The Rivers State Police Command has queried and removed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Abuloma Division, alongside the officer overseeing a police outpost, following reports that suspected cultists renovated the facility and visited to celebrate the completion of the project.
The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday, October 15, 2026, and attracted public attention after a video circulated on social media.
In a statement issued on Friday, October 16, and signed by ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, the command said it had ordered a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the renovation and verify the allegations.
The Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga A. Adepoju, condemned conduct capable of undermining the integrity, discipline and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force.
The command stressed that police facilities are public institutions established to protect citizens and enforce the law, and must not become platforms through which criminal groups seek influence or recognition.
Investigators have been directed to identify those who financed the renovation, establish whether police officers authorised the work, determine whether the appropriate procedures were followed and ascertain whether any personnel breached professional standards.
The command acknowledged that community contributions can support the improvement of police facilities. However, it maintained that donations must comply with the relevant legal and administrative requirements and must not compromise police independence or security.
It cited Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020 in explaining the framework for gifts and contributions to the Police General Fund.
The command also emphasised that providing funds or materials for a police facility would not confer immunity from investigation or prosecution.
Officers found culpable could face disciplinary action, while further legal proceedings could follow where the evidence warrants them.
The incident has raised concerns about the relationship between community contributions, police oversight and efforts to tackle cultism and organised crime in Rivers State.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to clarify how the renovation was organised, whether the required approvals were obtained and whether any officers violated police procedures.
The command urged members of the public to remain calm and provide credible information to assist security agencies in tackling cultism and other criminal activities.