A viral video showing suspected cult members celebrating the renovation of a police outpost in Rivers State has sparked public outrage and forced the Police Command to remove two senior officers from their positions.
The incident happened at the Abuloma Police Outpost in Port Harcourt, where the alleged cultists were said to have financed the renovation before visiting the facility to mark its completion.
The Rivers State Police Command described the incident as disturbing and said it would not tolerate any relationship between police officers and criminal groups.
In response, the Command queried and relieved the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Abuloma Division and the officer supervising the outpost of their duties pending the outcome of an investigation.
The Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, also ordered a full probe to find out who paid for the renovation, who approved it, and whether any police officer violated the rules.
The Police said investigators would also establish the identities of those behind the project and determine if officers compromised the integrity of the Force.
The Command stressed that police stations belong to the public and “must not become platforms through which criminal groups seek public validation or influence.”
While acknowledging that communities can legally support the renovation of police facilities, the Command said every donation must follow due process and proper background checks.
It added that “No donation or assistance confers immunity from investigation or prosecution.”
The Command assured residents that any officer or individual found guilty would face disciplinary and legal action.
The controversy comes as security agencies continue efforts to curb cult-related violence in Rivers State, making the allegations even more sensitive and raising fresh concerns about public trust in law enforcement.