Man dies during Passion of Christ rehearsal in Cross River

By Emma Una

A Mass Communication graduate, Michael Obeten, a Passion of Christ actor, died on Good Friday while teaching youths how to act the part, when a local firework meant for effect malfunctioned and shot him dead.

The tragic incident occurred at Holy Cross Catholic Church Ugep, in Ugep Local Government Area, Cross River State. Obeten is a dedicated member of the church.

Obeten, who had played Jesus Christ in 2023 and 2024, was coaching young actors during the passion play this year when the incident happened.

At station 12, where Jesus dies on the cross, a local bomb known as “oginigbo”, meant to create a thunder effect malfunctioned. Its sharp iron struck Obeten’s head. He fell, and despite initial thoughts that he was acting, blood gushing from his head, nose, and mouth revealed the severity of the situation.

Obeten, wearing a black shirt, black trousers, and a baseball cap, was assisting actors with microphones, paint, and other needs when the accident occurred.

The incident left the clergy, church members and the entire community in mourning throughout the Easter period.

The Rev Father incharge Holy Cross Catholic Church said he had nothing to say about the incident. “It has happened. God knows best,” he said.

Vanguard News