The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has directed the Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Alexander Ibezim, to proceed on a six-month leave amid ongoing administrative investigations in the diocese.
‎The directive is contained in a letter dated October 13, signed by the Primate of the Church, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, on Friday.
‎The letter said the decision followed reports from administrative panels set up to investigate developments in the diocese, particularly a visitation team led by the Dean of the Church of Nigeria.
‎‎It added that the Primate met with Ibezim on October 9 to consider the visitation team’s report.
‎According to the letter, the leave is intended to facilitate a thorough investigation, restore peace and promote reconciliation in the diocese.
‎Mr Ndukuba said the directive was an administrative measure, not a disciplinary sanction, citing Section 29(1) of Chapter V of the Constitution and Canons of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), 2020.
‎‎The Primate appointed the Bishop of Aguata Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ezeofor, as supervising bishop of Awka Diocese and Coordinating Bishop of the Province of the Niger during the period.
‎Mr Ezeofor is to assume oversight of the diocese and province, while Mr Ibezim is required to hand over immediately.
‎‎The letter also directed Mr Ibezim not to officiate at any activities of the Church of Nigeria, the Province of the Niger or Awka Diocese while on leave.
‎‎It said the six-month leave would be subject to review.
‎(NAN)
‎
‎