In a powerful response to the tragic murder of a Kaduna priest, Nigerian-American Anglican Bishop Rt. Rev'd Dr. Felix Orji has sparked both support and controversy by sharing photographs of himself training at a shooting range.
Bishop's Firm Stance on Self-Defense
The Bishop of Anglican Diocese Of All Nations in Houston, Texas took to Facebook on Friday, November 28, 2025 to express his outrage following the abduction and murder of Ven. Edwin Achi, an Anglican priest from Kaduna. Alongside his condemnation of the violence, Bishop Orji posted images demonstrating his firearm proficiency.
"I believe in defending the vulnerable as well as myself. We have a responsibility to defend our families," the bishop wrote in his social media post, directly addressing the growing security concerns facing Christian communities in Nigeria.
Confronting Criticism Head-On
Facing immediate backlash for his unconventional approach, Bishop Orji did not shy away from defending his position. In a follow-up statement, he posed challenging questions to his critics: "Would you defend your family if someone wants to kill them or would you just let them do it while you watch? I suppose you do not believe countries should have Police and Military Forces to defend the people when they are in danger from terrorists and other murderous miscreants in society."
The bishop's strong words reflect the deepening security crisis in parts of Nigeria, particularly the Kaduna region where religious leaders have increasingly become targets of violence.
Historical Context of Bishop Orji's Journey
This incident is not Bishop Orji's first experience with controversy within church leadership. Back in 2022, the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion suspended him from his position as Coordinating Bishop of the Church of Nigeria North America Mission (CONNAM) and Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of the West.
The suspension came after Bishop Orji left his original mission to join the Anglican Diocese Of All Nations, Anglican Church in North America (ACNA), marking a significant transition in his ecclesiastical career that continues to shape his approach to ministry and public engagement.
The bishop's current actions have ignited broader conversations about self-defense, religious freedom, and the appropriate response to targeted violence against Christian communities in Nigeria.
