Two senior officers face queries and dismissal after a viral video showed suspected cult members celebrating at a Rivers police facility.
Two senior police officers in Rivers State have been removed from their positions following allegations that suspected cultists renovated a police facility under their jurisdiction. The affected personnel include the Divisional Police Officer of the Abuloma Police Division and the officer overseeing the local outpost.
The swift disciplinary action followed a viral social media video showing suspected cult members visiting the station on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to celebrate the completion of the renovation project. The footage quickly drew widespread public attention and intense scrutiny regarding professional standards within the force.
Rivers State Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju formally announced the dismissals in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Friday by command spokesperson Blessing Agabe, according to information published by punchng.
Rivers State Police Command Action
The Rivers State Police Command strongly condemned any association capable of compromising institutional integrity or conferring legitimacy on unlawful organizations. Police facilities exist strictly for public protection and law enforcement, meaning they must never serve as validation platforms for criminal groups.
Under the leadership of CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, the command maintains a strict zero tolerance policy toward misconduct. Consequently, the DPO in charge of the Abuloma Division and the local outpost supervisor were immediately queried and relieved of their duties pending further inquiries.
Full Investigation Into Station Renovation
Commissioner Adepoju ordered a comprehensive investigation to establish how the renovation occurred and whether proper administrative procedures were followed. Investigators will examine the identities and backgrounds of the individuals or groups who financed the project.
The inquiry will also determine whether any police personnel breached professional standards or compromised force integrity by accepting unauthorized assistance. Officials stressed that community support remains welcome under the Nigeria Police Act 2020, provided it never compromises security or independence.
Viral Video and Cult Anniversary Context
In the widely circulated video, the suspected individuals appeared to pose as students by chanting slogans like greatest Nigerian students. They wore black trousers, white shirts, and specific headwear such as red fez caps and black berets.
Online anti-cultism platforms also shared footage showing the individuals shouting slogans such as Aromate at the station. Reports indicated that the gathering coincided with the annual anniversary celebrations of the Vikings confraternity held across the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the Rivers police officers removed from their posts?
The Divisional Police Officer of Abuloma and the outpost supervisor were removed after a viral video showed suspected cultists celebrating the renovation of the police facility.
Who ordered the investigation into the Abuloma police station renovation?
Rivers State Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju ordered a full scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the unauthorized renovation and the roles played by local officers.
What organization claimed responsibility or involvement in the station visit?
Suspected members of the Vikings confraternity visited the station on October 15, 2026, marking their annual anniversary while wearing matching shirts and caps.
Is community support for police stations allowed under Nigerian law?
Legitimate community support is permitted under Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, but it must not compromise police independence or involve criminal groups.
