The Rivers State Police Command has removed two senior officers from their positions and ordered a full investigation after a viral video allegedly showed suspected cult members celebrating the renovation of a police outpost in Abuloma, Port Harcourt.
The officers affected are the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the Abuloma Police Division and the divisional officer overseeing the police outpost where the renovation reportedly took place.
The command said the action followed a video circulating on social media which showed suspected cultists visiting the facility on Thursday, October 15, 2026, purportedly to mark the completion of the renovation.
The Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, disclosed the development in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Friday by the command’s spokesperson, Blessing Agabe.
In the statement, titled, ‘Rivers State Police Command Condemns Purported Renovation of Abuloma Police Outpost by Suspected Cultists, Relieves Officers, Orders Full Investigation’, the command said it was investigating the circumstances surrounding the renovation and the allegations contained in the viral footage.
The police authorities condemned any conduct or association that could undermine the integrity, discipline and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force.
The statement read, “The Rivers State Police Command has taken cognisance 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.”
According to the command, investigators will determine whether the renovation received the required approval and whether established procedures were followed.
READ ALSO:
- Rivers Police Remove DPO Over Suspected Cultists’ Renovation of Station
- No Plan to Increase Electricity Tariffs, FG Committed to 24-Hour Power Supply — Tegbe
- Ayo Animashaun Blasts Artistes for Overlooking The Headies, Submitting for Grammys
- Yetunde Bakare Breaks Silence on Backlash Over Toyin Abraham’s Leaked Audio
- Court Fixes November Dates for Trial in Gbajabiamila’s N15bn Defamation Suit
The investigation will also examine the involvement of police personnel and determine whether any officer breached professional standards or compromised the integrity of the force.
The command, however, clarified that legitimate community contributions towards improving police infrastructure are permitted under the law.
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 police said anyone found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary or legal action based on the outcome of the investigation and applicable laws.
The command also appealed for calm, urging residents to continue providing credible and timely information that could assist efforts to maintain security across Rivers State.
In the viral footage seen by our correspondent, individuals suspected to be cult members appeared dressed as students while gathered around the renovated police facility.
The group was heard chanting “greatest Nigerian students” at intervals, before reportedly using slogans associated with cult activities.
They were dressed largely in white shirts and black trousers, with some wearing red fez caps while others had black berets. Some police officers were also seen in the footage as the individuals celebrated in front of the facility.
Online anti-cultism platform Naija Confra separately shared videos and photographs purportedly from the scene. The materials showed the suspected cultists chanting slogans, including “Aromate”, at the station after reportedly taking photographs with police officers.
It was gathered that October 15 is observed annually as the anniversary of the Vikings confraternity.