Reported by: Ime Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
The Anglican Diocese of Ogbaru has called for a full investigation into the alleged brutalisation of an Anglican priest by a naval officer at a checkpoint in Anambra State. The incident, which reportedly occurred around 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 30, took place at the naval checkpoint in Okpotouno, Ogbaru Local Government Area, sparking outrage within the church community and beyond.
In a formal petition dated December 2 and addressed to the Chief of Naval Staff, the Bishop of Ogbaru Diocese, Rt. Rev. Prosper Amah, alleged that the victim, Revd. Tochukwu Agina, was physically assaulted “under a false allegation that he was making a phone call at the checkpoint.” The bishop maintained that credible eyewitness accounts confirmed that the priest was not using a phone at the time of the encounter, stating that he was subjected instead to unwarranted force and degrading treatment.
Amah condemned the officer’s conduct, describing it 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 asserted that while security forces have a constitutional duty to protect national integrity, such authority must never be used to intimidate or dehumanise citizens—particularly a clearly identified clergy member.
While acknowledging that the injured priest later received first aid at a naval medical facility, the bishop insisted that the gesture did not eliminate the need for accountability. He called for a “thorough, transparent, and independent investigation,” disciplinary action against the responsible personnel, official communication to the affected church community, and compensation for the assaulted priest. He further recommended improved training for naval personnel on civilian engagement and rules of conduct.
The bishop emphasised that Nigerians continue to respect the Armed Forces, expressing confidence that responsible leadership within the Navy will handle the matter fairly and decisively. “It is only through justice, accountability, and swift corrective actions that public confidence in our security institutions can be preserved,” he stated.
The Nigerian Navy has not yet issued an official statement in response to the petition. Meanwhile, the incident has ignited conversations over military–civil relations and concerns over reports of excesses at security checkpoints in civilian communities.
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