Operatives of the Cross River State Police Command on Sunday intervened in a tense situation at the University of Calabar (UNICAL), halting a church service at the Chapel of Redemption to prevent a possible outbreak of violence.
The disruption followed a leadership dispute involving the university’s caretaker committee and an interim chaplain reportedly appointed by the Vice-Chancellor.
The group attempted to take over a service already being conducted by the substantive chaplain, Rev. Joseph Ushie, leading to confusion among worshippers.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that the situation quickly escalated, prompting security concerns within the church premises.
Deputy Commissioner of Police, Godwin Etim, who led the intervention, stated that the decision to stop the service was necessary to avert a breakdown of law and order.
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“There is visible tension, and allowing the service to continue could have resulted in bloodshed,” Etim said.
Following discussions with key stakeholders, including the chaplain, the interim appointee, and a member of the church’s Board of Trustees, all parties agreed to suspend the service.
The police have scheduled a meeting with the concerned parties to resolve the dispute amicably.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that a standing order from the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt had earlier restrained the university’s Vice-Chancellor and his representatives from interfering in the chapel’s affairs.
Rev. Ushie had approached the court seeking protection against alleged intimidation and interference. The presiding judge granted an injunction, directing all parties to maintain the status quo pending the hearing of the substantive case, scheduled for August 20.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding administrative control within the institution’s religious body, raising concerns over governance and respect for judicial orders.
Authorities have urged all parties to remain calm as efforts continue to restore peace and order.
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