Nigeria: Police Remove DPO After Suspected Cultists Renovate Station

What the report says

The Rivers State Police Command has removed the divisional police officer in charge of Abuloma Division, along with the officer responsible for a nearby police outpost, after allegations that suspected cultists helped renovate the facility. According to Premium Times, which reported the story on 16 October 2026 and was distributed by AllAfrica, the command also ordered an investigation into how the renovation was arranged and whether any officers were involved in approving it.

The issue drew public attention after a video circulated on Facebook showing men described as suspected cultists at the outpost during what appeared to be a handover ceremony. A Facebook user identified the group as “Aro Bagger” and said the event was linked to the group’s 2026 “Humanitarian Day celebration” on 15 October. Police said the footage and related claims raised concerns about conduct that could undermine discipline and professional standards.

In its statement, the command said it would examine who financed or facilitated the renovation, which officers authorized the project, and whether procedures were followed. It noted that community support for police facilities is allowed under the Nigeria Police Act 2020, but stressed that such support must not affect police independence or security. The command said any person found culpable could face disciplinary or legal action, and it urged residents to stay calm while providing useful information to support anti-cultism efforts.