Michael Obeten, an actor who previously played Jesus Christ in the Passion Play, died after a locally made cannon malfunctioned and struck him during a Good Friday drama rehearsal in Ugep, Cross River State. The incident occurred at Station 12, where Obeten was coaching younger actors. The cannon, used to simulate thunder effects, was reportedly handled by unlicensed individuals, leading to severe brain injuries that proved fatal.
The 2007 Mass Communication Alumni Group of the University of Cross Rivers expressed shock and sadness over the incident, describing Obeten’s death as “tragic and avoidable”. The group is calling for stricter safety regulations at public events to prevent similar incidents.