The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) 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 leave as investigations into issues affecting the diocese continue.
The directive was issued by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, in a letter dated October 13, 2026.
The Primate also appointed the Bishop of Aguata Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ezeofor, to oversee the Diocese of Awka and the Province of the Niger during Ibezim’s absence.
According to the letter, the decision followed recent developments in the Diocese of Awka and the submission of a visitation panel’s report, which was reviewed by the church leadership.
Ndukuba said the action was taken under the Constitution and Canons of the Church of Nigeria to allow a proper investigation into the issues.
He stressed that the leave was “not… a disciplinary sanction but as an administrative arrangement designed to allow an impartial inquiry” and to promote peace and reconciliation in the diocese.
The leave will last for an initial period of six months, although it may be reviewed by the church leadership if necessary.
During the period, Ezeofor will supervise the affairs of both the Diocese of Awka and the Province of the Niger.
Ibezim was also directed not to officiate at any activity of the Church of Nigeria, the Province of the Niger or the Diocese of Awka until the leave expires.
He was further instructed to hand over all official responsibilities to Ezeofor before proceeding on leave.
Copies of the Primate’s letter were sent to senior church officials, including the Chancellor and Registrar of the Church of Nigeria, the Provincial Council and the Diocesan Board.
Although the church did not disclose the allegations against Ibezim, the decision comes amid reports linking him to the alleged sale of church land worth more than ₦2 billion without approval.
The reports also claimed that a petition was submitted to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the matter, while an Anambra State High Court reportedly restrained any planned arrest of the archbishop.
The church, however, did not confirm those allegations in its letter and did not disclose the findings of the ongoing investigation.
The development marks a major leadership change in the Anglican Church’s Province of the Niger as the Church says it is working to restore peace, confidence and stability in the Diocese of Awka while investigations continue.