EFCC halts action on the petition against Archbishop Ibezim

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By Madu Obi

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has promised to halt action against Most Rev, Dr. Alexander Ibezim, Bishop of Awka Diocese, Anglican Communion on the petition brought against him over the alleged sale of church land, pending the determination of the prevailing suit on the matter.

Chief G. Tagbo SAN, who is counsel to the petitioner, Echezona Onuigbo, had submitted a petition dated July 28, to the Enugu Zonal Directorate of the EFCC, complaining that Bishop Ibezim had no right to sell any church property as he allegedly did because the Board Of Trustees (BOT) of the church is the only legal custodian of such assets.

When the case came up, counsel to the EFCC, Mr C. A. Okoli, told the court that the anti graft body would maintain the status quo and refrain from any further action against Ibezim, pending the court’s decision.

Okoli explained that the invitation letter to Ibezim, 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 said.

Earlier, Ibezim’s counsel, Mr Beluolisa Nwofor (SAN), informed the court that both parties had agreed that the EFCC would refrain from inviting, arresting, or taking any further action against the Archbishop while the case is pending.

Nwofor also urged the court to suspend the EFCC’s invitation letter dated October7, and which was signed by Mr. Farouk Abdullah on behalf of the Acting Zonal Director, Enugu, until the case is determined.

The presiding Judge, Justice Peace Otti, consequently directed that a hearing notice be issued to the second respondent, Mr Echezona Onuigbo, who was absent in court.

Otti adjourned the matter to November 27, for hearing of the substantive application and any other pending motion.