In a move that has stirred widespread conversation, Dr. Echezona Obiagbaosogu, a former Catholic priest of 17 years, has resigned from the priesthood to fully embrace African traditional religion.
Dr. Obiagbaosogu, who now serves as a lecturer in African Traditional Religion at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, made this announcement following the successful defense of his PhD dissertation titled “Rainmaking and Control in Igbo African Medicine: A Case Study of Isieke in Ihiala Local Government Area, Anambra State.”
Explaining his decision, Obiagbaosogu revealed that his journey was deeply rooted in both personal and academic exploration of traditional African spirituality. “I have come to realise that my true calling is to serve my people through the ancient traditions of our ancestors,” he said. “I was a Catholic priest for 17 years before resigning to embrace the traditional African religion.”
His research delves into the indigenous practices of rainmaking and medicine in Isieke, Ihiala, aiming to rediscover and preserve cultural knowledge that has been marginalized or forgotten.
Influence of Early Life
Obiagbaosogu reflected on his upbringing, which played a significant role in shaping his worldview. “I partly lived with my maternal grandfather, who was a traditionalist, while my father, though a Christian, appreciated traditional practices and medicinal plants,” he shared.
“My father was an agriculturist who introduced me to the healing properties of nature. This foundation planted a deep respect for the intersection of spirituality and the environment, which eventually inspired my research.”
From Priesthood to Tradition
Obiagbaosogu’s transition from the Catholic priesthood was not abrupt but rather a gradual process of self-discovery. “I began this research five years ago while still a priest,” he explained. “Over time, I felt the need to fully immerse myself in the traditions I was studying. This decision led to my resignation from the priesthood, and I am now happily married.”
He added, “Everything about this research stems from my curiosity about nature and God. My background as a priest, coupled with my work in the health sector, has helped me understand the spiritual and physical aspects of healing.”
Restoring African Values
Through his academic work and personal transformation, Obiagbaosogu aims to champion the preservation of African heritage. He recounted founding the Society for African Culture during his seminary years, demonstrating his long-standing commitment to promoting indigenous knowledge.
“I conducted this research with the intention of recovering our lost African values,” he said. “This is not just about spirituality but also about reclaiming the cultural identity that connects us to our ancestors and the natural world.”
The news of Obiagbaosogu’s journey has sparked conversations about the intersection of religion, tradition, and identity in modern Africa, with many commending his courage to follow his convictions.
