The Diocese of Ogbaru, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), has condemned the brutal assault of one of its priests by a Nigerian Navy officer at a checkpoint in Anambra State.
According to Rt. Rev. Prosper A. Amah, JP, Bishop of Ogbaru, the incident occurred on Sunday, November 30, 2025, around 5 p.m., when Revd. Tochukwu Agina was falsely accused of using a phone while approaching a naval checkpoint at Okpotouno in Ogbaru Local Government Area.
Despite clearly identifying himself as a clergyman through both his attire and words, the priest was reportedly beaten and subjected to degrading treatment. He was later treated at the Navy clinic.
In an open letter to the Chief of Naval Staff, Bishop Amah condemned the assault as an abuse of power that violated fundamental human rights, the military code of conduct, and professional ethics. He described Agina as a peaceful and law-abiding citizen, stressing that no circumstances justify such dehumanisation by security personnel.
The diocese demanded a thorough and transparent investigation, disciplinary action against the officer involved, official communication to reassure the affected family and community, measures to prevent future incidents through improved training on civilian-military relations, and adequate compensation for the clergyman.
“The uniform of the Nigerian Navy symbolizes honor, discipline, and service—not intimidation or oppression,” the bishop said, urging the Navy to uphold its professional standards and protect citizens’ dignity.