By our reporter 2.12.2025
The Chief of Naval Staff has been called upon by the Anglican Bishop of the Diocese of Ogbaru, Anambra State Rt Rev Prosper Amah, to discipline an officer who assaulted a priest, Reverend Tochukwu Agina for allegedly using a mobile phone at a checkpoint.
According to the Bishop, the incident occurred on Sunday, November 30, around 5:00 p.m. at a naval checkpoint in Okpotouno, Ogbaru Local Government Area.
A letter of protest forwarded to the CNS by Bishop Amah said the naval officer’s action was an abuse of power and a “clear violation of fundamental human rights, the military code of conduct, and the professional ethics of the Nigerian Navy.”
“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.”Bishop Amah said in the letter.
He added that “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.”
