From Premium Times Nigeria · Chinagorom Ugwu · · 3m
Diocese threatens to quit Church of Nigeria over archbishop's suspension
Diocese of Awka threatens to withdraw from Church of Nigeria after archbishop suspended for six months.
In brief
Diocese of Awka threatens to withdraw from Church of Nigeria after archbishop suspended for six months. Diocese of Awka will leave Church of Nigeria if suspension of Archbishop Alexander Ibezim and appointment of Samuel Ezeofor as supervising bishop are not reversed. Originally reported by Premium Times Nigeria.
Diocese of Awka rejects suspension
The Board of the Diocese of Awka, Anglican Communion, has rejected the six-month suspension of its Bishop, Alexander Ibezim, by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Henry Ndukuba.
Suspension reasons
The Primate suspended the archbishop for six months over allegations including selling church land for N2 billion.
Primate's explanation
The Primate claimed the suspension would allow transparent investigations into allegations against the archbishop and diocese.
Primate appoints new bishop
The Primate also appointed the Bishop of Aguata, Samuel Ezeofor, as supervising bishop of Awka Diocese and coordinating bishop of the Province of the Niger.
Diocese challenges suspension
The diocese filed legal challenges against the suspension, including a lawsuit challenging his suspension and plan to discipline him over allegations of selling church land for N2 billion.
Diocese threatens withdrawal
The Board threatened to withdraw from the Church of Nigeria and rejoin the Church of England if the suspension and appointment were not discontinued.
Board's legal arguments
The Board argued that the Primate's actions violated court procedures and constitutional rights, including the presumption of innocence and freedom of religion.
Three pending lawsuits
The Board referenced three separate lawsuits in different courts concerning allegations against the archbishop, including one with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Constitutional challenges
The Board claimed the Primate's actions violated Section 36(5) of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution and Section 38(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, guaranteeing the presumption of innocence and freedom of religion.
Investigation panels
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The Board alleged that the Primate initially set up two panels to investigate the allegations but later withheld their reports.
No financial wrongdoing
The Board affirmed that no money from Awka Diocese was stolen, misused, or misappropriated by Archbishop Ibezim.
Infrastructure development
The Board highlighted that the archbishop made significant infrastructural development in the diocese and urged him to continue his work.
Warning to Ezeofor
The Board warned Bishop Ezeofor against interfering in Awka Diocese affairs and urged him to focus on his responsibilities as Bishop of Aguata Diocese.
Legal consequences
The Board vowed to invoke the law and involve law enforcement agencies if the Primate and Ezeofor continued to interfere in diocese affairs.
Diocese loyalty
The Board directed all diocese organs to remain loyal to Archbishop Ibezim and continue lawful activities.
The essence
Diocese of Awka will leave Church of Nigeria if suspension of Archbishop Alexander Ibezim and appointment of Samuel Ezeofor as supervising bishop are not reversed.
