Nnewi Catholic Knight Faces Expulsion for Renouncing Faith Over Ifeanyi Ubah Legacy
The Ancient and Noble Order, Knights of St. John International, Assumption Commandery 511 in Nnewi has taken decisive action against one of its members following a highly publicized incident. Sir James Okoye, also known as Ebube Anaedo, has been formally expelled from the knighthood after he publicly renounced his Christian faith during a cathedral dedication ceremony.
Protest Over Cathedral Recognition Sparks Controversy
The dramatic events unfolded on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, during the dedication of Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral in Nnewi. Sir James Okoye took the extraordinary step of renouncing Christianity in protest against what he perceived as the church's failure to adequately recognize the contributions of late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah to the cathedral's construction.
According to reports, the knight expressed frustration that the diocese had not observed a minute of silence, invited the late senator's family, delivered a eulogy, or erected a statue in Ubah's honor. Calling this omission "politics taken too far," his actions quickly gained traction across social media platforms, sparking widespread discussion about religious devotion and political recognition.
Constitutional and Canonical Grounds for Expulsion
The expulsion letter, signed by Nobel Cyprain Egbosi, Worthy President of the Knights of Saint John International, Assumption Commandery 511, and dated January 21, 2026, outlines the formal reasons for the disciplinary action. The decision followed an investigation into the January 14 incident and Okoye's subsequent failure to provide satisfactory explanations to a panel convened by the knighthood.
The letter cites multiple violations:
- Chapter VI, Section 23 of the KSJI Constitution requires all members to remain practicing Roman Catholics, with membership forfeiture for non-compliance
- Chapter II, Section 33 identifies conduct unbecoming of a knight as a recognized offence within the Order
- Chapter VI, Section 2 prohibits retaining members who violate Catholic Church provisions or belong to condemned societies
The document specifically describes Okoye's actions as "apostasy - the total repudiation of the Christian faith," placing him in direct violation of the church's spiritual authority that the Order has sworn to protect.
Immediate Consequences and Church Response
Following the expulsion decision, Sir James Okoye faces immediate consequences including:
- Stripping of all membership rights, privileges, and access to Order property
- Prohibition from wearing the knight's uniform or using insignia and titles
- Cessation of all activities associated with the Knights of St. John International
The expulsion letter emphasizes the Order's unwavering commitment to promoting love for the Roman Catholic Church and respect for its spiritual authority, stating clearly that such positions allow no tolerance for apostasy.
Church Clarifies Recognition of Ifeanyi Ubah's Contributions
In response to the growing controversy, the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi has provided clarification regarding their recognition of the late senator's contributions. Reverend Father Martins Onwudiwe, Director of Catholic Communication for the diocese, explained that Bishop Jonas-Benson Okoye did acknowledge Ifeanyi Ubah's role during the dedication ceremony's roll call.
Church leaders noted that while they understand the hurt expressed by the knight, abandoning Christianity does not represent an appropriate solution to such grievances. The diocese has expressed commitment to reconciliation efforts and reaching out to the aggrieved knight as this matter continues to generate significant attention both within religious circles and across digital platforms.
The incident highlights the complex intersection of religious devotion, political legacy, and institutional protocols within Nigeria's religious landscape, particularly in regions with strong cultural and political identities like Anambra State.
