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 investigations into administrative and other developments within the diocese.

The directive was contained in a letter dated October 13 and signed by the Primate of the Church, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba.

The letter said the decision followed reports from administrative panels established to investigate developments in the diocese, particularly a visitation team led by the Dean of the Church of Nigeria.

Ndukuba also referred to a meeting with Ibezim on October 9, during which the visitation team’s report was considered.

According to the Primate, the leave is intended to facilitate a thorough and impartial investigation, restore peace and promote reconciliation within the diocese.

He clarified that the directive was an administrative measure rather than a disciplinary sanction, citing Section 29(1) of Chapter V of the Constitution and Canons of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), 2020.

As part of the arrangements, Ndukuba 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 throughout Ibezim’s absence.

Ezeofor is expected to assume oversight of both the diocese and the province, including the exercise of episcopal responsibilities during the six-month period.

The letter directed Ibezim to hand over his responsibilities immediately and barred him from officiating at activities of the Church of Nigeria, the Province of the Niger or Awka Diocese while on leave.

The leave period may be reviewed by the church leadership if necessary.

The Primate’s letter was also copied to senior church officials, including the Chancellor and Registrar of the Church of Nigeria, the Provincial Council of the Province of the Niger and the Diocesan Board of Awka Diocese.

The church did not disclose details of the allegations or findings that prompted the investigation, stating that the administrative arrangement was intended to support a fair inquiry and help restore stability within the diocese.