The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the Most Rev’d Henry Chukwudum Ndukuba, has directed the Archbishop of the Province of the Niger and Bishop of the Diocese of Awka, the Most Rev’d Alexander C. Ibezim, to proceed on a six-month leave amid allegations and investigations into developments in the diocese.
The directive, contained in a letter dated Tuesday, October 13, 2026, said the leave was intended to facilitate an impartial investigation into the allegations against Ibezim and restore peace and reconciliation in the Diocese of Awka.
The letter, signed by Ndukuba in his capacity as Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria, said the decision followed reports submitted by administrative panels established to investigate developments in the diocese.
It specifically cited a recent visitation team led by the Dean of the Church of Nigeria, whose report had been submitted and considered by the church leadership.
The Primate also referred to a meeting with Ibezim on Friday, October 9, 2026, during which the visitation team’s report was discussed.
According to the letter, the decision was taken pursuant to Section 29(1) of Chapter V of the Constitution and Canons of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), 2020, which empowers the Primate with general authority and supervisory responsibility over the church.
The letter stated that the administrative measure was necessary to allow a fair and thorough investigation into the allegations and address concerns arising from events in the diocese.
It stressed, however, that the directive was not a disciplinary sanction but an administrative measure designed to facilitate an impartial inquiry and promote peace and reconciliation.
Ndukuba directed Ibezim to proceed on leave with immediate effect from the date of the letter for an initial period of six months, subject to possible review.
As part of the arrangements, the Primate appointed the Bishop of the Diocese of Aguata, the Rt. Rev’d Samuel Ezeofor, as Supervising Bishop of the Diocese of Awka and Coordinating Bishop of the Province of the Niger during Ibezim’s absence.
Ezeofor is to assume and exercise all episcopal responsibilities and provide oversight for both the Diocese of Awka and the Province of the Niger throughout the period.
The letter further directed Ibezim not to officiate at any activities of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the Province of the Niger or the Diocese of Awka while on leave. He was also instructed to prepare for and effect an immediate handover to Ezeofor at his office.
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 the Diocese of Awka.
Credit: The Sun