A church service at the Cathedral Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Sapele, in Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State, was briefly disrupted on Sunday following the arrival of Bishop Erifeta, accompanied by security personnel, in what appeared to be an attempt to resume leadership of the diocese.
The service, held along Boyo Road, Sapele, was reported to have been proceeding peacefully before the arrival of the bishop and his entourage. Eyewitnesses said 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 expressed strong resistance, insisting that they did not recognize 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. These claims, however, could not be independently verified.
During the service, a group of women were seen carrying placards expressing dissatisfaction with the situation and calling for what they described as continued development and stability within the diocese. The placards reflected concerns about leadership, church administration, and the future of the diocese.
Speaking separately 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, welfare of clergy, and administrative processes as reasons for their position.
According to Evangelist Otuike, salaries and allowances of priests, pastors, and church workers are now paid promptly, while promotions are said to be handled transparently and without undue delay. He encouraged interested members of the public to visit churches within the diocese to observe what he described as ongoing development projects.
Rev. Enudje also shared his personal assessment of changes within the Cathedral Church, noting that infrastructural improvements, including flooring and walkways, had been carried out in recent years. He maintained that these developments have enhanced the appearance and functionality of the church premises.
The group appealed to the leadership of the Anglican Communion to consider measures they believe would promote peace and unity within the diocese. They also called on the Delta State Government and concerned citizens to help mediate and prevent further tension.
Meanwhile, it was reported by witnesses that Bishop Erifeta, his associates, and the accompanying security personnel later left the premises without further incident. Sources who spoke to the press indicated that discussions surrounding the leadership of the diocese are ongoing.
The Anglican Diocese of Sapele has faced a prolonged crisis, primarily a power struggle involving members demanding the removal of Bishop Blessing Erifeta due to alleged corruption, high-handedness, and financial impropriety, leading to protests, court cases, and internal divisions. While the Primate of the Church of Nigeria and other bishops have tried mediation, the conflict has seen locked churches, clashes with security, and factions forming, though recent reports (January 2026) suggest a strong push for reconciliation and a planned service to end the decade-long division, backed by the Primate’s directives.
