Anglican Bishop Calls on Navy to Probe Alleged Assault on Priest in Anambra
Anglican Bishop of Ogbaru Diocese, Rt Rev Prosper Amah, has urged the Chief of Naval Staff to investigate an alleged assault on an Anglican priest by a naval officer in Anambra State.
In a letter dated December 2, the bishop said the incident occurred on Sunday, November 30, around 5:00 p.m. at a naval checkpoint in Okpotouno, Ogbaru Local Government Area.
He alleged that Revd Tochukwu Agina was attacked over a false claim that he was using a phone at the checkpoint.
“On Sunday, 30th November 2025, at about 5pm, a deeply disturbing incident occurred at a naval checkpoint located at Okpotouno, Ogbaru Local Government Area, where a naval officer brutalised an Anglican priest of the Diocese of Ogbaru under a false allegation that he was making a phone call at the checkpoint,” the bishop wrote.
Amah stated that eyewitnesses and the priest confirmed he was not using a phone at the time.
“Credible eyewitness accounts and the victim’s testimony confirm that the priest was not making any call at the time of the encounter, yet he was subjected to physical assault and inhumane treatment. Even though they gave him first aid treatment at the naval clinic,” he added.
Describing the officer’s actions as an abuse of authority, the bishop said they violated human rights, the military code of conduct, and the professional ethics of the Nigerian Navy.
He called for a “thorough, transparent, and independent investigation” and appropriate disciplinary action.
“While we acknowledge their service to the nation, no circumstance justifies brutality, false accusation, or the dehumanisation of any Nigerian citizen. The uniform of the Nigerian Navy symbolises honour, discipline, and service — not intimidation or oppression. Remember, the priest identified himself both in dressing and words,” Amah wrote.
He also requested official communication and reassurance for the affected family, church, and community, preventive measures through renewed training on civilian–military relations, and adequate compensation for the clergyman.
“Your Excellency, Nigerians still hold the Armed Forces in high esteem. It is only through justice, accountability, and swift corrective actions that public confidence in our security institutions can be preserved. We trust in your leadership to ensure this matter is addressed with the seriousness it deserves. Justice for one citizen is justice for all,” the bishop concluded.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
