By Tony Okafor, Awka
Members of the Agulu Anglican Community have formally petitioned the Awka Anglican Diocese, requesting the immediate transfer of Rev’d Canon Sylvester Lumen Christi Eboh from St. Paul’s Church, Nwagu, citing strained relations and alleged disruption of school activities.
In a letter addressed to the Bishop of Awka, the community acknowledged the Diocese’s effort to revitalize the previously inactive Nwagu parsonage by posting the priest.
However, they stated that the expected goals of fostering evangelism and community development had not been achieved.
The petition highlights complaints from various quarters, including allegations of misconduct by a non-Anglican resident, Mrs. Aisha Edwards Maduagwu.
The community stated that the priest’s management of church-run schools had hindered their growth.
These schools, established years ago by Agulu Anglican women, reportedly thrived under previous administrators.
Loud worship activities during school hours were said to disrupt learning and could jeopardize the schools’ approval by the Anambra State Ministry of Education if not addressed.
The letter also accuses Rev’d Canon Eboh of deteriorating relations with the community, running church activities independently, and disregarding advice.
Past conflicts, including disputes over rebuilding shops damaged during government road construction, were cited as evidence of recurring hostility.
The petition reads in part, “Your Grace, recall that Rev’d Canon Eboh has had a sour relationship with the Agulu Anglican Community due to his unwarranted attacks on members of the community… He has instilled fears in some of our people who would rather swallow all his absurdities rather than speaking out.”
The petitioners urged the Diocese to investigate the priest’s background, noting his previous disrobement from the Roman Catholic Church and dismissal from another Anglican diocese over alleged misconduct.
They warned that failing to address the concerns could harm the Church’s reputation and operations in Agulu, concluding with a call for his immediate transfer to preserve peace, unity, and church growth.
Rev’d Canon Eboh had described the allegations against him as false, malicious, and defamatory.
He maintained that all church programmes, including the Wednesday “Mercy Hour,” were lawful and protected under constitutional freedom of worship.
He denied claims of harassment or interference with education, stressing that his ministry operates within ecclesiastical and civil law and that he had taken steps to safeguard church property and maintain order.
