The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, has directed the Archbishop of the Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Alexander Chibuzo Ibezim, to proceed on a six-month leave amid allegations and ongoing administrative investigations in the diocese.
The directive, contained in a letter dated October 13, 2026, also requires Bishop Ibezim to hand over immediately to the Bishop of Aguata Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ezeofor, who has been appointed Supervising Bishop of Awka Diocese and Coordinating Bishop of the Province of the Niger during the period.
According to the letter signed by the Primate, Bishop Ibezim is prohibited from officiating at any activities of the Church of Nigeria, the Province of the Niger or Awka Diocese while on leave.
The Primate stated that the six-month period would be subject to review, adding that the decision followed reports from various administrative panels constituted to examine developments in the diocese, particularly a visitation team led by the Dean of the Church of Nigeria.
The letter also referenced a meeting between the Primate and Bishop Ibezim on October 9, 2026, during which the visitation team’s report was considered.
It explained that the leave was intended to facilitate a fair and thorough investigation into the allegations, restore peace and promote reconciliation within the diocese.
The Primate emphasised that the directive was an administrative measure and did not constitute a disciplinary sanction.
He cited Section 29(1) of Chapter V of the Constitution and Canons of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), 2020, as the legal basis for the decision.
Under the arrangement, Bishop Ezeofor is expected to assume episcopal responsibilities and provide oversight for Awka Diocese and the Province of the Niger throughout Bishop Ibezim’s leave.
Angel Network News (ANN) gathered that the directive comes as the Church seeks to address the issues raised in the administrative reports and ensure stability, peace and reconciliation within the diocese.
