***Borokini Presents Evidence, Panel Blames Communication Gap and Moves to Institutionalise Conflict Resolution
In a major development in the ongoing crisis within the Akure Anglican Diocese, the Diocesan Standing Committee has exonerated the Most Revd Simeon Oluwole Borokini, Ph.D., Lord Bishop of Akure Anglican Diocese and Archbishop of Ondo Ecclesiastical Province, of all allegations of financial misappropriation.
The Committee also cleared the Bishop’s wife and children of any wrongdoing, affirming that the allegations made against the family were unfounded.
The children, in particular, were expressly vindicated after a review of all claims.
The decision followed a crucial meeting held on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the Diocesan Headquarters, where the Archbishop personally addressed members of the committee and presented what was described as overwhelming and convincing evidence of clean financial records.
The Bishop had earlier responded to the allegations, providing clarifications on key issues that had generated controversy within the Diocese. On the allegation that about N200 million was spent on the Bishop’s retirement house, it was gathered that only N67.2 million came from diocesan funds, while the balance was covered through donations in cash and materials by friends and well-wishers of the Bishop.
On the alleged sale of diocesan land, it was discovered that no such sale took place. The land in question remains the property of the Akure Diocese.
It was also learnt that a vehicle earlier alleged to have been sold remains intact and in use, contrary to claims circulating within some quarters.
After reviewing the submissions, the Committee unanimously agreed with the Archbishop’s position, affirming that there was no trace of financial misconduct in diocesan dealings.
It further attributed the crisis that has rocked the Diocese in recent times to an information breakdown, which it said fueled misunderstandings, petitions, and internal tensions.
In a bid to prevent a recurrence and to strengthen internal conflict resolution mechanisms, the Committee approved the constitution of a Peace and Reconciliation Committee, to be formally embedded in the Diocesan Constitution.
The committee, chaired by Barrister Eyitayo Jegede (SAN), is expected to serve as a standing mechanism for addressing grievances, mediating disputes, and fostering unity within the Diocese.
Other members include Major General J.A. Omoseebi (Rtd), Mrs. Bolanle Oke, Ven. B.K. Babalola, Ven. Dr. Stephen Fagbemi, Mr. Lekan Festus Oni, and Chief Mrs. Yinka Faloye.
The Standing Committee emphasized that all future grievances must be channeled through appropriate diocesan structures, warning against reliance on hearsay and unverified claims.
Meanwhile, several stakeholders have commended the outcome of the meeting,
Those who spoke include Mr. Joseph Soji-Sunday; Venerable Stephen Sanni, Chairman of the Clergy Fellowship in Akure Diocese; Mrs. Bolanle Oke; Mr. Obaweya; Major General Omoseebi; and Chief Dr. Mrs. Kosemani Kolawole.
They also expressed strong confidence in the ability, integrity, and neutrality of the committee members to deliver lasting peace.
They said the resolutions mark a turning point for the Diocese, with expectations high that the Jegede-led committee will help restore trust, unity, and stability in the Akure Anglican community.
