Tragedy Strikes as Three United Methodists Are Killed in Nigeria Amid Conflict

Three United Methodists were killed amidst escalating violence in Nigeria, specifically in Taraba State, resulting from conflicts between members of The United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church. Both church factions condemned the violence, calling for peaceful resolutions and accountability for the perpetrators. The community faces significant challenges as it navigates these conflicts, emphasizing a need for collective healing and justice.

A tragic incident in Nigeria resulted in the loss of three United Methodists amidst escalating violence between factions of the church in Taraba State. A young man was fatally shot, while two toddlers died in a fire that consumed their family hut. This violence accompanies ongoing conflict between The United Methodist Church of Nigeria and a breakaway faction, the Global Methodist Church, despite the government’s closure of both groups’ churches last September.

Bishops from both factions condemned the assaults and expressed their condolences to the affected community. United Methodist Bishop-elect Ande Emmanuel and Nigeria Lead Bishop John Schol called for justice, urging church leaders to address the ongoing violence and misinformation that fuels animosity. They emphasized the necessity for members to engage peacefully and to alert law enforcement during crises.

The altercation began when Global Methodist Church members gathered at a United Methodist Church facility despite a government mandate to cease church activities due to rising tensions. The violence spread, resulting in the death of Elisha Masoyi, a 27-year-old United Methodist. The children, identified as 4-year-old Abednego and 2-year-old Baby, perished when their hut was set ablaze amid the chaos.

Bishop Schol noted an increasing concern among Global Methodist Church leaders for retaining their standing in Nigeria amidst The United Methodist Church’s growth. He highlighted that most United Methodists remain loyal to their original faith despite a significant faction previously aligning with the Global Methodist Church, which has led to disputes over property rights.

Amidst ongoing conflict, the United Methodist Church has initiated legal measures against the Global Methodist Church regarding property disputes and regional legal stances on LGBTQ issues. Recent decisions by the West Africa Central Conference emphasized adherence to national laws, which disallow same-gender marriages, further complicating tensions in the region.

In response to the recent violence, the UMC bishops reiterated calls for calm and peaceful resolution. Council of Bishops President Tracy S. Malone stated, “We know that violence never resolves conflict or meaningfully addresses injustice.” Community leaders expressed a need for collective support and healing, promoting restraint and justice in face of adversity.

Additionally, the Global Methodist Church’s Bishop John Pena Auta urged members to foster peace and reconciliation, recognizing the unrest was instigated by external forces aiming to ignite conflict within their communities. This alarming episode highlights the profound challenges churches face amid deepening societal divisions in Nigeria.

The recent violence in Nigeria has resulted in the tragic deaths of three United Methodists and heightened tensions between the factions of The United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church. Both church leaders have condemned the violence and called for peace and justice. As the community grapples with these grievances, the burden of resolution rests on church authorities to address the underlying issues with integrity and compassion.

Original Source: www.umnews.org