By: Odeh Favour
The Rivers State Police Command has taken cognizance of a viral 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.
Reacting to the incident, the Command strongly condemned 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 organizations.
The Police Command emphasized that police facilities are public institutions established for the protection of citizens and the enforcement of law, insisting that they must not become platforms through which criminal groups seek public validation or influence.
Under the leadership of CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, the Command maintained a zero-tolerance stance 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 comprehensive probe to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and the veracity of the allegations.
The scope of the investigation includes identifying the individuals or groups who financed or facilitated the renovation, determining which police officers authorized or approved the project, and establishing whether due procedures were followed.
The probe will also determine whether any officer breached professional standards or compromised the integrity of the Force, as well as the extent of any involvement by police personnel.
Addressing community involvement, the Command noted that it 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, the police clarified that 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, stressing that no donation or assistance confers immunity from investigation or prosecution.
Reiterating its commitment to discipline, the Command stated that it will not condone unprofessional conduct, compromise, or any form of improper association with criminal elements by any police officer, expecting all personnel to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity, and accountability in the discharge of their duties.
The Command affirmed its continued commitment to professionalism, transparency, the protection of lives and property, and the fight against cultism and organized crime, adding that appropriate disciplinary and legal action will be taken against anyone found culpable in line with the outcome of the investigation and extant laws.
Urging public calm, the Command appealed to members of the public to remain calm and continue supporting the police with credible and timely information to enhance security across Rivers State.
The official release was issued by ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, Police Public Relations Officer, for the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Police Command.
