Rivers State police remove officers over suspected cultist-funded station renovation

The Rivers State Police Command has relieved the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Abuloma Division and an officer overseeing a local police outpost of their duties. The removals follow allegations that a suspected cult group, identified in some reports as “Aro Bagger” or members of the DNKI (Vikings), financed and celebrated the renovation of the Abuloma Police Outpost.

A video circulating on social media reportedly showed suspected cultists at the facility on October 15, 2026, to mark the completion of work that included repainting, roof repairs, and new furniture. The incident has sparked public outrage and raised concerns regarding the integrity of law enforcement and the potential for criminal organizations to gain legitimacy through state institutions.

Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju has ordered a full investigation to identify those who financed the project and to determine if any police personnel breached professional standards or bypassed required procedures. While the Command noted that community support for police facilities is legal under the Nigeria Police Act 2020, it emphasized that such contributions must not compromise police independence, security, or professional standards.