The Diocese of Atamunu (Methodist Church Nigeria) in Cross River State has refuted allegations of assault made by a priest, Rev. Victor Okon Uloh, against the Bishop of the diocese, Rev. Otuekong Alexander Ukut.

Uloh alleged that Ukut assaulted him, forced him to kneel, and threatened to strike him with a crosier. According to Uloh, the bishop also removed the cross pendant from his neck, a symbol of ordination and ministerial dignity, which he claimed only the Prelate of the church has the authority to do. Uloh stated that he had filed a formal complaint, supported by a medical report indicating injuries to his hearing.

However, in a statement signed by Bishop Ukut, Lay President Dr Gabriel Inyang, and Synod Secretary Rev. Anthony Bassey, the diocese dismissed the allegations as baseless.

“The sponsor, a priest and full-time student of the University of Calabar, currently undergoing disciplinary proceedings, is attempting to derail the course of justice under the 2021 Methodist Church Nigeria Constitution and Book of Resolutions,” the statement read.

The diocese further disclosed that Uloh had been advised to undergo neuro-psychiatric and mental evaluations by professionals.