Police stop UNICAL church service over fears of violence

Police operatives in Cross River State intervened to stop a church service at the University of Calabar's Chapel of Redemption, averting potential bloodshed.

The conflict erupted on Sunday when the university caretaker committee and an interim chaplain, appointed by the Vice-Chancellor, attempted to take control of the service from the chapel's officiating chaplain, Rev. Joseph Ushie. This led to confusion among worshippers, prompting the police to terminate the service.

DCP Godwin Etim of the state command stated that he ordered the service's termination due to palpable tension and the risk of violence. He reported speaking with the involved parties, the chaplain, the interim chaplain, and a Board of Trustees member, who agreed to suspend the service to maintain order. A meeting was scheduled for Monday at the police command.

This intervention occurred despite a subsisting order from the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt. The court had previously restrained the university's Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Offiong Offiong, and others acting through him from interfering with the chapel's premises and activities. Rev. Ushie had filed a suit seeking to prevent intimidation or assault while exercising his right to worship. The court had granted an injunction maintaining the status quo pending further hearings.

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There is palpable tension, and with what I see here, if I allow the service to continue, it will lead to bloodshed in this church.