RismadarVoice Reporters
October 16, 2026
The Rivers State Police Command has removed two senior officers from their duties, including the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Abuloma Division, following allegations that suspected cult members were involved in renovating a police outpost in the area.
The officers, whose identities have not been publicly disclosed, were reportedly issued queries and relieved of their responsibilities pending the outcome of an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the renovation.
The action followed the circulation of a viral video showing individuals suspected of belonging to a cult group celebrating outside the renovated police facility on Thursday, October 15, 2026.
Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju subsequently ordered a comprehensive investigation to determine whether the project received official approval and whether any serving police personnel violated established professional standards.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Friday by the command’s spokesperson, Blessing Agabe.
According to the command, investigators will examine the circumstances under which the renovation was undertaken, identify those responsible for financing or facilitating the project and establish whether the necessary administrative procedures were followed.
The investigation will also determine whether the involvement of any individuals or organisations compromised the independence, discipline or integrity of the Nigeria Police Force.
The command condemned any association capable of giving criminal organisations undue recognition or influence within police institutions.
It maintained that police stations and outposts are public facilities established to protect lives and property, enforce the law and maintain public order.
The command stressed that such facilities must not become platforms through which suspected criminal groups seek legitimacy or establish relationships capable of undermining law enforcement.
While reaffirming its commitment to accountability, the police clarified that lawful contributions from individuals and communities towards improving police infrastructure are permitted under the Nigeria Police Act 2020.
It cited Section 26(1)(d) of the Act, which provides for gifts and contributions to the Police General Fund.
However, the command emphasised that such contributions must comply with applicable procedures and must not interfere with police independence, operational security or professional conduct.
It further warned that financial or material support for police facilities does not grant donors immunity from criminal investigation or prosecution.
The police assured the public that appropriate disciplinary and legal measures would be taken against any officer or individual found culpable after the investigation.
The command also urged personnel to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism while encouraging residents to provide credible information that could assist security operations.
VIRAL VIDEO RAISES QUESTIONS OVER RENOVATION
The controversy began after footage circulated online showing a group of individuals celebrating in front of the renovated police outpost alongside some uniformed officers.
In the video, several participants were dressed in white shirts and black trousers, while some wore red fez caps or black berets.
The group was heard chanting slogans, including “greatest Nigerian students”, which some social media users associated with confraternity activities.
An online anti-cultism platform also circulated photographs and videos reportedly showing the individuals chanting other slogans, including “Aromate”, outside the facility.
The celebration reportedly coincided with October 15, a date associated with the anniversary of the Vikings confraternity.
However, the identities and affiliations of the individuals captured in the footage have not been officially established by the police.
It also remains unclear whether the renovation was initiated by a recognised community organisation, privately financed or undertaken with formal police authorisation.
The police investigation is expected to establish the source of funding, the level of involvement of personnel attached to the facility and whether any breach of established procedures occurred.
The command maintained that it would not tolerate misconduct capable of undermining public confidence in law enforcement institutions.
