The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has directed the Archbishop of the Province of the Niger and Bishop of the Diocese of Awka, Most Reverend Alexander Ibezim, to proceed on a six-month compulsory leave with immediate effect amid investigations into allegations and recent developments within the diocese.
Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba, announced the decision in a letter dated Tuesday, October 13, and a copy sighted on Friday, October 16.
The Primate also appointed Bishop of the Diocese of Aguata, Right Reverend Samuel Ezeofor, as Supervising Bishop of the Diocese of Awka and Coordinating Archbishop of the Province of the Niger during Ibezim’s absence.
In the letter addressed to Ibezim, Ndukuba said the decision followed developments in the Diocese of Awka that had raised concerns about the integrity and reputation of the Church of Nigeria.
He referred to administrative investigations into the matter, particularly the report of a visitation team led by the Dean of the Church of Nigeria, which had been submitted and considered by the church leadership.
The Primate also cited a meeting with Ibezim on Friday, October 9, during which the visitation team’s report was discussed.
According to the letter, the directive was issued pursuant to Section 29(1) of Chapter V of the Constitution and Canons of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), 2020, which provides for the Primate’s general authority and supervisory powers over the church.
Ndukuba explained that the administrative measure was intended to facilitate a fair and thorough investigation, while creating an opportunity to restore peace and promote reconciliation within the Diocese of Awka.
He stressed that the leave should not be interpreted as a disciplinary sanction but as an administrative arrangement designed to allow an impartial inquiry into the issues affecting the diocese.
The letter stated that the leave would last for an initial period of six months, subject to any revision the church leadership might consider necessary.
Ibezim was also directed not to officiate at any activities of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the Province of the Niger or the Diocese of Awka throughout the period of his compulsory leave.
The Primate further directed the archbishop to make immediate arrangements to hand over his responsibilities to Ezeofor at his office before departing.
