The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has agreed to suspend all actions on a petition filed against the Archbishop of the Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Alexander Ibezim, pending the determination of a court case on the matter.
At Friday’s court session, counsel to the EFCC, Mr. C. A. Okoli, informed the court that the Commission would maintain the status quo and refrain from any further steps against the cleric until the substantive case is resolved.
Okoli explained that the EFCC’s invitation letter to Archbishop Ibezim, dated October 7, was issued before the agency became aware of the pending litigation.
“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 Archbishop Ibezim, Mr. Beluolisa Nwofor (SAN), confirmed that both parties had mutually agreed that the EFCC would not invite, arrest, or take any action against his client while the suit remains before the court.
Nwofor also urged the court to formally suspend the EFCC’s invitation letter, signed by Mr. Farouk Abdullah on behalf of the Acting Zonal Director, Enugu, until the case is concluded.
In her ruling, Justice Peace Otti directed that a hearing notice be issued to the second respondent, Mr. Echezona Onuigbo, who was absent from the proceedings.
The judge subsequently adjourned the matter to November 27 for hearing of the substantive application and any other pending motions.