Awka Bishop Ibezim placed on six-month leave for investigations

The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has directed Most Rev. Alexander Ibezim, the Bishop of Awka Diocese, to take a six-month leave due to ongoing administrative investigations within the diocese. This directive was communicated in a letter dated October 13, signed by the Primate of the Church, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba.

The decision follows reports from administrative panels investigating developments in the diocese, particularly a visitation team led by the Dean of the Church of Nigeria. The Primate met with Ibezim on October 9 to discuss the visitation team's findings.

The leave is intended to facilitate a thorough investigation, restore peace, and promote reconciliation in the diocese. Ndukuba clarified that this action is an administrative measure rather than a disciplinary sanction, referencing Section 29(1) of Chapter V of the Constitution and Canons of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), 2020.

During Ibezim's leave, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ezeofor, the Bishop of Aguata Diocese, has been appointed as the Supervising Bishop of Awka Diocese and Coordinating Bishop of the Province of the Niger.