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Visit to the Prison of Lomé Brings Renewed Hope to Brother Bruno Amah After 13 Years of Incarceration

Posted on Nov. 24 2025

Visit to the Prison of Lomé Brings Renewed Hope to Brother Bruno Amah After 13 Years of Incarceration
Lomé, Togo — November 2025
By Abraham Bakari, WAD PARL Director.

[Photo: After visit inside the prison]
A delegation from the Seventh-day Adventist Church conducted a pastoral visit to Brother Bruno Amah, who has remained incarcerated with a life sentence at the Civil Prison of Lomé since 2012. The visit took place on Friday, November 14, 2025 at 12:00 PM, and brought renewed solidarity, spiritual encouragement, and strengthened advocacy on behalf of a man whose unwavering faith is inspiring.

Historical Background
As a reminder, on 15th March 2012, Pastor Antonio Monteiro and Brother Bruno Amah were arrested in Lomé, Togo, after a troubled former inmate—later assessed as psychologically unstable—falsely 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, Pastor Monteiro was fully exonerated on January 13, 2014, while Brother 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, 2025 with the specific purpose of meeting Brother Amah. He was accompanied by Abraham Bakari, PARL Director for the West-Central Africa Division (WAD); Djossou Simon, President of the Eastern Sahel Union Mission; Apedoh Claude, Treasurer of the Eastern Sahel Union Mission; Agbedigue Enyonam, President of the Adventist Church in Togo; Dzade Koku Emmanuel, Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries Director of the Togo Conference and his associate Akakpovi André.
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, reflecting the cooperative relationship between the Church and the prison authorities.
When brother Bruno 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 thirty minutes, the delegation listened to a testimony marked by gratitude, faith, and astonishing resilience.
After the introduction by Pastor Djossou Simon, Pastor Nelu 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 thirteen 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 Bruno, he ended up encouraging them instead. His calm confidence in God’s providence left a profound impression on all present.
Bakari and Burcea prayed for the nation of Togo, its leaders, its prisoners, and for the preservation of religious freedom. As Bruno 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.

Reflections From Church Leaders
Several members of the delegation shared powerful impressions after the meeting, reinforcing the spiritual impact of this encounter.
Djossou Simon, President of the Eastern Sahel Union Mission, noted:
“Each time we visit Brother Amah, one testimony stands out: his unshakable trust in divine providence. Even when concerned for his family’s future, his words remain filled with gratitude toward God. During this last visit, his peaceful assurance once again edified us.”
Claude Apedoh, Treasurer of the Eastern Sahel Union Mission, added:
“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.”
Dzade Koku Emmanuel, Chaplaincy Director for the Togo Conference, described an atmosphere of warmth and hope:“His testimony was moving. He 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.”
Akakpovi André, Associate Chaplaincy Director for the Togo Conference, emphasized the positive impact of consistent pastoral care: “He 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.”
Agbedigue Enyonam, President of the Togo Conference, reflected on the unexpected strength they found in him:“We expected a man weakened by years of imprisonment. 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 Sabbath, November 15, the delegation participated in 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.

Visit to the Family of Brother Amah

Sharing the Word with Bruno's family

Visit ending at Bruno's sister

On Sunday, November 16, the leaders visited the family of Brother Bruno Amah. They met his wife Elise, their children Jordan, Josias, and Joseph, and Elise’s mother, who has supported the family since the early days of the crisis. Pastor Burcea offered words of encouragement and assured them of the Church’s unwavering commitment.
The delegation then visited Bruno’s senior sister, whose steadfast support has been invaluable to the family during these long years.
The visit to Brother Amah stands as a powerful reminder that hope thrives even behind prison walls. His gratitude, vibrant faith, and ministry inside the prison continue to inspire thousands worldwide. As Bruno requested, his heartfelt thanks are extended to the global Adventist family:“Your prayers are my strength”.
Dr Nelu Burcea departed on November 17, while Bakari remained until November 19 to conclude a training program on media and communication, which began on November 8. These activities reinforced the Church’s communication and mission initiatives in Togo preparing members for the ONEVOICE27 global initiative.
In the shadow of confinement, a testimony continues to shine— unbroken and undeniably grounded in the Bible and focused on the mission.