About Paul Nwokocha

Paul Nwokocha is a gospel artiste with close to 40 albums to his credit. But he didn't become a known name until a few years ago when he did 'Nkwa Praise,' a gospel album that somewhat became a household item. But much as the album shot him into prominence, it also brought with it trials and tribulations that almost made him to commit suicide. The album did not only turn him to a villain, it caused his kinsmen in Aba, Abia State, to declare him a persona non grata. Why? They believed the instant wealth he experienced could not have come from the album alone, but also from some rituals. It was a grave allegation that forced the musician to release another album entitled Akam di Ocha (my hands are clean), which incidentally won him the Best Gospel artiste award at the recently held Nigeria Music Awards 2008. Spectacles ran into him in Owerri and he recalled the turbulent times and how he was able to wade through them. Nwokocha started his career as a musician 25 years ago. In primary school, he was reputed by many as a very good singer. So much so that he was invited to perform at many functions. “I remember that each time our SS 3 students were leaving school after their exams and the school held a valedictory service for them, I was always called upon to sing. After singing, some guests would come to me and offer to pay for my education. I finished my primary and secondary education on scholarship.” Since it was singing that made it possible for Nwokocha to get some formal education, he could not but hold on to his talent. He therefore decided to become a professional musician.