The Anglican Bishop of the Diocese of Ogbaru, Rt. Rev. Prosper Amah, has urged the Chief of Naval Staff to investigate the alleged brutalisation of an Anglican priest, Revd Tochukwu Agina, by a naval officer at a checkpoint in Anambra State.
In a letter dated December 2, the bishop said the assault occurred on Sunday, November 30, around 5 p.m. at a naval checkpoint in Okpotouno, Ogbaru Local Government Area.
He alleged the priest was attacked “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.”
According to him, eyewitnesses and the victim refuted the claim, insisting the priest was not on a call when the incident happened.
“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 alleged assault as an abuse of power and a violation of human rights and military ethics. He urged naval authorities to identify and discipline the officer involved, and to ensure the matter is handled transparently.
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.”
The bishop said Nigerians still hold the military in high regard and stressed that accountability is necessary to maintain public trust.
“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 Nigerian Navy has yet to comment on the allegation as of the time of filing this report, and PUNCH Online could not independently verify the claims.
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