We are deeply grieved to learn from Bishop Scott Jones, who is currently in Nigeria, that violence has once again erupted. We recognize that conflicting reports are circulating and share the following account as reported by Bishop Jones, who was present.
On February 17, during the opening worship service at Banyam Theological Seminary, a group of individuals supportive of the United Methodist Church disrupted the gathering. In an effort to maintain peace, the conference was relocated. Today, these same individuals, expecting to find our bishops and conference members gathered, returned to Banyam Seminary armed, engaging in destruction of property and physical attacks on members of the Global Methodist Church.
We give thanks to God that, while injuries were sustained, there was no loss of life. Bishop John Pena Auta was able to seek assistance from the Nigerian army, which intervened to disperse the attackers.
Bishop Jones has assured us that he, Bishop Auta, and those traveling with them are unharmed and safe.
As followers of Jesus Christ, we unequivocally condemn all acts of violence and reiterate that such actions have no place within the Body of Christ. We call upon the leadership of the United Methodist Church to publicly denounce these attacks and urge all parties to seek peace and reconciliation.
We ask all people of faith to join us in prayer for God’s protection, provision, and peace for our brothers and sisters in Nigeria.
Assembly of Bishops, Global Methodist Church
This statement is republished from the Global Methodist Church's official Facebook page.