In a move that has sparked widespread attention, Dr. Echezona Obiagbaosogu, a former Catholic priest of 17 years, has officially left the priesthood to embrace African Traditional Religion. Obiagbaosogu, a lecturer in African Traditional Religion at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, revealed his decision during a recent academic presentation, citing his fascination with traditional African spirituality and the art of rainmaking.
The Trumpet Newspaper gathered that Obiagbaosogu’s transition was deeply influenced by his research and personal journey. His Ph.D. dissertation, titled “Rainmaking and Control in Igbo African Medicine: A Case Study of Isieke in Ihiala Local Government Area, Anambra State,” delves into the lost values and practices of African traditions. He disclosed that Africa’s rich cultural heritage has been eroded by colonial influences and emphasized the need for its revival.
Reflecting on his journey, Obiagbaosogu revealed that his upbringing played a significant role in shaping his beliefs. He grew up with a maternal grandfather who practiced traditional religion, while his father, a Christian agriculturist, maintained a deep appreciation for nature and traditional medicine. These early experiences, combined with his academic curiosity, set him on a path of rediscovery.
“As a priest, I began researching rainmaking five years ago,” he shared. “This curiosity led me to study under a renowned native doctor, where I learned the intricacies of African spirituality. I eventually realized my true calling was to serve my people through the ancient traditions of our ancestors. This is not a rejection of God but an embrace of the divine in a more authentic and meaningful way.”
Obiagbaosogu’s academic pursuit of rainmaking and control is a bold attempt to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity. He views rainmaking not as mere superstition but as a form of African science, deeply rooted in the practices of *dibia* (native doctors). “Rainmaking is real. It’s an art and a science that requires deeper exploration and understanding,” he said.
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He also criticized the portrayal of African traditions in modern media, particularly Nollywood, accusing it of misrepresenting African magic. “What is termed African magic in Nollywood is a distortion of our culture. True African magic is African science, which remains largely unexplored. The white man codified what was once called magic and labeled it science. We must do the same for our traditions.”
Now married, Obiagbaosogu sees his transition as a natural evolution of his personal and spiritual journey. “Life is a process, and self-awareness is key,” he noted. “Understanding oneself and staying open to reality leads to making informed decisions about one’s path.”
His decision has sparked conversations about the intersection of religion, tradition, and identity in contemporary African society. For Obiagbaosogu, this journey is about preserving and revitalizing the rich cultural heritage of Africa, ensuring it remains a beacon for future generations.
As debates swirl around his move, one thing is certain: Dr. Echezona Obiagbaosogu’s decision challenges long-held perceptions, opening up new dialogues about spirituality, science, and the preservation of African values.
