any association or activity capable of undermining the integrity and discipline of the Nigeria Police Force, warning that police facilities must not be used by suspected criminal groups to gain public recognition or influence.
However, the police clarified that legitimate community contributions towards improving police facilities are permitted under Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, provided such assistance does not compromise police independence, security or professional standards.
The command stressed that donations would not shield anyone from investigation or prosecution, adding that appropriate disciplinary and legal action would be taken against anyone found culpable.
The controversy has generated attention following the viral footage, which appeared to show individuals celebrating alongside police officers in front of the renovated facility while chanting slogans suspected to be associated with cult activities.
The police urged residents to remain calm and provide credible information to assist security operations across the state.
