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A former Catholic priest, Dr. Echezona Obiagbaosogu, has announced his resignation after 17 years in the priesthood to embrace African traditional religion.
Dr. Obiagbaosogu, who lectures on African Traditional Religion at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, said he became captivated by traditional African spirituality and the art of rainmaking. Following the defense of his Ph.D. dissertation titled "Rainmaking and Control in Igbo African Medicine" on Wednesday, he expressed a desire to recover lost African values eroded by colonial influence.
“I have come to realise that my true calling is to serve my people through the ancient traditions of our ancestors. My research and personal experiences have shown me the deep spiritual and medicinal value of African practices,” he stated.
Early Influences
Dr. Obiagbaosogu shared that his background played a significant role in shaping his interest. While his father was a Christian, his maternal grandfather was a traditionalist, exposing him to both perspectives. "I learned to appreciate nature and its mysteries from my father and grandfather. This curiosity about the divine and nature continued to grow during my years as a Catholic priest," he explained.
Rainmaking Research
His research into rainmaking involved studying under a native doctor and exploring its significance in Igbo African medicine. “My findings reveal that rainmaking is not mere myth but a reality practiced by dibia (native doctors). This tradition is part of Africa’s unexplored scientific and spiritual heritage,” he noted.
He emphasized that his exploration of African traditions does not reject God but rather seeks a deeper, authentic connection with the divine. "The transition from magic to religion to science shows that these realms are interconnected. What we call African magic is essentially African science yet to be documented and developed," he added.
Decision to Leave Priesthood
When asked about his resignation, Dr. Obiagbaosogu said it was a matter of personal conviction. “Life is a process. As we grow, we discover ourselves and make decisions that align with our truths. For me, this is about embracing my roots and serving my people in a meaningful way,” he explained.
He now hopes to continue his academic work, contributing to the preservation and understanding of African traditions for future generations.
