Lawrence Ndubeze, Awka
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has assured the Awka High Court in Anambra State that it will halt all actions against the Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Alexander Ibezim, over the alleged sale of church lands, pending the determination of the case.
Counsel to the EFCC, Mr. C. A. Okoli, told the court that the Commission would maintain the status quo and refrain from any further action against Bishop Ibezim until the court delivers its ruling.
Okoli explained that the EFCC’s invitation letter to the bishop, dated October 7, was issued before the Commission 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,” he stated.
Earlier, counsel to Bishop Ibezim, Mr. Beluolisa Nwofor (SAN), informed the court that both parties had agreed that the EFCC would not invite, arrest, or take any further action against the archbishop while the case is pending.
Nwofor also urged the court to suspend the EFCC’s invitation letter, dated October 7 and signed by Farouk Abdullah on behalf of the Acting Zonal Director, Enugu, until the matter is fully determined.
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 matter until November 27 for the hearing of the substantive application and any other pending motions.
It will be recalled that leaders of the Awka Diocese of the Anglican Church had petitioned the EFCC over the alleged unauthorised sale of church lands by Bishop Ibezim.
The petition, dated July 28, was submitted to the Enugu Zonal Directorate of the EFCC by Chief G. Tagbo (SAN) on behalf of Mr. Echezona Onuigbo of St. Faith Cathedral, Awka.
The petitioners alleged that Bishop Ibezim had no right or authority to sell any church property, as such assets are legally held in trust by the Church’s Board of Trustees (BoT).
