Archbishop Ibezim Sues Anglican Primate Over Suspension

The Archbishop of the Province of the Niger and Bishop of the Diocese of Awka, Most Rev. Alexander Chibuzo Ibezim, has approached the Anambra State High Court to challenge the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion)’s decision to place him on six months’ compulsory leave.

The suit, filed against the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Henry C. Ndukuba, and the church’s Dean, Most Rev. Blessing Enyindah, seeks clarification of the constitutional procedures governing disciplinary action against serving bishops. The case is registered as A/371/2026 at the Awka Judicial Division.

In the originating summons filed on October 13, Ibezim asked the court to determine whether the church’s 2020 Constitution and Canons were followed in the process leading to the decision against him. He cited Sections 55, 75 and 76 of the constitution, alongside provisions of Canon XVI, which outline disciplinary procedures for senior clergy.

The archbishop also challenged the constitution of a visitation team led by Enyindah, describing it as improperly established by the Primate in a letter dated June 17, 2026. He is seeking a declaration that the church’s prescribed procedures must be followed before disciplinary sanctions, including suspension or removal from office, can be imposed.

According to reports, Ndukuba directed Ibezim to proceed on compulsory leave in a letter dated October 13, 2026, pending investigations into allegations and developments within the Diocese of Awka.

The directive also barred Ibezim from officiating at church activities during the period and appointed the Bishop of Aguata, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ezeofor, to oversee the Diocese of Awka and coordinate the Province of the Niger in his absence.

The Primate reportedly described the compulsory leave as an administrative measure intended to facilitate an impartial investigation and restore peace within the diocese, rather than a disciplinary sanction.