Anglican Church suspends Archbishop Ibezim

The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has suspended the Bishop of Awka and Archbishop of the Niger Province, Most Rev. Alexander Ibezim, for six months pending an investigation into allegations and recent developments in the Diocese of Awka.

The suspension was communicated through a directive issued by the Primate of All Nigeria, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, who ordered Ibezim to proceed on immediate leave.

Under the directive, the Archbishop is barred from officiating in any church activities throughout the six-month period.

The decision comes amid developments within the Diocese of Awka, although the Church has yet to publicly disclose the specific allegations against the cleric or provide details of the circumstances that prompted the action.

Church orders immediate leave pending investigation

In the directive, Ndukuba instructed Ibezim to step aside while the issues concerning the diocese are investigated.

The official communication reportedly referred to allegations and recent developments in the Diocese of Awka but did not specify the nature of the alleged misconduct.

Sources, however, said the Archbishop was accused of taking certain actions without obtaining the necessary authorisation from the Church.

The allegations have not been fully detailed in the available communication, and it remains unclear whether Ibezim has formally responded to them.

The suspension is expected to allow the Church to investigate the issues raised and determine the appropriate next steps.

Bishop Ezeofor takes over supervisory responsibilities

Meanwhile, the Bishop of Aguata, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ezeofor, has been appointed as the Supervising Bishop of the Diocese of Awka and Coordinating Bishop of the Province of the Niger.

His appointment is expected to provide leadership and coordinate ecclesiastical responsibilities in the affected diocese and province during Ibezim’s absence.

The Church has not provided further details about the scope of Ezeofor’s responsibilities or the arrangements for the investigation.

Further developments are expected as the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, addresses the allegations and determines the next steps in the matter.