By Jerry Ocheme
In an age where culture is increasingly diluted by modernization, and spirituality is often confined within the four walls of the church, a remarkable Catholic priest , Rev Fr Boniface Agenyi Opaluwa, also known widely as “Igala Fada” is boldly bridging both worlds. More than just a clergyman, he has become a voice of conscience, a cultural ambassador, and a beacon of hope to the people of Igalaland.
Igala Fada is redefining what it means to be a priest. His pastoral calling is not limited to preaching and sacraments; it spills into the streets, into communities, into the hearts of the poor and forgotten. His humanitarian works are far-reaching — from providing scholarships for indigent students to championing causes that uplift the downtrodden. His priesthood is hands-on and deeply compassionate.
What distinguishes him even further is his eloquent and intentional use of Igala tradition. During his homilies, he weaves ancient Igala proverbs and folklore into his biblical messages, making the Gospel not just relevant, but unforgettable. His audiences, whether in church or at a public lecture, are drawn into a vibrant experience of both faith and culture. Every word he speaks resonates with wisdom, humor, and meaning — an embodiment of oratory rooted in heritage.
His passion for promoting Igala culture goes beyond sermons. He is a living canvas of the people’s identity — adorning traditional attire with pride, promoting indigenous music, speaking the language with dignity, and elevating local stories and art forms. For him, there is no contradiction between being a faithful Catholic and being a proud Igala son.
This passion recently found expression in his support for local folk musician, Maja from Okpo. By bringing this traditional storyteller into the spotlight, Igala Fada is not only preserving an endangered oral tradition but also demonstrating how culture can be used to teach values and connect generations.
Similarly, his spotlighting of the cyclist Jekabeche, who undertook a daring ride from Ankpa to Abuja, is another testament to his commitment to grassroots excellence. These stories, often ignored by mainstream platforms, are amplified by Igala Fada’s voice, giving hope and pride to local dreamers.
In the political landscape, he has emerged as a courageous advocate for unity among Igala leaders. Through strategic use of social media and public engagement, he calls for reconciliation, collaboration, and vision-driven leadership. His message is clear: a fragmented people cannot rise, but united, the Igala nation can reclaim its place of dignity and influence.
One of the most inspiring aspects of Igala Fada’s ministry is his effort to demonstrate that being a priest doesn’t require abandoning one’s roots. His work challenges the assumption that tradition and Christianity are incompatible. Rather, he shows how culture can be purified, celebrated, and used as a tool for evangelization — just as Jesus Christ embraced his Jewish traditions, festivals, and parables to teach eternal truths.
This approach raises a deeper question for the Church in Africa: how can cultural values be preserved within Christian life without compromising doctrine? The answer lies in discernment and education. Healthful traditions — storytelling, respect for elders, communal living — should be preserved and celebrated. Idolatrous elements must be discarded. Igala Fada walks this fine line with spiritual sensitivity and cultural intelligence.
It is worth noting that the Catholic Church itself supports this approach. Documents like Gaudium et Spes and Evangelii Nuntiandi encourage the inculturation of the Gospel. As Pope St. John Paul II famously said, “A faith that does not become culture is a faith not fully received.” In light of this, Igala Fada’s work is not an innovation — it is a continuation of a Church teaching that values the soul of a people.
Archbishop Fulton Sheen, a renowned Catholic thinker, once remarked, “Charity is not a passing gesture — it is a way of life.” This sentiment finds full expression in Igala Fada’s life and ministry. His charity is consistent, visible, and deeply rooted in love for both God and neighbor.
But as we celebrate his efforts, we must also recognize the urgency of preserving the fast-eroding Igala language and values. His recently registered foundation should become a vehicle for cultural reclamation, launching media campaigns, school initiatives, and community programs to teach, preserve, and celebrate the essence of who we are.
To further solidify his impact, there is a strong case for him to harmonize his numerous advocacy efforts into an annual Igala socio-cultural and faith-based festival. Such a platform could serve as a confluence for music, language, storytelling, youth dialogue, leadership reflection, and spiritual renewal — showing that culture and Christianity can indeed walk hand in hand.
As he wears multiple hats — spiritual leader, cultural promoter, social critic, and humanitarian — Igala Fada must continue to embody the threefold mandate of the priest: priest, prophet, and king. Balancing westernization and African values will require wisdom, mentorship, and prayer. But if anyone can do it, he can.
As someone who has watched his journey closely, I, Jerry OCHEME, believe it is time to redefine and support his advocacy — transforming it into a structured movement with clear thematic areas, timelines, and goals. His work deserves more than applause; it deserves active participation.
And finally, a word of commendation to the Catholic Diocese of Idah. The quality of intellectually mobile and spiritually rooted priests emerging from that diocese is a light to the region. Their role in reviving our drying culture cannot be overstated. With continued support, collaboration, and vision, Igala Fada and others like him can lead us into a future where faith strengthens culture, and culture amplifies faith.
Jerry Write In From Kano, Nigeria.
