Clashes Between UMC and GMC Escalate Over Property Disputes in Nigeria

Violent clashes emerged between The United Methodist Church (UMC) and the Global Methodist Church (GMC) in Nigeria over property control. Bishop Ande Emmanuel condemned the violence following incidents involving arson and vandalism at church properties. The conflict, linked to tensions surrounding ownership disputes and LGBTQ policy changes, has escalated, with calls from church leaders for peace and cooperation.

Violent altercations erupted between The United Methodist Church (UMC) members and the Global Methodist Church (GMC) at a seminary in Nigeria, fueled by disputes over property control. Bishop Ande Emmanuel of the Nigeria Episcopal Area condemned these clashes in a Facebook statement, detailing two significant incidents occurring earlier this month. The first incident involved the arson of a local UMC church in Keru village on February 6, allegedly by GMC members, followed by a February 17 disturbance at Banyam Theological Seminary where GMC members vandalized UMC property.

Bishop Emmanuel emphasized that local authorities had previously instructed the GMC to avoid UMC properties, but these directives were ignored, leading to conflict when UMC members sought to reclaim their assets. He stated, “An altercation occurred. The UM District Superintendent for the area and others confirm these events. There are two different stories of what happened, so it is now a matter for the police, who have our full cooperation.” He denounced the violence, labeling it an affront to faith and a threat to UMC identity and heritage.

The tension is linked to the GMC’s alleged unlawful occupation of UMC properties across Nigeria. Emmanuel called for peace efforts from GMC Bishops John Pena Auta and Scott Jones amid ongoing litigation over contested assets. The GMC, when contacted, did not provide immediate comment. Meanwhile, GMC Bishop Scott Jones characterized the seminary event as a GMC conference disrupted by UMC members, claiming UMC supporters attacked during the Assembly.

Jones reported that GMC participants faced aggressive confrontation, stating, “Some carried guns and others carried machetes. They invaded the seminary grounds, broke windows and attacked GMC people.” The GMC reported injuries, including hospitalization for at least six individuals due to the clashes, demonstrating the escalating violence.

Last year, the UMC’s General Conference voted to amend church regulations regarding LGBTQ matters, intensifying existing tensions in regions like Nigeria, where such practices are illegal. Disputes regarding affiliation within the Episcopal Area emphasize a fractured relationship, with some UMC members opposing claims to disassociate with the mainline body. Previous violence in Munga Dosa resulted in fatalities and property destruction, amplifying the calls for peace from church leaders.

The violent clashes between members of the UMC and GMC in Nigeria highlight ongoing tensions about property rights and ideological differences regarding LGBTQ issues. These skirmishes illustrate the continuing conflict within the Methodist community in Nigeria, with bishops urging for peace and resolution amid significant disputes. As both sides navigate claims of aggression and property ownership, the necessity for dialogue and de-escalation remains urgent.

Original Source: www.christianpost.com