Eze Egbukole Okoroafo was the first traditional ruler of Egbu Town Autonomous Community, who inaugurated a hereditary dynasty which has lasted one hundred and three years, this year.
Hundred years ago, the early C.M.S. Missionaries from Onitsha led by Archdeacon T.J. Dennis arrived at Egbu in the afternoon of 15th May, 1905. On arrival at Egbu, they were led to Eze Egbukole Okoroafo’s residence. Curious he was he received them with hospitality and joy. He provided them food and offered them accommodation. He surrendered his wives’ thatched houses where Dennis and his men spread their camp bed and mosquito nets. Archdeacon Dennis and his men raised a Sanctuary to God at “Obi” Eze Egbukole where curious Egbu people gathered to hear the Gospel of God and listen to some inspiring Songs such as (i) Zite ihe ozioma di Ngozi.
Impressed by the environment, curiosity of the people and warm hospitality accorded them, Archdeacon Dennis decided to build an altar to God at Egbu. Dennis and his men formally requested for land from Eze Egbukole.
Happily, Egbukole and his people accepted the request and mandated Archdeacon Dennis to go round the town and choose a site. Archdeacon Dennis and his men chose Ogodo Ishialuob (present site of All Saints Cathedral compound).
Satisfied with the site, Archdeacon Dennis went back to Onitsha and brought back a European carpenter, Mr. Brushell and some Obosi people to help him erect the first church at Ogodo and build the Archdeacon Dennis’ house. Egbu people joined them in clearing and building the first church of the C.M.S. Primary School staff quarters (now Community Central School).
By 1907, Archdeacon Dennis started to unfold his tripod vision and mission. Archdeacon Dennis started the translation of the Bible from English into Igbo union language. By that spiritual feat, God spoke to the Igbo race at Egbu.
By 1913, the translation of the Bible into Igbo union language was completed, equally, the gospel of God spread like wild fire throughout the Igbo heart land.
