According to the bishop, the priest was attacked around 5 p.m. after the naval officer falsely accused him of making a phone call while approaching the checkpoint.
Despite identifying himself clearly as a clergyman both in dressing and words, the priest was reportedly beaten and subjected to degrading treatment.
He was later taken to the Navy clinic, where first aid treatment was administered.
The church condemned the incident as a blatant abuse of power, saying the conduct of the officer violated the fundamental human rights of the priest, the military code of conduct, and the professional ethics expected of a naval operative.
Describing Agina as a peaceful and law-abiding citizen, the church insisted that no circumstance justifies the dehumanisation of any Nigerian by security personnel.
The statement read, “With deep respect for your esteemed office and the noble role of the Nigerian Navy in safeguarding our nation, I write this open letter with a heavy heart but with confidence in your commitment to justice, discipline, and professionalism within the Armed Forces.
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.
“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.”
“Your Excellency, the priest – Revd Tochukwu Agina, is not only a minister of the Gospel but also a peaceful, law-abiding Nigerian citizen, deserving of the protection of the law and the dignity guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). The action of this officer, is not only an abuse of authority but a clear violation of: Fundamental human rights, Military code of conduct, and the professional ethics of the Nigerian Navy,” he said.
The diocese noted that the “uniform of the Nigerian Navy symbolizes honor, discipline, and service-not intimidation or oppression,” adding the “priest identified himself both in dressing and words”.
It said, “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.”
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