The leadership of the United Methodist Church (UMC) in Nigeria has condemned a recent attack on Bamyam Theological Seminary in Bambur community in Karim-Lamido Local Government Council of Taraba State.
In a statement issued yesterday to journalists in Jalingo, the state capital, UMC alleged that the attack was carried out by leaders and members of the breakaway faction of the church.
“The attack, which included the vandalization of UMC landmarks, signposts, and logos at the seminary chapel, is being described as an attempt by the GMC to erase the UMC identity and heritage.”
Signed by the Bishop of the church, Ande I. Emmanuel, UMC, according to the statement, “linked this incident to a broader pattern of violence and intimidation, including the illegal occupation of UMC properties by the GMC.”
Citing the December 15th killing of 27-year-old Masoyi and two infants in Munga Dosso, and the arson of a UMC worship center in Keru, Benue District, the church leaders alleged that “these acts are part of an orchestrated effort to forcefully take over UMC properties and members.”
Church officials also expressed frustration over the lack of response from GMC bishops Scott Jones and John Peña, despite previous efforts to initiate dialogue and prevent further violence, stating that “their silence is not just negligence; it signals complicity.”
Accusing the GMC of using threats and violence rather than faith and dialogue to gain followers in Nigeria, the bishop beckoned on the authorities concerned to, as a matter of urgency, wade in by calling the leadership of the GMC to order.
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“Despite the attacks, the UMC is calling on its members to remain peaceful and steadfast. Our faith is built on truth and justice, not on fear or force.”
Vowing to resist any efforts to erase its presence in Nigeria, UMC also criticized the GMC for seeking to seize UMC properties despite having already separated from the denomination, announcing that “UMC leaders characterized these actions as being driven by greed, division, and lawlessness, rather than a genuine theological divergence.”
The church, in its statement, also called on international Christian organizations and stakeholders to take a stand against the escalating violence.
“Justice must prevail. 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.”
At the time of filing this report, no statement had been made public by the leadership of the GMC concerning the upheaval, which The Guardian learned led to the destruction of property and inflicted various degrees of injuries on some worshippers.
