Rivers Police DPO, Officers Dismissed After Cultists Renovate Abuloma Outpost

The Rivers State Police Command has strongly condemned a widely circulated media report and video showing alleged cult members renovating the Abuloma Police Outpost and subsequently celebrating its completion on Thursday, October 15. The footage, which quickly gained traction online, depicted suspected cultists at the facility, drawing widespread criticism and sparking considerable public debate against the police force.

In response to the incident, ASP Agabe Blessing, the Command's spokesperson, issued a statement. She unequivocally denounced "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." Agabe further emphasized that police facilities are established public institutions designed to protect citizens and uphold the law, and as such, they must not be exploited by criminal organizations seeking public validation or influence.

As a direct consequence of the controversy, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Abuloma Division and the Divisional Officer responsible for the affected Police Outpost have both been issued queries and relieved of their duties. This action is pending the outcome of a comprehensive investigation ordered by the Commissioner of Police. The Commissioner's directive calls for a full inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the incident and to verify the allegations. The investigation will also seek to identify the individuals or groups who funded or facilitated the renovation, determine which police officers authorized or approved the project, ascertain if due procedures were followed, establish whether any officer breached professional standards or compromised the Force's integrity, and assess the full extent of any police personnel involvement.