By Paul Joseph
A tragic incident has claimed the life of a young graduate, Michael Obeten, during a dramatization of the Passion of Christ in Ugep, Cross River State.
Obeten, a mass communication graduate of the University of Cross River State, reportedly died after being struck on the head by a fragment from an explosive cannon used during the performance.
The incident occurred as part of a theatrical re-enactment depicting the final days of Jesus Christ, a tradition commonly observed during Easter.
Witnesses said Obeten, a devoted member of Holy Cross Catholic Parish Ugep, was playing the role of Jesus Christ when the accident happened. A cannon blast, intended to simulate thunder, malfunctioned, sending debris that struck him and left him unconscious.
He was initially rushed to the General Hospital Ugep before being referred to the Federal Medical Centre Abakaliki for advanced treatment. Despite medical efforts, he later succumbed to his injuries.
Family sources described the loss as devastating, noting that Obeten had been caring for his ailing father, who is wheelchair-bound.
The incident has cast a shadow over what is typically a solemn and symbolic religious observance, raising concerns about safety measures during such public performances.
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