The Nigerian Navy has arrested a clergyman identified as Pastor Ime in connection with alleged militancy activities, simultaneously announcing a significant tightening of security operations across the Calabar waterways in Cross River State — a development that has sent shockwaves through the region and ignited fierce public debate.
The arrest of a pastor on militancy-related allegations has drawn widespread attention and disbelief from many Nigerians, raising urgent questions about the alleged involvement of religious figures in militant activities along Nigeria’s southern waterways.
Naval authorities confirmed that Pastor Ime was apprehended following credible intelligence linking him to militant operations in the Calabar axis — stressing that the arrest forms part of a broader and intensified security sweep designed to neutralise all threats to peace, stability, and legitimate maritime activities along the strategically important Calabar waterways.
The Nigerian Navy described the arrest as a significant operational success, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining maritime security, law and order, and the protection of lives and livelihoods along Nigeria’s extensive network of inland waterways and coastal communities.
In the wake of the arrest, the Navy has deployed additional patrol vessels, personnel, and surveillance assets across the Calabar waterways — conducting stop-and-search operations, intelligence-led patrols, and community engagement exercises aimed at rooting out militant elements and restoring full confidence among waterway users, fishing communities, and maritime traders.
Community leaders and residents along the Calabar waterways have expressed a mixture of shock, relief, and cautious optimism following the arrest and the Navy’s intensified security presence — with many welcoming the crackdown while urging authorities to ensure that innocent civilians are not caught up in the security operations.
Religious leaders in Cross River State have called for transparency and due process in the handling of Pastor Ime’s case, urging the Navy and relevant authorities to ensure that the arrested clergyman’s rights are fully respected and that the allegations against him are thoroughly and fairly investigated before any conclusions are drawn.
Human rights advocates have equally stressed the importance of presumption of innocence, calling on security agencies to handle the case with the professionalism, transparency, and adherence to rule of law that the gravity of the allegations demands.
The Cross River State Government is yet to issue an official statement on the arrest, but sources indicate that state security officials are in close communication with the Navy regarding the development and its implications for security across the state.
The Navy has urged residents of Calabar and surrounding waterway communities to remain calm, cooperate with security personnel, and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest naval or police authority.
CDA News Nigeria will continue to monitor this developing story and bring you comprehensive updates as they emerge.
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