Rivers police suspend two DPOs over renovation of outpost by suspected cultists

The Rivers State Police Command has suspended two senior officers from their duties pending an investigation into allegations that suspected cultists renovated a police outpost in Abuloma and visited the facility to celebrate its completion.

The affected officers are the divisional police officer (DPO) in charge of Abuloma Division and the divisional officer overseeing the police outpost.

Agabe Kaborlo, the police command’s spokesperson, disclosed this in a statement on Friday following reports and a video circulating on social media about the alleged renovation.

The command condemned any action or association capable of undermining the integrity, discipline and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force or giving suspected cult groups legitimacy.

“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,” the statement said.

The command added that the two officers had been queried and relieved of their duties pending the outcome of the investigation.

Olugbenga Adepoju, the state commissioner of police, has ordered an investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and verify the allegations.

According to the statement, the investigation will determine the identities of those who financed or facilitated the renovation, the officers who authorised the project, whether due procedures were followed and whether any police personnel compromised professional standards.

The command acknowledged that community members could contribute to improving police facilities under Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, which provides for gifts and contributions to the police general fund.

However, it stressed that such contributions 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,” the statement added.

The command further emphasised that donations or assistance would not grant anyone immunity from investigation or prosecution.

It reiterated its commitment to holding officers accountable for unprofessional conduct, compromise or improper associations with criminal elements.