On Sunday, the Cross River State Police Command halted a service at the Chapel of Redemption, located at the University of Calabar, to stop potential unrest. Trouble began when an interim chaplain and a caretaker committee, both backed by the university administration, tried to take over a service led by the current pastor, Rev. Joseph Ushie.
The situation sparked significant alarm among those present. Deputy Commissioner of Police Godwin Etim explained that the police stepped in because they feared the escalating friction would turn violent. After meeting with Rev. Ushie, the interim appointee, and a representative from the Board of Trustees, officers persuaded everyone to end the session to maintain peace.
Authorities have requested that all involved individuals attend a follow-up meeting at police headquarters this Monday. This conflict persists even though a Federal High Court in Port Harcourt previously issued an order preventing Vice-Chancellor Prof. Offiong Offiong and university officials from interfering with the chapel. Rev. Ushie had sought legal help via his attorney, Chief Mba Ukweni, to stop ongoing harassment. Justice Phoebe Ayua granted an injunction demanding that both sides keep the status quo until the next court hearing on August 20, 2026. The police maintain that peaceful dialogue remains the best path forward.
