DPO Suspended As Cultists Renovate Police Station In Rivers

 

By: Awajis Josiah-Chijindu 

The Rivers State Police Command has relieved the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Abuloma Division and the officer overseeing the Abuloma Police Outpost of their duties following allegations that suspected cultists financed the renovation of the police facility and visited it to celebrate the completion of the project.

The Command also ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the controversial renovation after a video and reports of the incident circulated widely on social media.

According to the police, the individuals alleged to be cultists reportedly visited the facility on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to celebrate the completion of the renovation they were said to have facilitated.

In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Blessing Agabe, said it had taken cognizance of the viral video and allegations and had begun steps to establish the facts.

It strongly condemned any relationship or activity capable of compromising the independence, integrity and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force.

“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,” the statement said.

It stressed that police facilities are public institutions established for the protection of citizens and enforcement of the law and must never become platforms through which criminal organisations seek influence, recognition or public legitimacy.

The Command said Commissioner Adepoju maintains zero tolerance for criminality as well as actions by police personnel capable of undermining public confidence in the Force.

Consequently, the DPO in charge of Abuloma Division and the Divisional Officer overseeing the affected outpost have been queried and relieved of their duties pending the outcome of the investigation.

The police said the investigation would establish the identities and backgrounds of the individuals or groups who financed or facilitated the renovation and determine how they became involved in the project.

Investigators will also establish which police officers authorised or approved the renovation, whether the appropriate procedures were followed and whether any officer breached professional standards or compromised the integrity of the Force.

It cited Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, which provides for gifts and contributions to the Police General Fund.

It nevertheless stressed that such assistance must be subjected to appropriate scrutiny and must never compromise police independence, professional standards or security.

According to the Command, investigators will determine whether the necessary approvals were obtained for the Abuloma renovation and whether appropriate background checks were conducted on those who financed or facilitated the project.

“No donation or assistance confers immunity from investigation or prosecution,” the police warned.

The Command said it would not tolerate unprofessional conduct, compromise or improper association between police personnel and criminal elements, adding that every officer is expected to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity and accountability.

It assured residents that appropriate disciplinary and legal action would be taken against anyone found culpable after the investigation.