The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Abuloma Police Division in Rivers State has been removed from his position following the controversial renovation of a police outpost by suspected cultists.
Another senior officer, the divisional officer overseeing the affected outpost, has also been relieved of his duties pending investigation into the incident.
The Rivers State Police Command announced the action on Friday after a viral video showed suspected cultists celebrating the completion of the renovation alongside police officers at the facility.
The Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, ordered a full-scale investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the project and determine whether any police personnel compromised their professional responsibilities.
The command’s spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, disclosed the development in a statement titled, “Rivers State Police Command Condemns Purported Renovation of Abuloma Police Outpost by Suspected Cultists, Relieves Officers, Orders Full Investigation.”
The police said the two officers had been queried and removed from their positions while investigations continued.
According to the statement, investigators would establish the identities and backgrounds of the individuals or groups that financed or facilitated the renovation, whether the project received the necessary approval and whether established procedures were followed.
The command condemned any association capable of undermining the integrity and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force or giving suspected cult groups public recognition.
“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,” the statement said.
The command, however, clarified that legitimate community support for improving police facilities was permitted under 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 assistance must not compromise police independence, security or professional standards.
“No donation or assistance confers immunity from investigation or prosecution,” the statement added.
The police warned that any officer found to have engaged in unprofessional conduct or maintained improper associations with criminal elements would face appropriate disciplinary action.
The controversy erupted after videos and photographs circulated online showing the suspected cultists at the renovated Abuloma Police Outpost on Thursday, October 15.
In the footage, the individuals, dressed in white shirts and black trousers, appeared to pose as students and chanted “greatest Nigerian students” before switching to slogans allegedly associated with cult groups.
Some wore red fez caps, while others had black berets. They were seen celebrating in front of the facility alongside some police officers.
Anti-cultism platform Naija Confra also shared footage and photographs purportedly showing the group chanting slogans, including “Aromate”, after taking pictures with officers at the station.
The incident reportedly coincided with the annual anniversary of the Vikings confraternity on October 15.
The Rivers State Police Command urged residents to remain calm and provide credible information to assist its investigation, insisting that no form of misconduct or compromise by its personnel would be tolerated.
The command said further disciplinary and legal action would be taken against anyone found culpable.
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