The Rivers State Police Command has removed two senior officers from their positions following allegations that suspected cultists renovated the Abuloma Police Outpost in Port Harcourt.
The affected officers are the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Abuloma Division and the officer overseeing the police outpost.
The command also ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the renovation and the identities of those who funded or facilitated the project.
The state Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, announced the measures in a statement issued on Friday by the command’s spokesperson, Blessing Agabe.
The action followed the circulation of a viral video showing individuals suspected to be cult members celebrating the completion of the renovation at the facility on Thursday, October 15, 2026.
According to the statement, the command was investigating whether the renovation received official approval, whether due procedures were followed and whether any police personnel violated professional standards.
The police condemned any conduct that could undermine public confidence in the force or create an impression of acceptance for 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,” the statement said.
The command disclosed that both officers had been queried and relieved of their duties pending the outcome of the investigation.
It, however, clarified that legitimate community contributions towards improving police facilities were permissible under Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, which provides for gifts and contributions to the Police General Fund.
The statement stressed that such assistance must not compromise the independence, security or professional standards of the police.
“No donation or assistance confers immunity from investigation or prosecution,” the command added.
It further warned that any officer found to have engaged in misconduct or improper association with criminal elements would face appropriate disciplinary and legal action.
The police urged residents to remain calm and provide credible information to support security operations across the state.
In the viral footage, the individuals, dressed in white shirts and black trousers, appeared to present themselves as students while chanting slogans, including “greatest Nigerian students.” Some wore red fez caps, while others had black berets.
The individuals were also seen celebrating in front of the renovated facility alongside some police officers.
An anti-cultism platform, Naija Confra, reportedly shared additional videos and photographs of the gathering, in which the participants chanted slogans, including “Aromate.”
It was gathered that October 15 marks the annual anniversary of the Vikings confraternity. However, the allegations surrounding the renovation remain subject to the police investigation.
