By CHRISTIAN NJOKU

A Federal High Court in Port Harcourt has granted an interim order restraining, the University of Calabar (UniCal) from interfering with activities of the Chapel of Redemption church located within the campus

Justice Phoebe Ayua, granted the order following a case filed by Joseph Ushie, the Chaplain, Chapel of Redemption, UniCal campus.

Ushie had gone to court to challenge his alleged suspension as chaplain, restriction from the university premises, and eviction from the chaplain’s official residence.

Joined in the suit are: the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Offiong Offiong, the Registrar, Dr Chukwuka Icha, the university, and three others.

The judge further granted leave for accelerated hearing of the matter during the 2026 legal vacation in accordance with the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019.

“The respondents are restrained from entering, taking over, locking up or interfering with activities of the chapel pending the determination of the substantive suit.

“They are further restrained from taking any further steps relating to the issues in dispute, all parties are to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the case,” the judge said.

Ushie adjourned the matter until Aug. 20 for hearing of the substantive suit, and ordered that hearing notices should be served on the respondents before the adjourned date. (NAN)