History was joyfully made in Ogor Affa, Udi Local Government Area, Enugu State, as the community welcomed its 4th indigenous priest and the 29th indigenous priest of Greater Affa, Rev. Fr. Benson Chukwudi Onuduoha. His journey to the priesthood, which began in 1996 after obtaining a degree in Food Science and Technology from Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) at the then Abakaliki Campus (now Ebonyi State University), culminated in his ordination on the 19th of October, 2024, as a Catholic Priest of the Diocese of Ijebu-Ode.
Rev. Fr. Onuduoha, who left a promising career as a Graduate Assistant at the university, endured 28 years of rigorous priestly formation. His ordination brought immense joy to the people of Ogor Affa, who celebrated his dedication and steadfastness in answering the call of God.
The celebration began with a Liturgical Mass at St. Nicholas Station, Ogor Affa, presided over by Rev Fr. Benson Chukwudi Onuduoha, had Rev. Fr. Dr. Uchenna Cletus Amu, the first indigenous priest of Ogor Affa and the 17th of Greater Affa as a Co-celebrant, Filled with gratitude, Fr. Amu danced joyfully before the congregation, likening his rejoicing to that of King David. He expressed profound thanks to God and the people of Ogor Affa for their unwavering support and tradition of hosting special receptions for their indigenous priests.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Dr. Ken Chigbo, one of Fr. Benson’s spiritual mentors since the inception of his journey, highlighted the priest’s unwavering faith, comparing him to the three wise men who steadfastly followed the star to pay homage to Christ despite King Herod’s distractions. He encouraged the congregation to emulate this steadfastness, emphasizing that Fr. Benson’s faith and reliance on God were the key factors of his success.
Rev. Fr. Benson Chukwudi Onuduoha, in his response, gave glory to God for the grace to persevere and achieve his ordination. He also appreciated the people of Ogor Affa for standing by him through the trials of his priestly formation. Known for his brilliance and versatility, Fr. Onuduoha is a polyglot who speaks Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, French, and Latin fluently, a testament to his diverse upbringing and academic excellence. A former Senior Prefect of Community High School Ogor Affa (1988/89), he is celebrated as an erudite scholar and preacher of the Gospel who promises to be a blessing to the Catholic Church in Nigeria.
The reception and first Holy mass was attended by a large crowd, including dignitaries and members of the community from far and near. Rev. Fr. Christopher Ngwu, the Parish Priest of St. John the Baptist Parish Affa, expressed his gratitude to God and the people of Ogor for honoring one of their own. The event also evoked fond memories of Rev. Fr. Francis Enyi, the 2nd indigenous priest of Ogor Affa, who went to be with the Lord in 2020, while Rev. Fr. Uchenna Michael Odenigbo, the 3rd indigenous priest, served as a co-celebrant.
Reflecting on the life of Rev. Fr. Benson, the community drew valuable lessons in patience and trust in God. While his peers who towed the part of Lecturing are now Professors and those who chose marriage are Grandparents, Fr. Benson’s unwavering faith, fulfillment and commitment to God’s call stand as a powerful testimony to the virtues of waiting on the Lord.
As we embrace the new year 2025, may Fr. Benson’s story inspire us to persevere in faith and trust in God’s timing in all things. We pray for God’s continued blessing on his ministry and for more harvest in the Lords vineyard.
To God be the glory!
Dr. Anthony Obiora Ude
(Lecturer, Entrepreneur, and Consultant)
Email: obiora.ude@unn.edu.ng
