RIVERS POLICE CONDEMN ALLEGED CULTIST RENOVATION OF ABULOMA OUTPOST, RELIEVE OFFICERS
By Emeka Amaefula
The Rivers State Police Command has condemned reports that suspected cultists renovated the Abuloma Police Outpost and visited the facility on Thursday to celebrate the completed work, describing any such association as a threat to the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force.
In a statement on Friday, Police Public Relations Officer ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo said the Command had taken note of a trending social media video and report alleging the renovation. She stressed that police facilities are public institutions meant for the protection of citizens and enforcement of the law, and must never become platforms for criminal groups seeking public validation or influence.
“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,” the statement said.
Under Commissioner of Police Olugbenga A. Adepoju, the Command maintains zero tolerance for criminality and any conduct that undermines public confidence in the police.
As an immediate response, the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Abuloma Division and the officer overseeing the affected outpost have been queried and relieved of their duties pending investigation.
CP Adepoju has ordered a full probe to establish the facts. Investigators will determine the identities and backgrounds of those who financed or facilitated the renovation, identify any police officers who authorised or approved the project, assess whether due procedures were followed, and examine whether any officer breached professional standards or compromised the Force’s integrity.
The Command said it welcomes legitimate community support for improving police facilities, in line with Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, which allows gifts and contributions to the Police General Fund. However, such support must not undermine police independence, professional standards or security. The investigation will verify whether necessary approvals were obtained and proper checks conducted on the financiers. No donation or assistance, the statement emphasised, confers immunity from investigation or prosecution.
The Command reiterated that it will not condone unprofessional conduct or any improper association with criminal elements. All personnel are expected to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity and accountability.
It reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, the protection of lives and property, and the fight against cultism and organised crime. Appropriate disciplinary and legal action will be taken against anyone found culpable.
Members of the public were urged to remain calm and continue providing credible and timely information to support security efforts across Rivers State.using the following channels to reach the Police Complaint Response Unit: 07057605209,07057605256, 08120822987,07072323049 and Police Control Room: 08032003514.
The Police Command in Rivers State under the Commissioner of Police CP Olugbenga Adepoju has been proactive in curtail crime rate in the state.
—-Emeka Amaefula—–+234(0)8111813069—
