Dr. Echezona Augustine Obiagbaosogu, a former Catholic priest of 17 years, has shocked his congregation and the entire Catholic community by resigning from his position to pursue a new calling – as a native doctor specializing in rain making.
Dr. Obiagbaosogu, who teaches African Traditional Religion (ATR) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, had become increasingly fascinated with traditional African spirituality and the art of rain making. He allegedly spent several months studying under a renowned native doctor, learning the intricacies of the craft.
In a statement, Dr. Obiagbaosogu explained his decision, saying: “I have come to realize that my true calling is to serve my people through the ancient traditions of our ancestors.
I am not turning my back on God, but rather, I am embracing the divine in a more meaningful and authentic way.”
Dr. Obiagbaosogu also shared his thoughts on the relationship between magic, religion, and science.
“Civilizations began with magic, moved to religion, and today we are talking about nanoscience and other fields.
“The white man was able to explore these magical laws, codify them, and call them science. So, science is essentially what was once magic.
“We can also access these magical laws, which we call African magic or religion. It is not the African magic of Nollywood.
“The African magic of Nollywood is one of the tools used to destroy our culture and values.
“African magic is actually African science, which remains unexplored. We must begin to modify, codify, and document it for posterity.”
When asked about his decision to leave the priesthood, Dr. Obiagbaosogu said, “Life is a process. Things happen, and people begin to look left and right.
“One important thing is for the person to know themselves. If you understand yourself and remain open to reality, you will begin to make decisions for your life.”
He declined to discuss the specifics of his resignation, saying it was a matter of personal conviction.