SUSPENDED CATHOLIC PRIEST FORCES HIS WAY INTO ALTAR, LEADS MASS DESPITE BAN — SHOCK IN ABA DIOCESE!

SUSPENDED CATHOLIC PRIEST FORCES HIS WAY INTO ALTAR, LEADS MASS DESPITE BAN — SHOCK IN ABA DIOCESE

There was drama and tension on Sunday morning at St. Benedict Catholic Parish, Ngwa Ukwu, in Aba Diocese, Abia State, as Rev. Fr. Francis Anyanwu, a suspended priest, forcefully took over the altar and led the 9:00 AM Mass — in total defiance of his suspension by the diocesan bishop.

Fr. Anyanwu, who was officially suspended in July 2025, had been barred from celebrating Mass and carrying out any priestly duties after using social media to make serious allegations against the Bishop of Aba Diocese, several priests, and even a bishop in Spain.

According to eyewitness reports, the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Felix Ezeoke, is currently on holiday and had appointed Rev. Fr. Bernard Iloka to stand in for him. However, just as Fr. Bernard was preparing for Mass, the suspended priest walked into the sacristy and declared he would be the chief celebrant.

Fr. Bernard reportedly reminded him that he was under canonical suspension, but Fr. Anyanwu shouted back, “To hell with the Bishop. This is my home parish!” To avoid a public altercation at the altar, Fr. Bernard stepped back. Fr. Anyanwu then proceeded to the sanctuary with altar servers and began the Mass. But in a stunning response, the entire congregation stood up and walked out, refusing to participate in a Mass led by a suspended priest.

The Block Rosary Crusade, who had concluded a three-day retreat and were scheduled to hold their Thanksgiving during the Mass, were among those deeply affected. The spiritual event was cancelled, and parishioners were left shocked and heartbroken.

In response, the youths of Amapu Ngwa, Fr. Anyanwu’s home village, have declared that no Mass will be allowed in the parish until justice and order are restored.

This incident has sparked outrage and serious concern within the Catholic community, as many await an official response from the Diocese of Aba.

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David Joshua Oliver

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Oliver David Joshua is a seasoned media professional with a passion for impactful journalism and strategic leadership. As the Managing Director and Editor-In-Chief of Sele Media Africa, he oversees the organization’s editorial vision, ensuring high standards of truth, balance, and bold reporting. Known for his sharp editorial eye and commitment to excellence, Oliver plays a key role in shaping the voice of Sele Media Africa across the continent. His leadership continues to drive innovation, credibility, and growth in Africa’s digital media space.

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