The serenity of a Sunday morning in Zailana Dorofai District, Nigeria, was shattered by a violent clash between members of the United Methodist Church (UMC) and the breakaway Global Methodist Church (GMC). This incident, which resulted in the death of one UMC member and injuries to four others, has sent shockwaves throughout the global Methodist community, prompting strong condemnation from religious leaders and calls for peace and justice. The attack, described as unprovoked by the UMC Nigeria Episcopal Area, underscores the deep divisions and tensions that have arisen within the Methodist denomination in recent years, culminating in the formation of the GMC. The incident highlights the fragility of inter-denominational relations and the urgent need for dialogue and reconciliation.
Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr., President of the West Africa Central Conference College of Bishops and Resident Bishop of the Liberia Annual Conference of the UMC, expressed profound sadness and grave concern over the attack. He unequivocally condemned the use of violence as a means of resolving conflict, emphasizing that such actions only perpetuate harm, suffering, and division. Bishop Quire called upon the GMC to respect the autonomy of the UMC in Nigeria and elsewhere, allowing them to carry out their religious activities freely under the laws of their respective states. He stressed the importance of peace, justice, and reconciliation as core values for all followers of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that resorting to violence to settle ecclesiastical or property disputes is antithetical to Christian teachings.
The tragic loss of Alhaji B. Sambo, a devoted husband and father of three, has left a void in his family and the church community. Mrs. Victoria Bawa Michael, a widow of a late pastor, suffered critical injuries in the attack, along with other faithful UMC members: Gideon Hamza, Bolyo Bitrus, and Justice Mani. Bishop Quire extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and injured on behalf of the West Africa Central Conference College of Bishops, expressing solidarity with the UMC in Nigeria and offering prayers for comfort, healing, and justice during this difficult time.
The incident has sparked a widespread call for accountability and justice. Bishop Quire urged the Nigerian government, the international community, the global UMC, and all peace-loving institutions to thoroughly investigate the attack, condemn the violence, and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. He appealed to UMC members in Nigeria to respond to this tragedy with peace and restraint, refraining from retaliation and upholding their commitment to being beacons of hope and love amidst the turmoil. The plea for peaceful resolution underscores the importance of maintaining Christian values even in the face of adversity. The WACC’s continued prayers for Bishop Ande I. Emmanuel, his family, and the entire church community reflect the collective desire for healing and reconciliation within the Nigerian Methodist community.
The incident in Zailana Dorofai District serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges facing religious communities around the world. The escalating tensions and violence surrounding denominational splits necessitate a renewed commitment to interfaith dialogue, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence. The call for peace and reconciliation echoes throughout the Christian community, urging all followers of Christ to embody the values of love, forgiveness, and understanding.
Quoting Romans 12:21, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good,” Bishop Quire urged the UMC to remain instruments of peace and agents of healing in a world marred by conflict and violence. His call to action serves as a poignant reminder that the true strength of faith lies in responding to adversity with love and compassion, not with further violence. The tragic events in Nigeria underscore the need for all religious communities to prioritize peace, justice, and reconciliation, ensuring that the pursuit of faith is always guided by the principles of love and understanding. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of peace and the importance of upholding Christian values in the face of adversity.
