Cultism Scandal Rocks Rivers Police As CP Removes Two Officers

Two senior police officers, including the Divisional Police Officer of the Abuloma Police Division in Rivers State, have been removed from their positions following allegations that suspected cultists renovated a police facility under their jurisdiction.

The other officer is the divisional officer overseeing the affected police outpost.

The Rivers State Police Command disclosed this in a statement issued by its spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe, in Port Harcourt, last Friday.

The Police said the action followed a viral video showing suspected cultists visiting the facility on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to celebrate the completion of the renovation.

The statement, titled ‘Rivers State Police Command Condemns Purported Renovation of Abuloma Police Outpost by Suspected Cultists, Relieves Officers, Orders Full Investigation’, said the command had ordered a full investigation into the incident.

The command 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 organisations.

The police image maker said the State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, had ordered a full-scale investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the renovation and the veracity of the allegations.

The identities and backgrounds of the individuals or groups that financed or facilitated the renovation would also be investigated, alongside the roles played by police personnel.

The statement read, “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 Command strongly condemns 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.

“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.

“Under the leadership of CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, the Command maintains zero tolerance 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 full investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and the veracity of the allegations, including the identities and backgrounds of the individuals or groups who financed or facilitated the renovation.”

The statement added that the investigation would examine whether the project was authorised, whether due procedures were followed, and whether any police officer breached professional standards or compromised the integrity of the force.

It said, “The Command 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, 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.

“No donation or assistance confers immunity from investigation or prosecution.

“The Command reiterates that it will not condone unprofessional conduct or compromise any form of improper association with criminal elements by any police officer.

“All personnel are expected to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity and accountability in the discharge of their duties.”

The command said appropriate disciplinary and legal action would be taken against anyone found culpable, in line with the outcome of the investigation and extant laws.

It urged members of the public to remain calm and continue to provide credible and timely information to the police to enhance security across the State.

The Tide reports that a viral video circulated online had shown suspected cultists posing as students, occasionally chanting “greatest Nigerian students” before using what appeared to be cult-related slogans.

The individuals were seen wearing black trousers and white shirts, with some wearing red fez caps and others black berets, celebrating in front of the renovated facility alongside some police officers.

A popular online anti-cultism platform, Naija Confra, also posted videos and pictures showing the suspected cultists chanting slogans, including “Aromate”, at the station last Thursday, shortly after taking pictures with officers at the facility.

The incident, which occurred on October 15, 2026, was said to have coincided with activities marking the annual anniversary of the Vikings confraternity.