Recent reports alleging that operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) stormed Awka to arrest Archbishop Alexander Chibuzor Ibezim are nothing but malicious fabrications.
The story is false, baseless, and wickedly designed to smear the reputation of one of Nigeria’s most respected clerics.
On Sunday, September 7, 2025 when detractors claimed he was “in hiding” Archbishop Ibezim was, in fact, very visible and active, leading the First Sunday Thanksgiving Service at the Cathedral Church of St. Faith, Awka.
That service was a day of grace and celebration. The Archbishop presided over worship, empowered the Children’s Department, awarded a scholarship to a deserving teacher, supported the ACM ministry with gifts and financial aid, and joyfully danced with children and parishioners. There was no hiding, no scandal, and certainly no EFCC drama only worship, empowerment, and thanksgiving.
Those spreading falsehoods must be called out for what they are: enemies of truth who feed on lies to create confusion and tarnish reputations.
A Malicious Campaign Against a Man of Integrity
The services of the anti graft organization EFCC is for a better society. If there is a case with the agency. They shall do their duties unhindered. But to allege that because of the allegations of mismanagement of land proceeds and forgery, a reputed man of God shall be hounded.
The EFCC storyline were fabrications pushed by mischief makers intent on discrediting a man known for his integrity and service. In today’s age of fake news, such smear campaigns can easily mislead the public but they cannot stand against the truth.
The motive behind this propaganda is clear: to sow division among the faithful, shake public confidence, and stain the image of Archbishop Ibezim. But their efforts will fail. Truth, as always, stands taller than lies.
Archbishop Ibezim’s record speaks for itself. He has built his ministry on transparency, discipline, and accountability. His leadership is marked by passion for service to both the church and society and by a life that consistently reflects advocacy, compassion, and integrity. In any case of below expectations in anyone’s view, that’s why he is human, not god.
A Prophetic Voice in Troubled Times
Archbishop Ibezim has never hesitated to speak truth to power. In May 2024, amid worsening hunger, insecurity, and poverty in Nigeria, he called for a state of emergency on hunger and insecurity. He also boldly appealed for fairness, justice, and the release of detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, an issue many would rather avoid.
His courage is not political; it is moral. His message is one of a national conscience, reminding leaders of their duty to justice and compassion, and urging citizens to hold on to their moral compass. This is the kind of prophetic leadership Nigeria needs: one that warns, corrects, builds, and heals.
Humanitarian Service: Compassion in Action
Archbishop Ibezim’s ministry is not limited to words, it is defined by action. His humanitarian initiatives speak volumes:
Feeding the hungry: regular food distributions to vulnerable families.
Supporting the aged: welfare and stipends for retired clergy who once gave their all.
Educating the needy: scholarships for orphans and disadvantaged children.
Empowering ministries: financial and material support for various church departments.
For Archbishop Ibezim, charity is not a show; it is service. His philosophy is simple: “When the prophets speak, they must also build, feed, and heal.”
He consistently turns church anniversaries and celebrations into opportunities to uplift others. His philanthropy is both immediate and sustainable meeting today’s needs while investing in people and institutions for the future.
The Truth About September 7, 2025
Contrary to the viral falsehood, there was no EFCC raid, no arrest, and no hiding. On that day, Archbishop Ibezim was visibly present at the Cathedral, ministering with joy. He preached, prayed, danced, and blessed his congregation.
It is therefore absurd to imagine that EFCC officials were arresting a man who was publicly dancing with children and awarding scholarships before a full congregation. The contradiction exposes the ridiculousness of the fake story.
A Call to Uphold Truth
Those behind these unfounded allegations should desist. Dragging the name of a respected servant of God into baseless controversies is both immoral and destructive. Lies may travel fast, but they never last.
The public must learn to question sensational headlines, verify claims, and reject deliberate misinformation. Archbishop Ibezim deserves commendation, not condemnation. His voice has been one of courage and truth in difficult times, and his ministry continues to serve humanity with grace and compassion.
The Last Word
The attack on Archbishop Ibezim is not merely an attack on one man, it is an attack on truth, the church, and the values of integrity and service that he embodies.
On September 7, 2025, there was no EFCC, no hiding, and no arrest, only worship, empowerment, and joy in the house of God. Fake news cannot erase that.
Archbishop Alexander Chibuzor Ibezim remains a beacon of advocacy and humanitarian service. His prophetic voice continues to call for justice and national healing, while his compassionate actions continue to uplift lives.
In the end, truth always outlives falsehood. And in this case, truth has already spoken, loudly, through the Archbishop’s life, ministry, and enduring witnesses. Shalom!
Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu PhD is a Public Affairs Analyst and Social Commentator.
