The Anglican Diocese of Awka has been thrown into turmoil following a wave of explosive allegations against Archbishop Alexander Chibuzo Ibezim. A group of nine concerned insiders, identifying themselves as the “Nine Crusaders,” has petitioned the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, accusing the Archbishop of corruption, asset plundering, forgery, and authoritarian leadership.
The petition, which has caused heated discussions across Anambra State and beyond, alleges that Archbishop Ibezim has engaged in the unlawful sale of church property without the knowledge or approval of the Diocesan Board or Synod. Among the properties allegedly sold are vast lands located at Ngozika Estate and Ifite Awka. These sales, according to the petitioners, directly violate the constitution of the Church of Nigeria, which vests authority over church assets in a body of registered trustees.
One of the most striking accusations is that the Archbishop forged the signature of retired Federal High Court Judge, Hon. Justice Okechukwu J. Okeke, who is a registered trustee of the church. The Crusaders allege that this forged signature was used to legitimize the sale of over 80 plots of land, raising questions not only of financial misconduct but also of potential criminal liability.
In their petition, the Nine Crusaders claimed: “The unlawful actions of Archbishop Ibezim threaten the very foundation of the church’s assets. A forgery involving the signature of a respected trustee like Justice Okeke is a grave crime that undermines trust and endangers the integrity of the diocese.”
The accusations extend beyond financial impropriety. The group alleges that the Archbishop diverted the proceeds from these questionable sales for personal enrichment. Among the properties reportedly linked to him are a private school described as meeting “Abuja standard” facilities, two commercial plazas in Abuja, and even an apartment in the United States.
The Nine Crusaders further lamented the neglect of mission schools within the diocese, claiming they remain in a “comatose state” while the Archbishop allegedly builds what they describe as a “stunningly palatial and ostentatious” country home, ranking among the most extravagant in Anambra State.
The petition also sheds light on allegations of emotional and spiritual abuse within the diocese. Priests, it claims, are regularly humiliated and compelled to kneel before the Archbishop, regardless of circumstance. The Archbishop’s wife is also accused of directing priests’ wives to collect cash from parishioners to avoid leaving any financial records.
“This despotic leadership has driven priests and parishes to desperation,” the petition read. “Many communities are considering breaking away to form their own dioceses as an escape from the Archbishop’s grip.”
The Nine Crusaders issued an ultimatum to the Church’s Primate, demanding immediate intervention and a full-scale investigation. They warned that failure to act could result in broader public outcry and petitions being taken to national security agencies.
The crisis has now spilled into public discourse, with many faithful urging transparency and swift action. For many observers, the controversy represents more than an internal church matter; it is a test of accountability and moral leadership within one of Nigeria’s most respected religious institutions.
As the petition continues to generate debate, the future of the Anglican Diocese of Awka hangs in the balance, with clergy and laity waiting to see whether justice and reform will prevail.
