Bishop Alphonso Chukwuma Onyeabo, O.B.E., was a trailblazer, becoming the first Igbo man to be ordained as a bishop in orthodox Christianity. Born in 1879 in Onitsha, a royal from the Umuezearoli family of the Ezeolisa kindred, his lineage was rooted in both leadership and faith. His mother hailed from the renowned Umuasele village and was an early Christian convert. She had two children: Agboma and Chukwuma, who would later become Alphonso. His early upbringing, shaped by his mother’s faith, set him on a path of religious devotion.
Education and Early Career
Onyeabo attended the C.M.S. School in Onitsha, excelling in his studies, and moved on to the prestigious CMS College in Asaba in 1897. After completing his education, he worked as a schoolmaster from 1900 to 1902. His dedication to religious education led him to St. Andrews College, Oyo, in 1903, where he studied under Bishop Jones. By 1904, he had qualified as a catechist and spent the next few years teaching in Onitsha and surrounding areas.
In 1908, he married Dora Nwugoye from Umunachi near Ogidi, and together they had ten children: Sidney, Suzanna, Dora, Eunice, Priscilla, Alphonso, James, Benjamin, David, and Sophia. His family grew alongside his commitment to his calling.
Religious Ascension and Work in Owerri
In 1909, Onyeabo returned to Oyo to be ordained a deacon and soon after was transferred to Owerri in 1912, where he would dedicate over two decades to ministerial work. His contributions to the region were significant, especially his collaboration with Archdeacon Dennis in translating the Bible into Igbo. He was instrumental in establishing churches and schools across Owerri and the Midwest, overcoming challenges with resilience and determination.
Onyeabo was ordained a priest in 1914 and eventually became the Superintendent of the Owerri District, overseeing a vast area and playing a pivotal role in the spread of Christianity. His leadership left an indelible mark on the religious landscape of the region.
Consecration as the First Igbo Bishop
In 1937, Bishop Onyeabo’s remarkable contributions to the Anglican faith were recognized at a general conference in London. He was unanimously chosen for consecration as the first Igbo Anglican bishop, becoming the first bishop of Imo extraction. His consecration took place at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, officiated by Archbishop Cosmo Lang. Alongside him was Bishop Johnson of Sierra Leone. Notably, Justice Louis Mbanefo, another prominent figure, witnessed this historic moment.
Upon returning to Nigeria, Bishop Onyeabo served as the Bishop on the Niger Delta from 1937 to 1948, with his headquarters in Aba. His leadership continued to inspire both Africans and Europeans alike. He was known for his wise counsel, administrative skills, and deep understanding of his people. His physical presence was as imposing as his spiritual stature, standing over six feet tall with a gentle and kind disposition.
Honours and Legacy
In the final year of his life, 1954, Queen Elizabeth II bestowed upon Bishop Onyeabo the prestigious honour of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (O.B.E.). Sadly, the investiture was done posthumously after his passing on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1954. His death marked the end of a monumental chapter in the history of Christianity in Nigeria.
The Times of London, in its March 19, 1954, edition, wrote: “Bishop Onyeabo was a man of remarkable stature and bodily strength, being over 6 ft high and 18 stone in weight: his disposition was gentle and kindly. He was a wise administrator and counsellor to Africans and Europeans alike, and had deep knowledge and understanding of his own people among whom he had great authority.”
Bishop Alphonso Onyeabo’s contributions extended beyond his religious work. He was a key figure in the development of the Igbo language, especially in collaboration with Archdeacon T. J. Dennis. Together, they worked on the Union Igbo translation, which played a crucial role in unifying the language. His deep involvement in the politics of language development demonstrated his enduring commitment to his people’s cultural heritage.
Memorials and Recognition
Bishop Onyeabo’s legacy lives on through various landmarks named in his honour. In Enugu, a street in the GRA area bears his name — Bishop Onyeabo Street. This road runs behind the student hostels and the Anglican Chaplaincy of ESUT Park Lane Teaching Hospital, eventually leading to the Trans-Ekulu Bridge.
Additionally, there are roads and schools named after him in Aba, Onitsha, and other parts of Nigeria. Each of these monuments serves as a reminder of his towering influence in both religious and social spheres.
Bishop Alphonso Chukwuma Onyeabo remains an iconic figure in Nigeria’s religious history. His pioneering spirit, dedication to faith, and contributions to the Igbo language and culture ensure that his legacy endures. As the first Igbo man to be ordained an Anglican bishop, his life and work continue to inspire generations.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
