A tragic accident has cast a shadow over Easter preparations in Cross River State after a stage actor, Michael Obeten, lost his life following a cannon misfire during a Good Friday rehearsal in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area.
Obeten, said to be a regular performer who previously portrayed Jesus Christ in the popular Passion Play, was reportedly mentoring younger actors when the incident occurred.
Sources said the mishap happened at Station 12 of the rehearsal, where a locally fabricated cannon used to simulate thunder effects suddenly malfunctioned.
The device, popularly known as oginigbo, was said to have exploded unexpectedly, sending fragments that struck the victim in the head and left him with critical injuries.
A statement by the 2007 Mass Communication Alumni Group of the University of Cross River, signed by Lesoda Ada, alleged that the device was being handled by unlicensed operators at the time of the incident.
The group described the development as both tragic and preventable, noting that the lack of proper safety measures contributed to the fatal outcome.
Obeten was rushed to a medical facility and scheduled for emergency surgery but later succumbed to the injuries.
The incident has since triggered fresh concerns over safety standards at public events, particularly those involving the use of explosive or simulated devices.
The alumni association called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, urging authorities to prosecute those found culpable and enforce stricter regulations on the use of such equipment.
They also advocated a ban on the use of cannons and similar devices at public gatherings unless operated by certified professionals.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the Cross River State Police Command, Sunday Akata, said the incident had been brought to the attention of the police, although no formal complaint had been filed at the Yakurr Division.
He added that preliminary information suggested the actor was buried on April 7, 2026, after he died while receiving treatment at a hospital believed to be located in Abakaliki.