CCC Calabar Parish 2 Circuit Headquarters, located in Cross River State is currently undergoing a three-month lockdown. The Parish will be muted from now till March 2023. The traditional ruler of the town has ordered the immediate closure of the Parish due to an uncontrollable situation that has been rocking the Parish over the issue of Shepherdship.
The crisis began after the youth alleged that Oluso Saturday, who had been serving in the Parish for years had overstayed beyond the time limitations of his appointment. It was claimed that Oluso Saturday had introduced negative attitudes and behaviors that were detrimental to the Parish. These negative narratives included the smoking of Indian weed within the premises of the Parish, while Yahoo Yahoo Boys had taken control of the authority in the Parish through their disruptive behavior.
The uncomfortable situation forced the youth to request the transfer of Oluso Saturday from their Parish. However, this request was strongly rejected by some Elders who had a close friendship with Oluso Saturday, particularly the Patron of the Parish, who also held the position of the Parochial Committee Chairman.
The community parish has not yet achieved the full autonomy expected of a house of God. In response to the demands of the youth, the Pastor took action by transferring a new Shepherd to the Parish after the recently concluded Imeko Convention in 2023. However, upon the arrival of the new Shepherd, a roadblock was encountered from the Patron, who questioned the authorization of the transfer letter. The Patron claimed that the Pastor’s signature had been forged. After numerous calls to the Pastor’s office on that particular day, it was confirmed that the letter had indeed been signed by Pastor Rev EMF Oshoffa. The argument then shifted to the new shepherd’s inability to work at CCC Calabar Parish 2.
In response, the youth firmly opposed the imposition of the Patron, who had been acting as the sole administrator of the Parish. The disagreement escalated into a physical confrontation among members of the Parish, causing concern among the traditional authorities in the town that it might lead to a breakdown of law and order.
Consequently, the signals emanating from CCC Calabar Parish 2 compelled the King to order the immediate closure of the Parish for the next three months. During this time, he will seek a lasting solution to the crisis.
We find ourselves in a situation where traditional rules hold sway over the future of a Parish of God.
It is our sincere hope that this period of lockdown will provide an opportunity for reflection, dialogue, and reconciliation. We understand the concerns and frustrations of the youth, and we are committed to address their grievances in a fair and just manner.
