UNICROSS Mass Communication Graduate Dies After Cannon Malfunction During Passion of Christ Rehearsal

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

Michael Nnanke Obeten, a Mass Communication graduate of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) and a well-known “Passion of Christ” actor, has tragically died after a cannon malfunctioned during a Good Friday drama rehearsal.

Obeten, popularly called “Englishman,” had played Jesus Christ in the annual Passion Play in 2023 and 2024 and was coaching young actors when the fatal accident occurred in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area.

The incident took place at Station 12, the scene depicting Jesus’ death on the cross. A locally made cannon, known as oginigbo and intended to create a thunder effect, malfunctioned, sending a sharp iron fragment that struck Obeten in the head. He was immediately rushed to a hospital for emergency surgery but did not survive.

Obeten was a member of the 2007 Macosite Alumni Group of UNICROSS, which described his death as tragic and avoidable.

In a statement, the group alleged that the cannon was discharged by unlicensed individuals and called for a full investigation, urging authorities to hold those responsible and event organizers accountable for any lapses in safety protocols.

The alumni also demanded a ban on the use of firearms and cannons at public religious and cultural events, warning that unregulated weapons at such gatherings pose significant risks.

“This accident could have been prevented,” the statement read. “The use of unlicensed firearms at public events has already claimed one life. Without urgent action, more lives could be lost.”