Escalating Violence Claims Lives of United Methodists in Nigeria
Violence in rural Nigeria claimed the lives of three United Methodists amid escalating hostilities between two factions of the church. Bishops condemned the attacks and called for peace, emphasizing the importance of unity and reconciliation. Meanwhile, the UMC is pursuing legal actions against GMC regarding property ownership. Efforts to maintain community safety and calm are ongoing as tensions rise, leading to displacement among families.
Recent clashes in Nigeria resulted in the deaths of three United Methodists, marking an escalation in ongoing sectarian violence between The United Methodist Church of Nigeria and the Global Methodist Church. The conflict began after a gathering of Global Methodist Church members took place, even though both churches had been ordered to close due to worsening violence in the region. A young man, Elisha Masoyi, was shot during the confrontation, while two toddlers died in a fire set by the violence.
In response to these tragic events, United Methodist bishops expressed their outrage and solidarity with the affected families, urging both denominations’ members to prioritize peace amid rising tensions. The statement emphasized the need for community leaders, particularly those from the Global Methodist Church, to encourage non-violence and justice. They also condemned misinformation that can further aggravate existing hostilities.
The Global Methodist Church’s Bishop John Pena Auta called for the community to adopt a more peaceful approach, acknowledging that unrest serves no one’s interests. Church leaders emphasized the importance of working together towards reconciliation and urged members of both denominations to engage constructively in the ongoing dialogue, free from fear and hostility.
The UMC has also taken legal action against GMC to contest their claims over property and assets following the separation. This has raised concerns about the future relationship between the congregations and increased tensions in a landscape already fraught with conflict over differing ideologies, particularly around LGBTQ issues, as outlined by Nigerian law.
Local United Methodist leaders are engaging with police and government officials to enhance understanding and support for their cause. A growing number of former members are returning to the UMC, strengthening its presence against the challenges posed by GMC’s maneuvers. However, ongoing harassment and violence have led to heightened fears within the community.
The United Methodist Church is seeking peace amid this chaos, with leaders calling for the community to remain peaceful and responsive to conflict resolution. They offered prayers and counseling to those affected by the violence and reaffirmed their commitment to justice and accountability in the face of these tragic events. Statements from the Council of Bishops emphasized the need for healing and efforts to prevent such violence in the future.
The situation remains critical in Munga Dosso, where numerous homes were destroyed. Women’s and children’s safety is now a pressing concern as many have been displaced. Auta reiterated the need for community healing and collaboration as part of a longer-term peace strategy to avoid further chaos.
The violent clashes in Nigeria resulting in the deaths of three United Methodists underscore the escalating conflict between The United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church. Church leaders are actively seeking peace and justice while urging their congregations to refrain from violence. Efforts continue to restore calm and provide support for affected families amidst ongoing tensions and communication breakdowns between the rival factions.
Original Source: www.umnews.org
