Tragedy struck in Cross River State as a Passion of Christ rehearsal death was recorded during a church drama, where a participant, Michael Obeten, lost his life following a firework malfunction at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Ugep.
The Passion of Christ rehearsal death occurred during activities marking Good Friday, a significant day in the Christian calendar commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Churches across Nigeria traditionally stage dramatizations of the Passion to depict the final hours of Christ’s life.
At Holy Cross Catholic Church in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, the annual passion play has been a longstanding tradition involving youth participation and community engagement.
Obeten, a Mass Communication graduate and active member of the church, had previously played the role of Jesus Christ in earlier editions of the drama.
Details of the Passion of Christ rehearsal death show that the incident happened while Obeten was coaching younger participants during the dramatization.
A locally made firework device, intended to simulate a thunder effect, malfunctioned during the scene.
The device, identified as a local explosive used for stage effects, discharged unexpectedly, and a sharp fragment struck Obeten on the head. He collapsed immediately during the rehearsal.
Initially, some observers believed the fall was part of the performance. However, the seriousness of the situation became evident when blood was seen flowing from his head, nose, and mouth, prompting immediate concern among participants and onlookers.
At the time of the incident, Obeten was not acting a central role but was assisting with stage coordination, including handling microphones and supporting performers during the rehearsal.
The tragic development left members of the church and the wider Ugep community in shock, with activities during the Easter period overshadowed by mourning.
A priest in charge of the parish, reacting to the incident, said:
“It has happened. God knows best.”
The Passion of Christ rehearsal death has raised concerns about safety measures during religious dramatizations that involve special effects.
Church-based passion plays often incorporate sound and visual elements to recreate biblical scenes, but the incident highlights the risks associated with the use of improvised or locally assembled devices.
Community members and observers note that stricter safety protocols and supervision may be required to prevent similar occurrences during public religious performances.
