Escalating Violence Among Methodists in Nigeria Raises Concerns

Tensions have escalated between the United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church in Nigeria, leading to violent confrontations, particularly during a February 17 incident at Banyam Theological Seminary. Bishop Scott Jones recounted attacks from UMC supporters against GMC members, which resulted in several injuries. Both churches have issued statements, with conflicting narratives about the violence, while ongoing property disputes complicate the situation further.

Tensions among Methodists in Nigeria have grown significantly since the United Methodist Church (UMC) changed its traditional stance on marriage during last year’s General Conference. These escalating tensions have now led to violent incidents, particularly an altercation on February 17 at Banyam Theological Seminary, where ownership disputes arise between the Global Methodist Church (GMC) and UMC. This issue is currently being processed in the Nigerian legal system.

Bishop Scott Jones reported that while GMC members were conducting a worship service at the seminary, UMC supporters disrupted the event. In an attempt to de-escalate the situation, conference members relocated to a different venue. However, UMC supporters returned armed, causing damage and physically assaulting GMC members, resulting in multiple injuries that required military intervention.

In a subsequent statement, Bishop Jones described the chaos: “A group of UMC supporters disrupted the opening worship… They invaded the seminary grounds, broke windows and attacked GMC people.” As a result, several GMC members, including a presiding elder, required hospitalization, while others were physically restrained during the violence.

Media reports indicate that conflicting narratives exist between the UMC and GMC regarding the incident. Although UMC Bishop Ande Emmanuel characterized the events as an “altercation,” he initially refrained from unequivocal condemnation of the violence inflicted upon GMC members. Bishop Emmanuel later condemned violence while still emphasizing ongoing property disputes with the GMC.

The GMC has consistently condemned violence from both parties, while also asserting that UMC members instigated the recent attack. Despite the unrest, the annual conference proceeded with scheduled ordinations, during which Bishop Jones advocated for peace and encouraged attendees to seek non-violent resolutions rather than retaliate.

Previously, a violent occurrence in Munga Dosa resulted in fatalities and damage, further complicating the dynamics between UMC and GMC supporters. As narratives surrounding the violence often intertwine with longstanding family disputes in Nigeria, discerning the precise motivations behind such attacks remains challenging. The current violence tragically highlights the broader issues plaguing Nigeria, yet both churches are stressing calls for peace and support for the affected community members.

The situation among Methodists in Nigeria has become increasingly volatile, marked by incidents of violence stemming from disputes between the Global Methodist Church and the United Methodist Church. Recent altercations have resulted in injuries and significant property damage, prompting calls for peace from church leaders. As these tensions continue, it is crucial for both denominations to prioritize reconciliation and address underlying issues, including property disputes and cultural conflicts that may drive violence.

Original Source: juicyecumenism.com