Church of Nigeria Primate Orders Awka Archbishop on Six-Month Leave

The Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Henry C. Ndukuba, has ordered the Archbishop of the Diocese of Awka, Most Rev. Alexander C. Ibezim, to proceed on six months' leave with immediate effect. The directive follows investigations into allegations of misconduct and questionable developments within the diocese.

A letter dated October 13, 2026, appointed the Bishop of Aguata Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ezeofor, as the Supervising Bishop of Awka Diocese and Coordinating Bishop of the Province of the Niger during Ibezim's absence. Ndukuba stated the measure is administrative, not a disciplinary punishment, and is intended to allow a fair investigation.

The Diocese of Awka rejected the directive in a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting of the Diocesan Board on October 16, 2026. The board cited pending court cases involving Ibezim and others before the High Court of Anambra State.

The diocese warned it could withdraw from the Church of Nigeria and continue with the Church of England if interference in its affairs persists. The communiqué was signed by the Lord Chancellor, Synod Secretary, and Lay Synod Secretary of the diocese.