Hi Erroll,
From what you described in your original post, it was a one-off situation since it's not an iPad feature.
Which version of iPadOS are you running?
Find the software version on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod
To find the software version installed on your device, go to Settings > General, then tap About.
If you notice that you're running a dated version of iPadOS, please update your device, followed by testing to see if you're still experiencing the same issue.
Update your iPhone or iPad
1) Back up your device using iCloud or your computer.
2) Plug your device into power and connect to the internet with Wi-Fi.
3) Go to Settings > General, then tap Software Update.
4) If you see more than one software update option available, choose the one that you want to install.
5) Tap Install Now. If you see Download and Install instead, tap it to download the update, enter your passcode, then tap Install Now. If you don't know your passcode, learn what to do.
We ask you to update because updating your device is a vital troubleshooting step that can potentially resolve your issue.
If you’re still experiencing the same problem, try the steps here: If an app on your iPhone or iPad stops responding, closes unexpectedly, or won’t open. However, since the Messages app is one of the built-in apps that cannot be deleted, you’ll want to skip that step: Delete built-in Apple apps from the Home Screen on your iOS 14 or later or iPadOS device or Apple Watch - Apple Support
We recommend the steps above because they will show you what to do if an app on your iPhone or iPad doesn't work as expected.
Please let us know the outcome.
Thanks for using the Apple Support Communities.
Cheers!