Rivers: DPO removed over alleged renovation of police station by cultists

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Abuloma Division and the DPO overseeing a nearby police outpost were suspended by the Rivers State Police Command after allegations surfaced that cultists had renovated their facilities. Police spokesperson ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo announced the removals, stating that the action was taken following a trending social media report and a video shared by anti-cultism platform Naija Confra.

The video purportedly showed suspected Vikings cult members chanting slogans in front of the Abuloma Police Outpost and interacting with police officers inside the facility. The incident allegedly occurred on October 15, the anniversary of the Vikings confraternity. The police investigation will determine the identities and backgrounds of those involved in financing or facilitating the renovation, as well as whether proper procedures were followed.

The command condemned any actions that could compromise the integrity, discipline and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force or give legitimacy to suspected cult groups. They stressed that police facilities are public institutions meant to protect citizens and enforce the law, and should not be used as platforms for criminal groups to gain public recognition or influence.