A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Echezona Obiagbaosogu, has resigned from the priesthood after 17 years to embrace African traditional religion.
Obiagbaosogu, 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*.
In his doctoral research, Obiagbaosogu delved into the ancient African practice of rainmaking, describing it as a combination of natural elements, spiritual communication, and African science. According to him, rainmakers, known as *dibia ogwu* in Igbo culture, use herbs, roots, and hydroscopic stones to influence atmospheric conditions and bring about rainfall.
The study identified three methods of rainmaking: the use of clay tripods and concoctions, the construction of coldrone structures with fermented herbs, and psycho-spiritual techniques that rely on the power of the human mind.
Speaking about his decision, Obiagbaosogu revealed that his journey was inspired by a desire to reconnect with his cultural heritage and the spirituality of his ancestors, which he believes has been eroded by colonial influences.
“I have come to realise that my true calling is to serve my people through the ancient traditions of our ancestors. I was a Catholic priest for 17 years before resigning to embrace the traditional African religion,” he said.
Obiagbaosogu attributed his interest in African spirituality to his upbringing. He shared that his father, a Christian who also valued traditional medicinal practices, and his maternal grandfather, a traditionalist, instilled in him a deep appreciation for indigenous knowledge and nature.
He also recounted a pivotal experience during his time in the seminary, where he witnessed a family friend successfully demonstrate rainmaking. This event, he said, sparked his curiosity and set him on a path of academic and spiritual exploration.
“My research in rainmaking and control is rooted in finding the truth and understanding how native doctors contribute to preserving African values. I discovered that it is indeed a reality and done by *dibia* (native doctors). I am not turning my back on God, but rather, I am embracing the divine in a more meaningful and authentic way,” he explained.
During his research, Obiagbaosogu spent months studying under a renowned native doctor, learning the intricacies of rainmaking and its spiritual connection to Igbo culture. He emphasised that traditional African practices should be regarded as science rather than superstition.
