ABULOMA POLICE OUTPOST CONTROVERSY: RIVERS CP RELIEVES TWO OFFICERS, ORDERS FULL PROBE INTO ALLEGED CULTISTS’ RENOVATION
Rivers State Police Command relieves the Abuloma DPO and an outpost officer pending investigation into allegations that suspected cultists renovated the police facility. CP Olugbenga Adepoju orders a full probe into the incident.
The Rivers State Police Command has ordered a full investigation into a trending social media report and video alleging that suspected cultists renovated the Abuloma Police Outpost in Port Harcourt and visited the facility on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to celebrate the completion of the project.
In a decisive response to the controversy, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, psc, mnips, fcai, has relieved the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Abuloma Division and the Divisional Officer overseeing the affected outpost of their duties pending the outcome of the investigation.
The Command said the investigation would establish the facts surrounding the renovation, determine whether proper procedures were followed and identify any possible misconduct or improper association involving police personnel.
RIVERS POLICE CONDEMNS ALLEGED ASSOCIATION WITH SUSPECTED CULTISTS
The Command strongly condemned any action or association capable of undermining the integrity, discipline and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the Police, police facilities are public institutions established to protect lives, enforce the law and maintain public order. They must not become platforms through which suspected criminal groups seek recognition, influence or public acceptance.
The Command reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on cultism, organised crime and any conduct capable of weakening public confidence in the Police.
However, the allegations surrounding the Abuloma Police Outpost remain subject to investigation, and the Command has stated that the facts must be established before appropriate conclusions are reached.
WHY WERE THE ABULOMA POLICE OFFICERS RELIEVED OF THEIR DUTIES?
As part of the immediate response, CP Adepoju directed that the two officers overseeing the affected police facilities be relieved of their duties pending investigation.
The full investigation will examine several key questions, including:
- 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 the required procedures and approvals were followed.
- Whether any police personnel breached professional standards or compromised the integrity of the Force.
- The extent of any involvement by police officers in the circumstances surrounding the renovation.
The Command said disciplinary and legal action would be taken against anyone found culpable, in accordance with the findings and applicable laws.
CAN MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC RENOVATE POLICE FACILITIES?
The Rivers State Police Command clarified that it recognises legitimate community support for improving police facilities.
It cited Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, which provides for gifts and contributions to the Police General Fund.
However, the Command stressed that any support or donation must comply with the appropriate procedures and must not compromise police independence, security or professional standards.
The ongoing investigation will therefore determine whether the renovation received the necessary approvals and whether appropriate checks were conducted on those who financed or facilitated the project.
The Police also emphasised that no donation or assistance grants anyone immunity from investigation or prosecution.
CP ADEPOJU REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO ACCOUNTABILITY
The Command reiterated that it would not condone unprofessional conduct, compromise or improper association with criminal elements by any police officer.
It further stated that all personnel are expected to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity, transparency and accountability in carrying out their duties.
The investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether any individual or officer violated the law or established police procedures.
The Command maintained that its commitment to professionalism and the fight against cultism and organised crime remains firm.
RESIDENTS URGED TO REMAIN CALM AND SHARE CREDIBLE INFORMATION
The Rivers State Police Command has urged members of the public to remain calm and continue supporting security efforts by providing credible and timely information.
Residents who have relevant information or complaints concerning police conduct can contact the Command through the following channels.
Rivers State Police Complaint Response Unit (CRU)
- 07057605209
- 07057605256
- 08120822987
- 07072323049
Police Control Room
- 08032003514
The Command said public cooperation remains important in strengthening security, protecting lives and property, and sustaining public confidence in law enforcement.
CONCLUSION
The controversy surrounding the alleged renovation of the Abuloma Police Outpost has prompted immediate administrative action and a full investigation by the Rivers State Police Command.
With two officers relieved of their duties pending the probe, the focus now shifts to determining who financed and approved the project, whether due procedures were followed, and whether any misconduct occurred.
The outcome of the investigation will determine the next steps, including any disciplinary or legal action against persons found responsible.
