Violent Clashes Erupt Between United and Global Methodists at Nigerian Seminary

Violent clashes erupted at a Nigerian seminary between the United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church, sparked by disputes over property control. Reports of assaults and vandalism have prompted calls for peace from church leaders amidst a backdrop of increasing tensions related to doctrinal disagreements.

Violent confrontations occurred between The United Methodist Church (UMC) and the Global Methodist Church (GMC) at a seminary in Nigeria, primarily due to disputes over control of properties and assets. Bishop Ande Emmanuel reported these incidents on social media, detailing a church fire instigated by GMC members and an attempted takeover of the Banyam Theological Seminary campus on separate occasions this month.

The bishop noted that prior warnings had been issued by local authorities for the GMC to avoid UMC properties, which were ignored, leading to altercations. Conflicting accounts of the clashes have emerged, prompting police involvement for further investigation. Emmanuel condemned all acts of violence and characterized them as assaults on the identity and heritage of the UMC in Nigeria.

He stated that these violent acts may be linked to ongoing tensions arising from the GMC’s unlawful occupation of UMC premises, framing the encounters as aggressive efforts to intimidate and seize UMC properties. Emmanuel urged GMC leaders to promote peace amidst the continued litigation regarding properties.

In response to these conflicts, GMC Bishop Scott Jones described events at the seminary as disruptions initiated by UMC members during their planned conference. He claimed their gathering was moved for safety reasons, and that UMC supporters returned with weapons, attacked GMC individuals, and vandalized property, resulting in numerous injuries.

Historical context reveals that violence has previously erupted between the denominations over similar disputes, including a December incident in which three UMC members were killed. The GMC Assembly expressed sorrow over the loss of life and condemned violence, calling both UMC and GMC individuals to act as peace ambassadors. The tensions stem partly from differing stances on issues such as same-sex unions and the legitimacy of disaffiliation votes within regional UMC bodies.

The clashes between the United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church in Nigeria reflect significant tensions over property control and doctrinal differences. Reports of violence have escalated, prompting calls for peace and reflection upon faith values. Both denominations face ongoing challenges in resolving these disputes amicably while ensuring the safety and integrity of their congregations amidst conflicting narratives.

Original Source: www.christianpost.com