The Rivers State Police Command has removed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Abuloma Division and another officer from their positions following controversy over the renovation of a police outpost allegedly carried out by suspected cultists.
The development came after a video circulated on social media showing a group of suspected cult members at the renovated facility on Thursday, October 15, celebrating the completion of the project alongside some police officers.
Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, ordered an investigation into the incident, according to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, on Friday in Port Harcourt.
The police said both officers had been queried and removed from their duties while investigators examined how the renovation was arranged and who provided the funds.
The investigation will also determine whether the project received official approval and whether any police personnel violated professional rules.
The command expressed concern that the incident could damage public trust in the police, stressing that police facilities must not be used by criminal groups to gain recognition or influence.
However, the police clarified that community members could support the improvement of police facilities through lawful means, provided the process followed the required guidelines and did not affect the force’s independence.
The statement read, “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 warned that officers found to have acted improperly would face disciplinary measures, while anyone found culpable could also face legal action in line with existing laws.
It urged residents to remain calm and continue providing useful information to security agencies.
In the viral footage, the group appeared to present themselves as students and could be heard chanting “greatest Nigerian students” before using slogans described as cult-related.
The individuals were seen wearing white shirts, black trousers and different types of caps, including red fez caps and black berets, as they celebrated outside the renovated facility with some police officers.
Anti-cultism platform Naija Confra also shared footage and photographs of the gathering, in which the suspected cultists allegedly chanted “Aromate”.
The gathering reportedly coincided with the annual anniversary of the Vikings confraternity, which falls on October 15.