Anglican priest attacked by naval officer in Anambra, prompting bishop’s demand for probe

The Anglican Bishop of the Diocese of Ogbaru, Rt Rev Prosper Amah, has called on the Chief of Naval Staff to probe an alleged assault on an Anglican priest by a naval officer in Anambra State.

In a letter dated December 2, the bishop stated that the incident occurred on Sunday, November 30, at approximately 5:00 p.m. at a naval checkpoint in Okpotouno, Ogbaru Local Government Area of the state.

He alleged that Revd Tochukwu Agina was assaulted “under a false allegation that he was making a phone call at the checkpoint.”

The bishop wrote, “On Sunday, 30th November 2025, at about 5pm, a deeply disturbing incident occurred at a naval checkpoint located at Okpotouno, Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, 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 said eyewitness accounts and the priest’s testimony confirmed that 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 wrote.

Amah described the officer’s actions as “not only an abuse of authority but a clear violation of fundamental human rights, the military code of conduct, and the professional ethics of the Nigerian Navy.”

He urged the naval authorities to carry out a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into the incident and to take appropriate action.

He added, “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.

“We therefore respectfully but firmly request the following: a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into this incident. Identification and appropriate disciplinary action against the officer involved. Official communication and reassurance to the affected family, church, and community. Measures to prevent future occurrences through renewed training on civilian–military relations and rules of engagement. Adequate compensation should be given to the clergyman.”

He added that Nigerians still respect the Armed Forces.

“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 and sense of duty to ensure that this matter is addressed with the seriousness it deserves. Justice for one citizen is justice for all,” he said.

The Punch