Two top police officers have been removed from their jobs after claims that suspected cultists renovated a police station in Rivers State. This includes the Divisional Police Officer of the Abuloma Police Division.
The other officer is the divisional officer in charge of the affected police outpost. The Rivers State Police Command took this step after a video went viral, showing suspected cultists visiting the police facility on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to celebrate their renovation.
The state Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, shared this information in a statement from the command’s spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, on Friday in Port Harcourt. The statement, titled ‘Rivers State Police Command Condemns Purported Renovation of Abuloma Police Outpost by Suspected Cultists, Relieves Officers, Orders Full Investigation’, explained that a full investigation has been ordered.
The command condemned any actions that could harm the integrity, discipline, and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force. The police also said they will not allow any suspected cult groups or unlawful organizations to gain legitimacy through their actions.
Adepoju has ordered a thorough investigation into how the renovation happened and whether the allegations are true. The police will also look into who financed the renovation and the roles of police personnel involved.
The statement said, “The Rivers State Police Command has taken cognizance 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 statement mentioned that the investigation will check if the renovation was authorized and if police officers followed proper procedures. They will also look into whether any officer breached professional standards.
It said, “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.
“All personnel are expected to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity and accountability in the discharge of their duties.”
The command said that appropriate disciplinary and legal actions will be taken against anyone found guilty based on the investigation results and existing laws. They also asked the public to stay calm and keep providing credible information to help improve security in Rivers State.
In the viral video that our correspondent saw, the suspected cultists looked like students. They chanted “greatest Nigerian students” and used phrases related to cults.
They wore black trousers and white shirts, some with red fez caps and others with black berets. They were seen celebrating in front of the renovated facility with some police officers.
An anti-cultism platform online, Naija Confra, also shared videos and pictures of the suspected cultists chanting slogans like “Aromate” at the station on Thursday, right after taking photos with officers at the facility. It was reported that October 15 is the anniversary of the Vikings confraternity.
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