Archbishop Ibezim
The Anglican Church has suspended the Archbishop of the Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Alexander Chibuzo Ibezim. He has been asked to proceed on a six-month leave amid allegations and administrative investigations in the diocese.
The suspension was approved by the Primate, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba. The directive is contained in a letter dated October 13, 2026, in which the Primate said the decision followed reports from various administrative panels set up to examine developments in the diocese, particularly a visitation team led by the Dean of the Church of Nigeria.
According to the letter, the Primate also referred to a meeting with Bishop Ibezim on October 9, 2026, during which the report of the visitation team was considered. The letter stated that the leave was intended to allow a fair and thorough investigation into the allegations, restore peace and promote reconciliation in the diocese.
The Primate explained 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 basis for the action.
The letter further 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 the period of Bishop Ibezim’s leave. Bishop Ezeofor is expected to assume episcopal responsibilities and oversight of the diocese and province throughout the period.
Bishop Ibezim was also directed to hand over immediately to Bishop Ezeofor and was instructed not to officiate at any activities of the Church of Nigeria, the Province of the Niger or Awka Diocese while on leave. The six-month period is subject to review, according to the letter signed by the Primate.
