The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday assured the High Court of Justice sitting in Awka, Anambra State, that it would suspend all further actions against the Archbishop of the Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Alexander Ibezim, over the alleged sale of church lands.
The Commission, through its counsel, Mr. C. A. Okoli, informed the court that it would maintain the status quo pending the determination of the suit filed against the cleric.
The case originated from a petition dated July 28, 2025, submitted to the Enugu Zonal Directorate of the EFCC by Chief G. Tagbo (SAN) on behalf of one Mr. Echezona Onuigbo. The petitioner alleged that Bishop Ibezim had no legal authority to sell any church property, arguing that the Church’s Board of Trustees (BOT) remains the sole legal custodian of such assets.
Addressing the court, Okoli explained that the Commission’s invitation letter to Bishop Ibezim, dated October 7 and signed by Mr. Farouk Abdullah on behalf of the Acting Zonal Director, Enugu, was issued before the EFCC became aware of the pending court case.
“We are law-abiding and will stay all actions pending the determination of the substantive application. We are, however, requesting a date for hearing,” Okoli told the court.
Earlier, counsel to Bishop Ibezim, Mr. Beluolisa Nwofor (SAN), informed the court that both parties had reached an understanding that the EFCC would refrain from inviting, arresting, or taking any further action against the Archbishop while the matter remains before the court.
Nwofor also urged the court to suspend the EFCC’s invitation letter until the determination of the substantive suit.
In her ruling, the presiding judge, Justice Peace Otti, directed that a hearing notice be issued to the second respondent, Mr. Echezona Onuigbo, who was absent in court.
Justice Otti subsequently adjourned the case to November 27, 2025, for the hearing of the substantive application and any other pending motions.
