Members Reject Return Of Anglican Bishop In Delta

The crisis rocking the Cathedral Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Sapele in Sapele local government area of Delta State, has assumed another dimension.

The Anglican Diocese of Sapele has faced a prolonged power struggle involving members demanding the removal of Bishop Blessing Erifeta over allegations of corruption, high-handedness and financial impropriety, leading to protests, court cases and internal divisions.

At a church service yesterday on Boyo Road, Sapele, a crisis ensued following the arrival of Bishop Erifeta, accompanied by security personnel, apparently to resume the leadership of the diocese.

Eyewitnesses said the service had been proceeding peacefully before the arrival of the bishop and his entourage, while his presence generated tension among worshippers, some of whom opposed what they understood to be plans for him to reassume his former position as bishop of the diocese.

Members of the congregation insisted that they did not recognise his return as their spiritual leader.

Some worshippers told journalists that they had earlier received information suggesting that Bishop Erifeta might be reinstated following a directive purportedly issued by the primate of the church.

During the service, a group of women with placards expressed dissatisfaction with the situation and called for continued development and stability within the diocese.

At the church premises, Evangelist Akuroma Otuike, a former People’s Warden of All Saints Church, Sapele; Rev. Gabriel Enudje and Pastor Freeborn Ejowovwo of Irhodo Anglican Church, Jesse, said members of the diocese were opposed to what they described as the imposition of leadership without broad consultation.

The clerics and lay leaders stated that in their view, the diocese had witnessed significant progress under the current arrangement led by what they referred to as the Rescue Group of Churches.

They cited improvements in church infrastructure, the welfare of the clergy and administrative processes as reasons for their position.

According to Otuike, “salaries and allowances of priests, pastors and church workers are now paid promptly, while promotions are handled transparently and without delay.

“Interested members of the public can visit churches within the diocese to observe ongoing development projects,” he said.

Rev. Enudje also shared his personal assessment of changes within the Cathedral Church, noting that recent years had seen infrastructural improvements, including flooring and walkways.

“These developments have enhanced the appearance and functionality of the church premises. The placards reflected concerns about leadership, church administration, and the future of the diocese,” he posited

Recalled that the primate of the Church of Nigeria and other bishops have tried mediation, the conflict has led to locked churches, clashes with security forces, and factions forming, though recent reports suggest a strong push for reconciliation and a planned service to end the decade-long division, backed by the primate’s directives.