United Methodist Church in Nigeria Disowns Group Over Alleged Heresy

From Rabilu Abubakar, Gombe

Efforts to reconcile the United Methodist Church in Nigeria with factional groups over alleged heresy have failed due to procedural lapses.

Speaking to the press, Mr. Yohana Wesley, Resident Bishop of the Nigeria UMC in Gondum village of Shongom LGA, Gombe State, during the Northern and Central Nigeria Annual Conferences, said the council of Bishops has faced ongoing disputes.

Wesley noted that the United States council of Bishops sent Bishop John Schol to reconcile the groups. However, some factions operating parallel structures against the UMC leadership were disowned by the church. “They are not recognized as members and have no function as far as UMCN is concerned,” he said.

The attempt by Bishop John Schol to bring these factions back was rejected by the district superintendent, citing procedural adherence to their book of discipline. The factions have been separate from the church for over three years.

Regarding same-sex marriage, Bishop Wesley reiterated the church’s stance, condemning the act as unholy. Bishop Schol emphasized his visit aimed to foster peace and unity for the progress of the gospel of Jesus Christ. He acknowledged that decisions on gay marriage would be region-specific without imposition.

Mr. Chipau Kiliyobas, Director of Connectional Ministry of Northern Nigeria UMC, explained that factions arose due to disagreements with Bishop Yohana’s administration and support for regionalization, seen as a guise for LGBT acceptance. The factions have united to oppose non-supportive pastors.

The issue of LGBT has been contentious since 1972, peaking with the UMC General Conference in America voting to lift the ban on LGBT, adopting a regionalization plan.

Our correspondent observed a large crowd with placards stating, “We say No to LGBT, John Schol we reject your ideas, One Bible, one God no to regionalization.”