Anglican Archbishop Alexander Ibezim placed on six-month leave

A leadership crisis has emerged within the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) following a directive by Primate Henry C. Ndukuba to place Archbishop Alexander Chibuzo Ibezim on a six-month compulsory leave. The directive, issued in mid-October 2026, bars Ibezim from officiating at church activities in the Province of the Niger and the Awka Diocese while investigations are conducted. Rt. Rev. Samuel C. Ezeofor has been appointed to supervise the Awka Diocese during this period.

The leave follows allegations involving the diocese, including reports of an unauthorized ₦2 billion sale of church land. The Primate characterized the move as an administrative measure intended to facilitate a thorough investigation and promote reconciliation, rather than a disciplinary sanction.

In response, the Awka Diocesan Board has rejected the Primate’s authority to compel the leave, describing the decision as unlawful and contrary to church governing provisions. The board has threatened to sever ties with the Church of Nigeria if the interference continues. Additionally, Archbishop Ibezim has filed a lawsuit in the Anambra State High Court challenging the legality of the visitation team and seeking judicial interpretation of the church’s constitution regarding disciplinary procedures for serving bishops.