EFCC Pledges to Obey Court Order Restraining Arrest of Awka Anglican Bishop

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has pledged to abide by a court order that temporarily restrains it from arresting the Anglican Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev Dr Alex Ibezim.

The pledge was made during proceedings at an Anambra High Court sitting in Awka on Friday.

The threat of arrest stemmed from a petition lodged against the bishop by a member of the diocese, Prince Echezona Bonti Onuigbo, alleging several misdeeds. Bishop Ibezim, who denied the allegations, subsequently obtained a restraining order against the Commission.

During the court session, C.A. Okoli, counsel for the EFCC, confirmed receipt of the order and promised the Commission would neither issue any further invitation letters to the bishop nor attempt to arrest him until the case is judicially determined.

Similarly, Beluolisa Nwofor, SAN, counsel for Bishop Ibezim, confirmed the agreement, stating that his client would also stay all action pending the determination of the substantive suit.

The trial judge, Justice Peace Otti, adjourned the case to November 27, 2025, for the hearing of the substantive suit. The petitioner, Prince Onuigbo, was absent in court.