Global Methodist Church appeals Nigerian court ruling in favor of UMC in registration dispute
The theologically conservative Global Methodist Church (GMC) is appealing a ruling from a Nigerian court in a legal battle over the registration and resources of the United Methodist Church (UMC).
GMC Bishop John Pena Auta announced at a press conference on Tuesday at McBride Global Methodist Church in Jalingo, that his denomination filed an appeal with the Court of Appeal in Nigeria, Abuja Judicial Division, and also requested an injunction to block the lower court ruling.
“We read the judgment of the Court and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the rule of law and due process,” he stated. “As a law-abiding body, we respect the judicial process and remain confident in the justice system.”
Auta added that the GMC was “fully within its legal rights to continue its activities and use of its properties” and urged church members to “remain calm, prayerful, and steadfast during this period.”
“We strongly advise all members and supporters to remain law-abiding and refrain from any form of confrontation or actions that may disrupt public peace or bring the name of the Church into disrepute,” the bishop added.
“The leadership is committed to pursuing all lawful means to seek redress and justice. We urge everyone to stay peaceful, focused, and trusting in God as we navigate this process.”
For decades, the UMC has been embroiled in debate over whether to amend its Book of Discipline to allow the blessing of same-sex marriage and the ordination of noncelibate homosexuals.
Although efforts to remove the Book of Discipline language at the churchwide General Conference had often failed, many theological liberals refused to follow or enforce the rules, prompting thousands of mostly theologically conservative congregations to leave the denomination by 2023.
At the 2024 UMC General Conference, delegates voted to remove the language, prompting many churches and UMC leaders in Africa to consider disaffiliation.
In Nigeria, not only are same-sex marriage and homosexuality illegal, but the national government also prohibits its citizens from being active in LGBT advocacy organizations.
In July 2024, Nigerian Bishop John Wesley Yohanna sent a statement to state officials saying that, at a specially called session, the regional body voted to leave the UMC and join the GMC. But a group of Nigerian UMC leaders released a statement disputing his claims, arguing that only Yohanna and approximately 10% of the regional body had opted to leave the UMC.
Disputes over which Methodist denomination rightfully owns property and resources in the West African nation have led to periodic violence. For example, members of both denominations clashed at Banyam Theological Seminary in February of last year.
Late last month, High Court Justice Obiora Egwuatu issued an order directing the Corporate Affairs Commission to reverse a decision renaming the United Methodist Church in Nigeria as the Global Methodist Church in Nigeria.
Additionally, Egwuatu ordered Zenith Bank Plc to grant the UMC control of denominational bank accounts and said that members of the denomination must follow its rules regarding association and disaffiliation, which the court could not overrule.
UMC Nigeria Episcopal Area Bishop Ande Emmanuel stated in response to the decision, calling for reconciliation between the UMC and the GMC in the country.
“This is not a moment of celebration, but a moment for healing. It is time to mend what has been broken between The United Methodist Church in Nigeria and the Global Methodist Church in Nigeria,” Emmanuel stated, as quoted by UM News.
“We extend a hand of fellowship to our brothers and sisters — if you wish to return, you are welcome. And if you choose to continue your journey with GMCN, we remain open to dialogue, so we can understand your needs and support you in peace and unity.”
