The Rivers State Police Command has suspended the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Abuloma Division and a divisional officer overseeing a police outpost following allegations that suspected cultists financed the renovation of the facility.
The officers have been queried and relieved of their duties pending an investigation into the incident, the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, Blessing Agabe, disclosed in a statement on Friday.
The development followed reports that suspected cultists in Abuloma, within Port Harcourt City Local Government Area, funded the renovation of the police outpost and later visited the facility on Thursday, October 15, to celebrate its completion.
The command condemned any action that could undermine the integrity and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force or give suspected cult groups legitimacy.
In the statement, Agabe said police facilities were public institutions established to protect citizens and enforce the law, adding that they must not become platforms for criminal groups seeking public recognition or influence.
She said the command, under Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju, maintained zero tolerance for criminality and conduct capable of eroding public confidence in the police.
Investigation Ordered
Agabe said the commissioner had ordered a full investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the renovation and verify the allegations.
The investigation will identify the individuals or groups that financed or facilitated the project, determine which officers authorised or approved it, and establish whether any police personnel were involved.
The command clarified that it welcomed legitimate community contributions towards improving police facilities, in line with Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, which provides for gifts and contributions to the Police General Fund.
However, Agabe stressed that such support must not compromise police independence, security or professional standards.
She added that investigators would determine whether the renovation received the necessary approvals and whether appropriate checks were conducted on those who funded or facilitated the project.
