The leadership crisis within the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has taken a dramatic turn following reports that the Most Revd Dr. Alexander Chibuzo Ibezim, Archbishop of the Province of the Niger and Bishop of the Diocese of Awka, has approached the court to challenge the directive requiring him to proceed on six months’ leave of absence.
The reported legal action is directed against the Most Revd Dr. Henry Chukwudum Ndukuba, Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria, alongside the Most Revd Dr. Blessing Enyindah, Dean of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).
The development marks a significant escalation in the dispute over the administration of the Diocese of Awka, raising questions about ecclesiastical authority, internal disciplinary procedures and the constitutional rights of senior church officials.
The controversy intensified on October 13, 2026, when Primate Ndukuba reportedly directed Archbishop Ibezim to proceed on six months’ leave with immediate effect, pending the consideration of issues arising from an investigative visitation to the Diocese of Awka.
Reports indicate that the directive followed a visitation exercise led by the Dean of the Church of Nigeria and a meeting at which the findings of the visitation team were discussed.
Under the reported arrangement, Archbishop Ibezim was instructed to refrain from officiating at church activities within the Church of Nigeria, the Province of the Niger and the Diocese of Awka during the period of his leave.
The Bishop of Aguata, the Rt. Revd Dr. Samuel Ezeofor, was reportedly appointed to supervise the Diocese of Awka and coordinate the Province of the Niger during Ibezim’s absence.
The decision has generated considerable attention within Anglican circles, particularly because of the senior ecclesiastical positions occupied by the principal figures.
According to reports, Archbishop Ibezim has challenged the decision in the Anambra State High Court, Awka Judicial Division, in a suit reportedly numbered A/371/2026.
Reports further indicate that Ibezim is seeking judicial protection against actions that could affect his tenure or ecclesiastical responsibilities without compliance with the applicable procedures.
However, the complete originating court documents and the precise terms of any orders issued by the court have not been independently established for this report. It is therefore unclear whether the court has granted any interim relief.
The leadership dispute has also attracted attention amid allegations concerning the management and disposal of church properties in the Diocese of Awka. Some reports have linked the controversy to questions surrounding the alleged sale of church lands without the necessary authorisation.
The outcome of the reported legal proceedings, together with the findings of the church’s investigation, may help clarify the issues at the centre of the dispute.