Escalating Violence Among Methodists in Nigeria: A Crisis of Faith and Unity
Tensions among Methodists in Nigeria have escalated into violence, particularly in a recent incident at Banyam Theological Seminary over property disputes between the Global Methodist Church (GMC) and the United Methodist Church (UMC). Reports of physical attacks and injuries have emerged as leaders from both sides offer conflicting accounts of the events. The ongoing conflict underscores deep-rooted issues that require urgent attention to promote peace and unity.
Tensions among Methodists in Nigeria have risen sharply following a significant change in the United Methodist Church’s (UMC) doctrine on marriage made during last year’s General Conference. The situation has escalated to the point of violence, with the latest incident occurring on February 17 at Banyam Theological Seminary, where ownership disputes between the Global Methodist Church (GMC) and the UMC have resulted in conflict now under judicial review.
Bishop Scott Jones reported that GMC members were gathered for a worship service when UMC supporters disrupted the event. In an effort to maintain order, the conference was relocated. However, UMC supporters returned armed and engaged in violence, resulting in property damage and physical attacks against GMC members, prompting intervention from the Nigerian Army to restore peace.
In a further description of the violence from Bishop Jones, he provided details on the injuries sustained by several attendees during the attack. Some GMC members were hospitalized due to severe wounds, and others were subjected to intimidation and confinement during the conflict. The UMC and GMC have exchanged conflicting narratives regarding the incident, further complicating the matter.
Bishop Ande Emmanuel of UMC initially termed the event an “altercation” and suggested that GMC members were responsible for vandalism, but later urged peace among both factions while reiterating grievances regarding property disputes. The GMC has similarly condemned violence and called for peace while asserting that UMC members were the aggressors in this incident.
The annual conference continued despite this turmoil, with Bishop Jones emphasizing the need for peaceful resolution and rejecting retaliation. Similar violent incidents, such as one in December that left several dead, underscore the alarming trend of violence among Methodists in Nigeria, deeply rooted in longstanding disputes that often intertwine with family conflicts.
The complex situation warrants cautious consideration, as various underlying factors may contribute to these outbreaks of violence. The GMC’s response has been generally constructive, advocating for peace and offering support to affected individuals. A more unequivocal condemnation from the UMC regarding recent acts of violence would be a vital step toward promoting unity among both groups.
The growing tensions between the Global Methodist Church and the United Methodist Church in Nigeria have escalated to violence, highlighting complex underlying issues. Incidents at Banyam Theological Seminary reflect a broader struggle involving property disputes and historical grievances. Both denominations must prioritize peace and cooperative problem-solving to prevent further violence and foster reconciliation in a region already burdened by conflict.
Original Source: juicyecumenism.com
