Rev. Father Survives Car Explosion on New Year’s Eve

Rev. Michael Abang Obi, a Catholic priest in Cross River State, narrowly escaped death when his car exploded on New Year’s Eve. The incident occurred shortly after he returned from officiating a wedding and stopped to assist local women near his parish.

Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle was completely destroyed by the fire. Rev. Obi, who serves as the administrator of St. Joseph de Worker Parish in Bansara and Vicar for Priests in the Catholic Diocese of Ogoja, emerged unharmed. He is widely respected as the diocese’s longest-serving vicar, having spent 25 years coordinating other priests.

Recalling the event, Rev. Obi explained, “I witnessed a wedding at a nearby parish and drove back to my parish. On entering the premises, I saw a Rev. Sister with her group fetching firewood in the school compound. I stopped to direct them to a better spot. As I got back into the car and was about to drive off, there was an explosion. I was lucky to have the door open. I am saved. Thanks be to God.”

He expressed gratitude for his safety, saying, “What else do we say than to return all glory to God the Father, Almighty!”

The explosion was also confirmed by Sir Nandi Bette, another senior priest in the Ogoja Diocese. No further details about the cause of the explosion have been disclosed.