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 Ibezim, to proceed on a six-month administrative leave amid allegations surrounding the management and sale of church properties.
The directive, dated October 13, 2026, is intended to allow a fair and thorough investigation into the issues raised and promote peace and reconciliation within the diocese.
In the letter, Ndukuba cited findings from various administrative panels established to examine developments in Awka Diocese, including a recent visitation team led by the Dean of the Church of Nigeria.
The Primate also referred to a meeting with Ibezim on October 9, during which the visitation team's report was discussed.
Ndukuba said the decision was made 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.
He stressed that the leave was an administrative measure and did not constitute a disciplinary sanction.
As part of the arrangement, the Bishop of Aguata Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ezeofor, has been appointed Supervising Bishop of Awka Diocese and Coordinating Bishop of the Province of the Niger for the duration of Ibezim's absence.
Ezeofor is expected to assume episcopal responsibilities and oversee the affairs of the diocese and province throughout the period.
The directive requires Ibezim to hand over his responsibilities to Ezeofor immediately. It also bars him from officiating at activities of the Church of Nigeria, the Province of the Niger and Awka Diocese while the leave remains in force.
The six-month period, according to the letter, may be reviewed.
The development follows allegations concerning the unauthorised sale of church properties reportedly valued at more than ₦2 billion. The transactions have reportedly prompted a petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The controversy has also raised questions about the procedures followed in handling the transactions, with petitioners alleging that due process was bypassed. Ibezim has previously dismissed the allegations as politically motivated.
The allegations have not, by themselves, established wrongdoing, and the Primate's letter describes the leave as an administrative measure pending further action.
The letter was signed by Ndukuba in his capacity as Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria.
