Three United Methodists were killed in Nigeria amid escalating violence linked to conflicts between The United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church. The bishops condemned the attacks and called for peace, urging both church communities to maintain calm and accountability. This tragedy highlights the ongoing tensions within Nigerian Methodist communities and the need for resolution.
In rural Nigeria, escalating conflicts have led to the tragic deaths of three United Methodists, including a young man and two toddlers, amid increasing violence. A 27-year-old United Methodist, Elisha Masoyi, was shot during clashes that erupted in Munga Dosso, Taraba State, following an unauthorized gathering by members of the breakaway Global Methodist Church. This conflict occurred despite the government ordering the closure of both denominations’ churches due to ongoing unrest in the region.
The toddlers, identified as 4-year-old Abednego and 2-year-old Baby, perished when their family hut was set on fire amidst the violence. In response to these horrific events, United Methodist bishops have expressed their outrage and offered prayers for the affected community. They implore the faithful to maintain a commitment to peace during these troubling times and to report such violent incidents to the authorities immediately.
In a statement, Bishop-elect Ande Emmanuel and Nigeria Lead Bishop John Schol condemned the violence, highlighting the need for just actions and accountability from church leaders. They particularly urged leaders of the Global Methodist Church in Nigeria to take responsibility for escalating tensions and to cease practices that generate conflict and fear among community members.
The situation has necessitated a legal response, with The United Methodist Church filing a lawsuit against the Global Methodist Church to reclaim its recognized position as a denomination in Nigeria. There is growing concern that the breakaway faction may lose its foothold due to the UMC’s consistent growth and the return of former members to the denomination.
United Methodist Church leaders continue to engage with local and state authorities to clarify the church’s operations and rights in Nigeria. However, the GMC maintains a narrative depicting itself as a victim of the UMC’s policies, claiming that governmental bias against homosexuality has fueled a divide. Moreover, increased dialogue between the two groups is vital to addressing and resolving conflicts.
In the wake of the violence, Bishop John Schol expressed concern over the ongoing harassment and physical attacks against United Methodists, which have reportedly escalated since the fall. The Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church has called for peace and healing for the grief-stricken families and the larger community involved.
Rev. Eli S. Yakku, the dean of cabinet for the UMC in Nigeria, echoed the need for prayers and counseling, emphasizing the community’s need for justice and accountability. His statement highlighted the urgency for calm, as over 11 houses belonging to United Methodist members were set ablaze, displacing numerous families and causing many to seek refuge in nearby areas.
The Global Methodist Church’s Nigeria Bishop John Pena Auta has also appealed to the community for reconciliation and lasting peace, noting the robbery of tranquility by unknown agitators. His remarks stressed that constructive outcomes, rather than chaos, must be the objective for communal well-being.
In summary, the tragic deaths of three United Methodists reflect the deepening conflicts in Nigeria, particularly between factions of the church. United Methodist bishops are calling for peace and urging leaders to address violence and misinformation. There is a pressing need for both churches to work collaboratively towards resolution and reconciliation in the face of ongoing tensions and incidents of violence. The situation calls for supportive actions from church leaders to foster unity and peace among their congregants and communities.
Original Source: www.umnews.org
