Fatal accident occurs during rehearsal for Easter play in Cross River state

A devastating incident occurred on Good Friday, claiming the life of Michael Obeten, a Mass Communication graduate and actor who had portrayed Jesus Christ in the Passion of Christ play, when a faulty firework exploded during a rehearsal for the passion play, fatally wounding him.

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The tragedy took place at Holy Cross Catholic Church Ugep, located in the Ugep Local Government Area of Cross River State, where Obeten was an active and dedicated member.

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Obeten had previously played the role of Jesus Christ in 2023 and 2024, and this year, he was guiding young actors through the passion play when the accident happened.

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The incident occurred at station 12 of the play, where Jesus' death on the cross is depicted, when a local explosive device known as "oginigbo" malfunctioned, producing a sharp iron fragment that struck Obeten's head.

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As Obeten fell to the ground, initial thoughts were that he was simply acting out the scene, but the severity of his injuries soon became apparent as blood began gushing from his head, nose, and mouth.

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At the time of the accident, Obeten was wearing a black shirt, black trousers, and a baseball cap, and was assisting the actors with various props, including microphones and paint.

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The community, including the clergy and church members, was left in a state of mourning throughout the Easter period following the tragic incident.

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The Rev Father in charge of Holy Cross Catholic Church declined to comment on the incident, stating simply, "It has happened, God knows best."