Escalation of Violence Among Methodists in Nigeria
Violence has erupted among Methodists in Nigeria, particularly during a recent incident at Banyam Theological Seminary between members of the Global Methodist Church and United Methodist Church. Bishop Scott Jones reported physical attacks and injuries after UMC supporters disrupted a GMC worship service. The situation reflects broader tensions related to ownership disputes and doctrinal changes, with calls for peace from both sides amidst ongoing violence in the region.
Tensions within the Methodist communities in Nigeria have escalated into violence following the United Methodist Church’s (UMC) change in its stance on marriage during last year’s General Conference. A recent violent incident occurred on February 17 at Banyam Theological Seminary, amid growing disputes over property ownership between the Global Methodist Church (GMC) and the UMC, which is currently under judicial review.
Bishop Scott Jones reported that GMC members were conducting a worship service at the seminary when supporters of the UMC disrupted the gathering. To avoid further conflict, the conference was relocated; however, UMC supporters returned to the seminary armed, causing destruction and attacking GMC members. Reports indicate multiple injuries and involvement of the Nigerian Army to quell the violence.
Bishop Jones described the aggression faced by GMC members, stating, “Some carried guns and others carried machetes. They invaded the seminary grounds, broke windows and attacked GMC people.” The incident resulted in serious injuries, with some individuals requiring hospitalization, highlighting the violent escalation of tensions between the two groups.
The UMC’s response to the violence has been mixed; Bishop Ande Emmanuel characterized the event as an “altercation,” accusing GMC members of vandalism without an initial direct condemnation. He later condemned violence from all parties while still associating responsibility with the GMC for prior incidents. The GMC has also condemned violence, attributing the latest attack to UMC supporters.
Amid the violence, the annual conference continued, and Bishop Jones urged attendees to refrain from retaliation. Previous violence in December had resulted in fatalities and property destruction among both denominations, complicating the situation further. Reports suggest that ongoing community disputes may contribute to the violence, complicating attributions of responsibility.
The recent violence reflects a troubling trend in Nigeria, with complex social dynamics fueling conflicts. Both the GMC and UMC are now called to prioritize peace and support affected individuals. Given the historical context and familial disputes influencing the current crisis, the UMC must provide clear condemnations for violence to foster reconciliation and avoid further incidents.
The recent violence among Methodists in Nigeria underscores deep-seated tensions regarding church ownership and doctrinal differences following the UMC’s shift on marriage. The attack at Banyam Theological Seminary exemplifies the escalation of disputes into physical confrontations, resulting in injuries and necessitating intervention from security forces. It reflects broader patterns of violence in the region, compounded by communal issues. Calls for peace and reconciliatory efforts from both the GMC and UMC highlight the urgent need for dialogue to mitigate future conflicts.
Original Source: juicyecumenism.com
