Visit to Togo Prison Brings Renewed Hope to Imprisoned Church Member

A delegation of Seventh-day Adventist Church leaders recently conducted a pastoral visit to Bruno Amah, a church member who has been in prison with a life sentence at the Civil Prison of Lomé, Togo, since 2012. The visit, which took place on November 14, brought renewed solidarity, spiritual encouragement, and strengthened advocacy on behalf of a man whose unwavering faith is inspiring, church leaders reported.

Historical Background

The saga began on March 15, 2012, when Adventist pastor Antonio Monteiro and Amah were arrested in Lomé, Togo, after a troubled former inmate—later assessed as psychologically unstable—implicated them in a series of murders amid widespread public panic, unverified rumors of ritual practices, and intense political pressure on authorities to produce quick results. Despite the absence of forensic evidence, a media-orchestrated arrest, and serious procedural irregularities, both men were detained under harsh conditions.

After months of international advocacy and global prayer, Monteiro was fully exonerated on January 13, 2014, while Amah—though widely believed to be innocent—was handed a life sentence and has remained imprisoned ever since, quietly continuing to serve the Lord behind bars.

Warm Reception and a Remarkable Encounter

The initiative was led by Nelu Burcea, director of Public Affairs and Religious Liberty (PARL) for the General Conference. He arrived in Lomé on November 13 with the specific goal of meeting Amah.

Burcea was accompanied by Abraham Bakari, PARL director for the West-Central Africa Division (WAD); Eastern Sahel Union Mission (ESUM) president Komlan Simon Djossou; ESUM treasurer Komla Claude Apedoh; and Kokoutse Enyonam Agbedigue, president of the Adventist Church in Togo. Other regional leaders completed the delegation.

Upon arrival, the delegation received a warm welcome from the prison administrator, who expressed appreciation for the Adventist Church’s continued spiritual and moral support to inmates. A special room was arranged for the encounter, which according to church leaders reflects the cooperative relationship between the church and the prison authorities.

When Amah entered the room, he did so with a radiant smile—an expression that set the tone for the meeting. Despite more than 13 years behind bars, he appeared strong, serene, and deeply rooted in Christ. For 30 minutes the delegation listened to a testimony marked by gratitude, faith, and astonishing resilience.

After Simon shared some opening thoughts, Burcea reassured him of the global church’s intercession and support. “The church has not forgotten you. Stay focused on your calling. Your mission continues—even here.”

Bruno responded with profound peace: “For more than 13 years the Lord has kept me healthy—without any medication. Millions pray for me every day. I see God’s hand clearly. My presence here has a purpose, and I live each day to fulfill it. I remain forever grateful to God for giving meaning to my life, even in this place.”

A Moment of Prayer and Mixed Emotions

Although the delegation intended to encourage Amah, church leaders said that it was Amah who ended up encouraging them instead. “His calm confidence in God’s providence left a profound impression on all present,” they reported.

Bakari and Burcea prayed for the nation of Togo, its leaders, its prisoners, and for the preservation of religious freedom. As Amah returned to his cell, the delegation waved goodbye with heavy hearts. “Walking back through the massive gates stirred deep emotion—the contrast between physical confinement and spiritual freedom was unmistakable,” they reported.

Reflections From Church Leaders

Several members of the visiting delegation shared their impressions after the meeting.

According to Simon Djossou, who has visited Amah before, “each time we visit Brother Amah, one testimony stands out: his unshakable trust in divine providence.” He added, “Even when he showed concern for his family’s future, his words remained filled with gratitude toward God. During this last visit his peaceful assurance once again edified us.”

Apedoh, on the other hand, highlighted Amah’s health and demeanor. “We found him in good health and strong in spirit. He draws strength from prayer and from the church’s support, and he remains deeply grateful to the worldwide Adventist community,” Apedoh shared.

Emmanuel Dzade, chaplaincy director for the Togo Conference, described an atmosphere of warmth and hope. “His testimony was moving,” Dzade shared. Amah “is convinced that God is in control and that his liberation is only a matter of time. He reminded us that thousands pray for him daily—more than for those of us outside. It was a wonderful moment of sharing.”

On the other hand, André Akakpovi, associate chaplaincy director for the Togo Conference, emphasized the positive impact of consistent pastoral care. “[Amah] assured us that our prayers and visits help him feel supported by a family of faith. He has never fallen ill since this ordeal began. His request is that we continue until God’s appointed time of deliverance.”

Enyonam Agbedigue reflected on the unexpected strength they found in Amah. “We expected a man weakened by years of imprisonment,” he acknowledged. “Instead, we found someone lively, hopeful, and steadfast. He has turned his time in prison into a ministry of evangelism. He reminded us of God’s faithfulness regardless of circumstances.”

On November 15 the delegation participated in a worship service and conducted training sessions for pastors and members. The focus remained on strengthening pastoral care, expanding understanding of religious liberty, and praying for the country.

The original version of this story was posted on the West-Central Africa Division news site.