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Sunday, October 18, 2026

Alleged cultists celebrate at Rivers police outpost they renovated; CP sanctions DPO

The police commissioner has ordered a full investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

• October 18, 2026
Abuloma police division
Abuloma police division [Credit: Portharcourt Magazine via Facebook]

The Rivers State Police Command has relieved the divisional police officer in charge of Abuloma Division and a divisional officer over the renovation of a police outpost in the community by suspected cultists.

The state police spokesperson, Agabe Kaborlo, disclosed this in a statement on Friday and condemned the action, saying it could compromise the integrity, discipline, and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force.

“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 police said.

She reiterated the police’s zero tolerance for criminality and actions that undermine public trust in the institution.

“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.

“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,” the police said.

According to the statement, the police commissioner has ordered a full investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and the veracity of the allegations.

The investigation is aimed at ascertaining “the identities and backgrounds of the individuals or groups who financed or facilitated the renovation; the police officers who authorised or approved the project; whether due procedures were followed; whether any officer breached professional standards or compromised the integrity of the force; and the extent of any involvement by police personnel.”

The police said that while legitimate support for facilities is welcomed, they must not compromise police independence, professional standards or security.

The command assured that the investigation will establish whether the necessary approvals were obtained and appropriate checks conducted on those who financed or facilitated the renovation, adding that no donation or assistance confers immunity from investigation or prosecution.

The Command vowed not to condone unprofessional conduct or improper association with criminal elements by police officers, urging personnel to uphold discipline, integrity and accountability.

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