Anglican Church slams 6-month suspension on Archbishop Ibezim

The Anglican Bishop of Awka Diocese and Archbishop of the Province of the Niger, Most Rev. Alexander Ibezim, has been directed to proceed on leave and barred from performing church duties pending an investigation into allegations and recent developments in the diocese.

The directive was announced by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, in a letter addressed to Ibezim.

Ndukuba directed Ibezim to proceed on six months’ leave with immediate effect, pending the investigation.

The cleric was also barred from officiating at any activities of the Church of Nigeria, the Province of the Niger or the Anglican Diocese of Awka during the period.

The Primate announced the appointment of the Bishop of Aguata Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ezeofor, as Supervising Bishop of Awka Diocese and Coordinating Bishop of the Province of the Niger during Ibezim’s absence.

The letter said the decision followed recent developments in Awka Diocese, where allegations and events involving the Archbishop had raised concerns about the integrity and image of the Church of Nigeria.

The Primate also referenced a meeting with Ibezim on October 9, during which the report of a visitation team was discussed as part of the issues considered in reaching the decision.

According to the letter, the action was taken under Section 29(1) of Chapter V of the Constitution and Canons of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), 2020, which gives the Primate general authority and oversight of the Church.

Ndukuba explained that the measure was intended to allow for a fair and thorough investigation into the allegations and create room for peace and reconciliation in Awka Diocese.

He clarified that the leave was not a disciplinary measure but an administrative step to ensure an impartial inquiry into developments in the diocese.

The letter directed Ibezim to proceed on leave for an initial period of six months or for any other period the Church leadership may deem necessary.

During that period, Ezeofor will take charge of episcopal duties and oversee both Awka Diocese and the Province of the Niger.

The Primate further directed Ibezim to prepare for the handover of his responsibilities to Ezeofor at his office before proceeding on leave.

Copies of the letter were sent to Ezeofor, the Chancellor and Registrar of the Church of Nigeria, the Provincial Council of the Province of the Niger and the Diocesan Board of Awka Diocese.