By Ade Oyeyemi
The Rivers State Police Command has removed two senior officers, including the Divisional Police Officer of Abuloma Division, following allegations that suspected cultists renovated a police outpost in the area.
The affected officers, who also include the divisional officer overseeing the outpost, have been relieved of their duties pending the outcome of an investigation into the incident.
The development followed the circulation of a viral video showing suspected cultists celebrating the renovation of the facility on Thursday, October 15, 2026, alongside some police personnel.
The state Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident, according to a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Friday by the command’s spokesperson, Blessing Agabe.
In the statement, titled ‘Rivers State Police Command Condemns Purported Renovation of Abuloma Police Outpost by Suspected Cultists, Relieves Officers, Orders Full Investigation’, the command said the investigation would establish how the renovation was carried out and determine the truth behind the allegations.
The police also said investigators would identify the individuals or groups that financed or facilitated the project and examine the roles played by officers attached to the affected facilities.
The command condemned any relationship or activity capable of undermining the integrity, discipline and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force.
It warned that police facilities must not be used by criminal groups to gain public recognition, influence or legitimacy.
The statement read, “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.”
The command added that investigators would determine whether the renovation received the necessary approval, whether established procedures were followed and whether any officer violated professional standards.
However, the police clarified that legitimate contributions towards improving police facilities were 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 support must not compromise police independence, professional conduct or security, adding that donations would not shield anyone from investigation or prosecution.
The command warned that officers found to have engaged in misconduct or maintained improper relationships with criminal elements would face disciplinary and legal consequences in accordance with the law.
It also urged residents to remain calm and provide credible information to security agencies to support efforts to maintain peace and security across the state.
In the viral footage, the suspected cultists appeared to present themselves as students, chanting “greatest Nigerian students” before reportedly using slogans associated with cult groups.
The individuals were seen wearing black trousers and white shirts, with some putting on red fez caps and others wearing black berets. They celebrated in front of the renovated outpost, with some police officers also visible at the scene.
A social media platform known for its anti-cultism advocacy, Naija Confra, also shared videos and photographs purportedly showing the individuals chanting slogans, including “Aromate”, at the facility on Thursday.
The incident reportedly occurred on October 15, which is said to be the annual anniversary of the Vikings confraternity.
