By Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, PhD
Anglican Church is structured in such a way no Bishop or Archbishop does anything without a Board and Synod. If Diocesan Board approves anything and Synod ratifies it, it’s no longer the Archbishop or the Bishop. Anglican Church has one of the best structure in Church Administration. The apex of the Church is govern by the General Synod and its Standing Committee, Diocesan Synod and its Diocesan Board govern the Diocese, Provincial Council govern the Provincial affairs, Archdeaconry Board govern the Archdeaconry affairs, and the PCC govern the affairs at Parish Church. This is an established structure and beauty of Anglican Church.
So, why the noise about Archbishop Alexander Chibuzo Ibezim PhD JP? Has a Bishop or Archbishop sole approval in any Diocesan issues? The answer is no! What happened? Where are the legal team, House of the Clergy as well as laity for Archbishop Ibezim to become the scape goat in a diocesan approvals?
Of what benefit is the targeted efforts of some people in maligning others. It’s just attention seeking, busy-body and desperation clothed in pettiness, hate speech, falsehood, bloated ego, cynicism, misinformation and lies in the guise of pulling him down syndrome mentality. Why attempt to destroy, he whose God has not destined for destruction? Why trigger hatred against another because of the height he or she reached , you couldn’t or even dream to near? Why not be happy for him for God’s grace to locate you also.
A recent online publication attempted to malign the good name of Archbishop Alexander Chibuzo Ibezim, Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese. With a sensational but false headline, it alleged mismanagement of land proceeds and even fabricated a tale of EFCC intervention. These claims are not only shameful but criminal, designed to tarnish the reputation of a man of God whose life is anchored on integrity, faith, and service.
The Diocesan Board of Diocese of Awka has already moved swiftly to debunk these allegations, describing them as false, baseless, and defamatory. The Diocese stressed that land sales and acquisitions under its care are conducted transparently, in accordance with resolutions passed by the Synod and managed with utmost accountability. Archbishop Ibezim has nothing to hide. He has consistently demonstrated prudent management of church resources, and the lies being circulated are calculated attempts at character assassination.
A Pattern of Malice
It is worth noting that the malicious campaign was originated and has been amplified by Barr. Chris Adimorah, a former Registrar of the Diocese, whose accusations have been independently investigated and found to be false. For instance, he alleged that Venerable Dr. Ifeanyi Umeh illegally acquired two (2) plots of Diocesan plots at Ngozika Estate, but journalists who visited the site discovered that the land in question belongs to a private pharmacist with no link to the church.
Picture of the Alleged Building
This revelation alone shows how damaging falsehoods can be when wielded carelessly, especially by individuals who should know better.
Character assassination of church leaders by supposed church officers is not just irresponsible; it is blasphemous. The Church warns that such dangerous tactics of spreading lies against clergy must be resisted by all people of faith. To smear a bishop is to smear the very image of the Church.
A Tested Leader of Vision and Impact
Archbishop Ibezim’s track record tells a completely different story from the malicious allegations being circulated. Far from enriching himself, he has devoted resources, time, and energy to strengthening the Diocese and advancing God’s kingdom through deliberate evangelism and soul Winning Programs, investments in land, infrastructure, and community development.
He has invested significantly in acquiring and securing lands critical for the future of the Church. Among them are plots around the Cathedral Church of St. Faith in Awka, lands around the Church of Pentecost in Awka, Nwakpadolo Estate, and Ngozika Estate. He spearheaded the recovery and fencing of the land of the old St. Mark’s TTC Nibo-Nise, now home to the College of Education Campus and St. Paul’s University Secondary School, following the resolution of a longstanding land dispute. He also purchased the land of the old Bishopscourt and transformed it into the flourishing Anglican Village with a chapel and an outstanding female Convent known now as Archbishop’s Palace. These initiatives ensure that the Diocese not only secures its heritage but also creates spaces for growth and ministry for generations to come.
Building for God’s Kingdom
Archbishop Ibezim’s episcopacy has been marked by a visible commitment to infrastructure and church building. His philosophy is simple: bricks and mortar must serve a higher purpose, to worship, to gather, to heal, and to empower. This conviction has guided the wave of projects he has championed across the Diocese.
In April 2025, he dedicated a new church building at St. Peter’s Church, Umuji-Ebenebe, and commissioned a borehole to support the local congregation. That event was not just about spiritual dedication; it was also about community upliftment, showing his deep concern for both the spiritual and physical welfare of his flock. Similar initiatives, ranging from Church buildings, chapels to parish halls, have left a tangible mark on communities, reinforcing the idea that the Church must remain a sanctuary of hope and a hub of development.
The Archbishop’s infrastructural vision also emphasizes creating multifunctional spaces. Whether in parish compounds, diocesan centers, or mission lands, the goal has been to establish durable projects that host worship, community gatherings, and outreach programs. Under his leadership, the Diocese has moved from mere maintenance to long-term planning and development.
A Voice of Integrity
Beyond infrastructure, Archbishop Ibezim has been widely acknowledged for his spiritual and moral leadership. Prominent voices across Nigeria have lauded his honesty, dedication, and pastoral zeal. According to former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, Archbishop Ibezim is “a man whose leadership inspires both church and society, embodying discipline, faith, and accountability.” Similarly, Senator Uche Ekwunife once remarked that his “clarity of vision and steadfastness have left enduring imprints in the religious and civic life of the people.”
Such testimonies underscore what many in the Province already know: that Archbishop Ibezim is a true servant of God, a shepherd who leads by example, and a leader whose integrity is above reproach.
Call to Reject Fake News
In the face of such overwhelming evidence of his good works, it is disgraceful that individuals and groups would seek to tarnish his name with falsehoods. These malicious stories are not just attacks on Archbishop Ibezim but assaults on the Church itself. Fake news mongers must be warned to desist from their destructive schemes. The public must also exercise discernment, refusing to give oxygen to lies crafted to sow division and discredit faithful servants of God.
The media, too, has a responsibility: to uphold truth, verify facts, and avoid lending credibility to sponsored smear campaigns. Society must not allow the good name of one of its most respected clergy to be dragged through the mud for political or personal gain.
The Bigger Picture
Archbishop Alexander Ibezim stands today not as a man in hiding, as the fake news peddlers claim, but as a visible, tested, and trusted leader whose works speak louder than any false report. He has secured lands for the Church, built sanctuaries for worship, and uplifted communities with spiritual and physical projects that touch lives directly. His ministry remains transparent, his conscience clear, and his vision unwavering.
The public is urged to ignore malicious allegations and instead focus on the undeniable legacy of a man committed to God’s service and the growth of His Church. In defending Archbishop Ibezim, we defend truth, integrity, and the future of the Church itself.
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Odogwu Emeka Odogwu PhD is the Communicator, Diocese of Awka and Province of the Niger, Anglican Communion.
He can be reached on 08060750240 or via email odogwuemekaodogwu@gmail.com
