A growing crisis is engulfing the Anglican Diocese of Awka as explosive accusations from a group of nine insiders threaten to expose a vast network of corruption and abuse.
The group, calling themselves the “Nine Crusaders,” has formally petitioned the Church of Nigeria’s Primate, alleging that Archbishop Alexander Chibuzo Ibezim is not only plundering church assets but also operating with a level of impunity that has prompted widespread discontent among clergy and laity.
The core of the matter centers on the alleged unlawful sale of church property. The “Crusaders” claim that Archbishop Ibezim has secretly sold off valuable church lands, including properties at Ngozika Estate and Ifite Awka, without the consent of the Diocesan Board or Synod. This is in direct violation of the Church’s constitution, which vests the control of all assets in a body of registered trustees.
One of the most damning allegations is the claim that the Archbishop forged the signature of a respected retired Federal High Court Judge, Hon. Justice Okechukwu J. Okeke, a registered trustee of the church. This alleged forgery was reportedly used to legitimize the sale of more than 80 plots of land. This is not merely a financial impropriety but a potentially criminal act that threatens the legal foundation of the church’s property holdings and puts a revered official in a compromising position.
The petition further alleges that the Archbishop has used the proceeds from these sales to enrich himself personally. His alleged investments include a private school with “Abuja standard” facilities, two plazas in Abuja, and an apartment in the United States. These acquisitions are in stark contrast to the state of mission schools in the diocese, which the “Crusaders” say are in a “comatose state” after funds were allegedly diverted. The group also points to the Archbishop’s “stunningly palatial and ostentatious” country home, rating it among the top five most extravagant in Anambra State.
Beyond the financial misconduct, the petition details a reign of terror and emotional abuse. Priests are allegedly humiliated and threatened, forced to kneel to greet him regardless of location or circumstance. It is also alleged that the Archbishop’s wife instructs wives of priests to collect cash from parishioners to avoid any financial paper trail. The petition claims that this “despotic leadership” has led to an unprecedented number of petitions and a desire among communities to break away and form their own dioceses as a means of escape.
The “Nine Crusaders” have issued a clear ultimatum to the Primate: act now and launch a full investigation, or face public outcry and petitions to national security agencies.
The group sees the lack of prior action as a sign of “strategic and under-current protection” of the Archbishop. With these serious accusations now in the public sphere, the crisis in the Awka Diocese is no longer an internal church matter but a case that demands immediate and transparent resolution.
The future of the diocese, and the faith of its members, hangs in the balance.
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