The Cross River State Police Command has stopped a church service at the University of Calabar's Chapel of Redemption following a dispute over the leadership of the service and fears that the confrontation could escalate into violence.

The standoff began when the university's caretaker committee and an interim chaplain appointed by the Vice-Chancellor attempted to take control of the Sunday service being conducted by the chapel's Chaplain, Rev. Joseph Ushie.

The disagreement created tension and confusion among worshippers, prompting the police to intervene and terminate the service.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Godwin Etim said he ordered the suspension because there was a risk that the situation could lead to bloodshed. He said the chaplain, interim chaplain and a member of the chapel's Board of Trustees agreed to suspend the service to prevent a breakdown of law and order.

The police subsequently invited the parties to the command for a meeting and urged them to remain calm while efforts are made to resolve the dispute.

The development comes amid an existing legal dispute over control of the chapel. A Federal High Court in Port Harcourt had issued an injunction restraining the university's Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Offiong Offiong, and persons acting through him from interfering with the chapel's premises and activities.

The court also directed the parties to maintain the status quo pending the hearing of the substantive case scheduled for August 20.