Crime & Security
Rivers Police Remove Two Officers Over Alleged Cultists’ Renovation of Abuloma Outpost
Two Rivers police officers have been removed from their positions pending an investigation into allegations that suspected cultists funded the renovation of the Abuloma Police Outpost in Port Harcourt.
The Rivers State Police Command has relieved two senior officers of their duties following allegations that suspected cultists financed the renovation of the Abuloma Police Outpost in Port Harcourt.
The affected officers are the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Abuloma Division and the officer overseeing the police outpost. Both officers have been queried and removed from their positions pending the outcome of an investigation.
The development followed the circulation of a video on social media showing individuals suspected of belonging to a cult group at the renovated facility on Thursday, October 15, 2026, apparently celebrating the completion of the project.
In a statement issued on Friday, the command’s spokesperson, ASP Agabe Kaborlo, said Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju had ordered a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the renovation and verify the allegations.
The investigation will identify the individuals or groups that financed or facilitated the project, determine which police personnel authorised or approved it, and establish whether the required procedures were followed.
Investigators will also examine whether any officers breached professional standards or compromised the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force in connection with the renovation.
The command condemned any action or association capable of undermining police discipline and professionalism or conferring legitimacy on suspected cult groups and other unlawful organisations.
It stressed that police facilities are public institutions established to protect citizens and enforce the law, and must not become platforms through which suspected criminal groups seek public recognition or influence.
However, the command clarified that legitimate community contributions towards improving police facilities are permitted under Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, which provides for gifts and contributions to the Police General Fund.
It emphasised that such assistance must not compromise police independence, security or professional standards.
The command further stated that donations or financial assistance would not exempt anyone from investigation or prosecution, adding that appropriate disciplinary and legal action would be taken against anyone found culpable.
The investigation is expected to establish who funded the renovation, whether the project received the necessary approvals and whether any police personnel engaged in misconduct.
The command urged members of the public to remain calm and provide credible information to support security efforts in Rivers State.