Escalating Violence Among Methodists in Nigeria: A Call for…

Violence has erupted among Methodists in Nigeria, particularly between the Global Methodist Church and the United Methodist Church, stemming from disputes on church property ownership and changes in church doctrine. An attack occurred on February 17 at Banyam Theological Seminary, leading to injuries amidst conflicting reports and the intervention of the Nigerian Army. Leaders from both churches have issued statements amid escalating tensions, calling for peace and understanding.

Tensions among Methodists in Nigeria have escalated to violence following last year’s General Conference, which altered the United Methodist Church’s historic stance on marriage. The latest conflict occurred on February 17 at Banyam Theological Seminary, where a dispute over property ownership between the Global Methodist Church and the United Methodist Church has arisen and is currently under legal review in Nigeria.

Bishop Scott Jones reported that a worship service was disrupted by individuals supporting the United Methodist Church. In an effort to maintain peace, the conference was moved, but the disruptors later returned to the seminary armed and engaged in vandalism and physical assaults against Global Methodist Church members. The Nigerian Army intervened to restore order after multiple injuries occurred.

Details from the attack revealed that members of the Global Methodist Church suffered significant injuries, including hospitalizations due to physical assaults. Bishop Jones witnessed the violent incident as it unfolded and condemned the aggressors’ actions, stating they invaded the seminary grounds and caused extensive damage.

In response to the violence, both the United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church issued conflicting statements regarding the events. United Methodist Bishop Ande Emmanuel referred to the altercation as involving vandalism by Global Methodist Church members and emphasized a call to police. Initially, he refrained from directly condemning the violence but later denounced all acts of aggression while attributing blame to the Global Methodist Church.

The Global Methodist Church has condemned the violence and asserted that the United Methodist Church bears responsibility for the incidents, urging for mutual peace and understanding. The annual conference proceeded despite the disturbances, with Bishop Jones advocating for harmony among congregants and discouraging retaliatory actions.

Historically, violence in Nigeria, particularly from family disputes, adds complexity to these incidents. Past conflicts have led to tragic outcomes, such as a December event resulting in fatalities and property destruction among both denominations. Reports from sources indicate that tensions may encompass broader socio-economic challenges beyond the property dispute between the two church factions.

This ongoing violence within Nigeria is disheartening. The leadership of the Global Methodist Church has responded positively by advocating for peace and support for affected individuals. It is essential that both church factions remain steadfast in promoting peaceful resolutions to avoid further escalation of conflicts, thereby reinforcing their commitment to their communities.

The recent violence among Methodists in Nigeria highlights the severe impact of doctrinal disputes and property conflicts on community relations. With tensions rising between the Global Methodist Church and the United Methodist Church, it is crucial for leaders of both organizations to condemn violence unequivocally and strive for peaceful resolutions. Continued advocacy for peace and vigilance against potential provocations is essential to restoring community harmony.

Original Source: juicyecumenism.com