The leadership of the United Methodist Church (UMC) in Nigeria has declared its resolve to resist any attempt to erase its presence in the country, calling on the international Christian community and other stakeholders to intervene in its ongoing dispute with the breakaway faction, the Global Methodist Church (GMC).
This comes in response to the recent attack on Bamyam Theological Seminary in Bambur, located in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State. UMC officials described the attack as an effort to erase their identity, citing the vandalization of church signposts, landmarks, and logos at the seminary chapel.
In a statement released on Wednesday in Jalingo and signed by Bishop Ande I. Emmanuel, the UMC in Nigeria condemned the alleged actions of the GMC, accusing the faction of greed, division, and lawlessness.
“We will not allow the legacy of the United Methodist Church in Nigeria to be destroyed by those who seek to rewrite history through violence,” the statement read.
The UMC further alleged that the attack is part of a series of violent acts orchestrated by the GMC, including the December 15th killing of 27-year-old Masoyi and two infants in Munga Dosso, the burning of a UMC worship center in Keru, Benue District, and the illegal occupation of UMC properties.
The church leadership accused GMC bishops Scott Jones and John Peña of ignoring multiple appeals for dialogue, labeling their silence as a sign of complicity.
“Their silence is not just negligence; it signals complicity,” the UMC stated.
UMC leaders also accused the GMC of using intimidation and violence to force UMC members into joining their faction instead of engaging in peaceful discussions.
Despite these challenges, the UMC urged its members to remain steadfast and not succumb to fear.
“Despite the attacks, we urge our members to remain calm and not be intimidated. Our faith is built on truth and justice, not on fear or force.”
As of the time of this report, the GMC had not issued any official response regarding the allegations.