The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Godwin Etim, on Sunday, led a tactical squad to halt the service at the Chapel of Redemption Church situated within the University of Calabar campus, following a lingering leadership tussle.
The squad summoned the two factions to report at the state police command on Diamond Hill Road, Calabar by noon on Monday.
Pandemonium had ensued when the armed squad stormed the church, with worshippers scampering for safety.
Despite the intervention of policemen, the two factions continued to lay claims to its leadership.
Explaining his presence, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, said intelligence at his disposal indicated that if the police had allowed the service to continue, it would have resulted in deadly attacks.
“My duty first as a police officer is to protect lives and property. From what I have seen, if I allow the service to continue, it might lead to bloodshed in this church,” he told the congregation.
Etim said he had engaged all contending parties before taking action. “I have spoken to the two Reverends, and the two chaplains.
“I had also spoken to the members of the board of trustees, and they all agreed that the service should end because of the tension.
you can see by yourself what has been going on here, so if we don’t apply this strategy now, a fight might break out.
“We’ve summoned all factions for dialogue tomorrow by 12 noon.”
The Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Joseph Ushie and Rev. Israel Eyo are locked in a succession crisis, which matter is before the court.
