A dramatic scene unfolded during the dedication of a major Catholic cathedral in Nnewi, Anambra State, leading to a public relations challenge for the local diocese and disciplinary action within a knighthood order.
Cathedral Dedication Erupted by Knight's Protest
The incident occurred on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the dedication ceremony for the Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral Church in Nnewi. The Mass was presided over by Cardinal Francis Arinze. Following the service, a roll call was taken to appreciate contributors to the cathedral's construction.
However, the proceedings were interrupted by Sir James-Louis Ebube Anaedo, a member of the Knights of St. John International in the diocese. He protested loudly, claiming the church had ignored the significant contributions of the late Senator Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, who he said initiated the cathedral project.
The knight argued that the diocese should have honored Ubah with a minute of silence, invited his family, delivered a eulogy, or erected a statue. He labeled the perceived oversight as "politics taken too far" and, in a stunning move, publicly renounced his membership in the knighthood and his Christian faith. A video of the incident quickly went viral on social media.
Diocese Insists Late Senator Was Recognized
In reaction to the viral controversy, the Director of Catholic Communication for the Diocese of Nnewi, Rev. Fr. Martins Onwudiwe, addressed the issue. Speaking to Legit.ng on Thursday, January 15, Fr. Onwudiwe insisted that the contributions of the late senator were acknowledged.
"The main thing is that our diocesan bishop, Most Rev. Jonas Benson Okoye, recognised the contributions of late Senator Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah in building the cathedral church. This is a fact," Fr. Onwudiwe stated.
He suggested that the recognition given may not have met the specific expectations of the aggrieved knight. "Expectation is a personal disposition," he added. Regarding the renunciation of faith, Fr. Onwudiwe emphasized the church's role as a mother seeking to reconcile and bring back those who stray, stating that "the salvation of the soul is a supreme law."
Knights Order Launches Disciplinary Panel
The leadership of the Knights of St. John International also took swift action. In an exclusive interview in Nnewi on Friday, January 15, the Worthy President of Commandery 511, Noble CY Egbosi, confirmed that a panel had been set up to investigate the member's actions.
Egbosi revealed that the order came from the Supreme Subordinate body. He indicated that by the following week, Sir James-Louis could cease to be a member of the knighthood if found guilty by the investigative panel.
The event has sparked widespread discussion online about recognition, legacy, and protocol within religious and community institutions in Nigeria.
