The Inspector-General of Police has ordered the immediate removal of a Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Rivers State following the controversial renovation and public unveiling of a police station by a group identified as “Aro Bagger,” widely suspected to be a cult organisation. The incident, which took place in the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, has sparked outrage and raised serious questions about the integrity of law enforcement in the region.
The DPO of the Rumuepirikom Police Station was reportedly relieved of duties on October 16, 2026, barely a day after the alleged cult group celebrated its “Humanitarian Day” with the presentation of the refurbished station. The renovation included repainting, roof repairs, and the provision of new furniture, presented during a ceremony on October 15.
A Facebook user initially brought the matter to public attention, sharing details of the event and identifying the group involved. The move by the police high command to remove the DPO signals a strong stance against any perceived fraternisation or endorsement of groups with dubious reputations.
Questions of Legitimacy and Complicity
The “Aro Bagger” group, despite its self-proclaimed “Humanitarian Day” activities, is widely understood by security agencies and the public as a notorious cult outfit known for various criminal activities, including violence, extortion, and communal clashes in parts of the Niger Delta. Their involvement in renovating a state-owned security facility, and the apparent acceptance of this gesture by local police leadership, has been met with widespread condemnation. Critics argue that such actions not only legitimise criminal organisations but also severely undermine public trust in law enforcement’s impartiality and capacity to combat cultism.
Sources within the Rivers State Police Command, who requested anonymity due to the ongoing investigation, confirmed the DPO’s removal. They stated that the action was a direct directive from Abuja, reflecting the Inspector-General’s displeasure over the incident. The command has also initiated a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the renovation and the level of engagement between the police station and the suspected cult group. The decision to remove the DPO followed immediate public outcry and a directive from the police high command.
This incident highlights the pervasive challenge of cultism in the South-South region, where these groups often attempt to exert influence over communities and sometimes even state institutions through a mix of coercion and pseudo-philanthropic gestures. The economic implications for businesses operating in such environments are significant, as insecurity, extortion, and the breakdown of law and order can deter investment and disrupt operations.
Previous reports have detailed instances where cult groups, in a bid to gain social acceptance or project a reformed image, engage in community development projects. However, security experts consistently warn against such overtures, emphasising that these groups primarily operate through intimidation and violence, with their “humanitarian” efforts often serving as a façade for deeper criminal enterprises.
The police authorities are expected to make a formal statement following the conclusion of their investigation. The outcome will likely determine further disciplinary actions against other officers who may have been involved and could lead to a broader review of community engagement protocols for police divisions in volatile areas. The Inspector-General of Police is under pressure to ensure that such occurrences do not erode public confidence in the Nigerian Police Force.
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