Families in Abuloma, Rivers State, watched videos this week that many could hardly believe: suspected cultists celebrating at their local police post.
The Rivers State Police Command has now responded to a media report and a circulating video alleging that suspected cultists renovated the Abuloma Police Outpost and visited the facility on Thursday, October 15, to mark the completion of the work.
The videos spread online on Thursday and sparked debate, with many people condemning the police command.
In a statement, the command’s spokesperson, ASP Agabe Blessing, said the police strongly condemned ‘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.’
Agabe said police facilities are public institutions set up to protect citizens and enforce the law.
She said they must not become platforms through which criminal groups seek public validation or influence.
She added that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Abuloma Division and the Divisional Officer overseeing the affected outpost have been queried and relieved of their duties pending investigation.
The Commissioner of Police has also ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident and whether the allegations are true. The investigation will seek to establish:
The identities and backgrounds of the individuals or groups who financed or facilitated the renovation
The police officers who authorised or approved the project
Whether due procedures were followed
Whether any officer breached professional standards or compromised the integrity of the Force
The extent of any involvement by police personnel
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