Three United Methodists Killed Amid Conflict in Nigeria

In Nigeria, three United Methodists were killed amidst escalating conflict between The United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church. A young man was shot, while two toddlers died in a fire. Church leaders condemned the violence and called for peace and accountability from Global Methodist leaders, urging members to refrain from further conflict and promote healing in the affected community.

A tragic incident in Nigeria claimed the lives of three members of The United Methodist Church amid escalating tensions between it and the Global Methodist Church. A gunfire attack resulted in the death of Elisha Masoyi, 27, while two toddlers, Abednego, 4, and Baby, 2, perished in a fire that engulfed their hut during the conflict in Munga Dosso, Taraba State. This violence occurred after a congregation of Global Methodist Church members met despite government orders to close both denominations due to ongoing unrest.

United Methodist bishops have condemned these violent acts, extending support to the grieving community. They have urged church members to maintain peace and have called upon the leaders of the Global Methodist Church to work towards justice for those harmed. Bishop John Pena Auta emphasized the importance of community harmony following these tragic events.

In the wake of the attacks, 10 additional church members have sustained injuries, with Bishop-elect Ande Emmanuel and Nigeria Lead Bishop John Schol offering prayers for the community. They expressed outrage over the violence that struck fellow Christians, calling for accountability from Global Methodist Church leaders. The bishops stressed the need to cease all acts of intimidation and violence.

Additionally, Schol highlighted the ongoing struggle over church property as tensions rise. He indicated that a considerable number of United Methodists who had initially left the denomination are returning. As the leadership dynamics within the churches shifted, Schol detailed the extensive efforts to educate government officials and foster better relations with law enforcement.

The United Methodist Church has taken legal action against the Global Methodist Church, seeking to reestablish its rights over church properties and withdraw the operating license granted to its breakaway counterpart. Following a recent conference, amendments were made to ensure adherence to local laws regarding LGBTQ issues, which has further aggravated the situation.

In a statement released afterward, UMC leaders offered condolences to the affected families, denouncing the violence. They urged all church members to promote peace and exercise compassion in their communications. Moreover, their collective hope is for unity and healing within the fractured community of United Methodists in Nigeria.

Rev. Eli S. Yakku from the United Methodist Church in Nigeria has called for healing, emphasizing the dire need for prayers and counseling for those affected by this tragedy. He reported that numerous homes were destroyed that led to the displacement of families, revealing the broader impact of violence on the community in Munga Dosso.

Bishop Auta of the Global Methodist Church urged local members to foster reconciliation and avoid a cycle of animosity. He identified that the conflict was instigated by external forces aimed at creating unrest, reaffirming that cooperation and mutual respect are essential for progress and communal well-being.

The recent conflict has underscored the deepening divisions between The United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church in Nigeria, resulting in tragic loss of life and widespread suffering. Church leaders are calling for peace and reconciliation amidst unlawful attacks. The community’s healing will require unwavering commitment to justice, compassion, and enduring unity against the backdrop of violence.

Original Source: www.umnews.org