The Unending Fights In The UMCN Folds Is Fast Becoming Reproach To Body Of Christ: This Is Our Crisis of the Year

For over two decades, the United Methodist Church of Nigeria (UMCN) has been embroiled in a seemingly unending crisis, one that continues to escalate in both intensity and violence. The turmoil within the church, often marked by factionalism and power struggles, has not only fractured the spiritual unity of the congregation but also led to tragic consequences. In 2024, this long-standing crisis remains a significant issue, with its violent nature once again claiming lives. The unrelenting battles for church control and wealth have made UMCN's internal conflict one of the most concerning crises of the year, and perhaps a reproach to the body of Christ.

The roots of the crisis date back to April 24, 2005, when a violent altercation broke out at UMCN Mayo-Gwoi. The violence led to the death of one person, the amputation of another's hand, the burning of houses, and the loss of properties worth millions of naira. Despite the passage of time, the situation has shown no signs of abating. The Church, rather than focusing on its spiritual mission, has become mired in disputes over power, wealth, and control.

In recent discussions with members of the church, many expressed growing concern that the crisis is only worsening. Some of these members, who spoke candidly to Taraba Truth and Facts newspaper, lamented the direction the church has taken over the past 20 years. Instead of focusing on spiritual growth and the heavenly goals that once united the congregation, factions within UMCN appear increasingly driven by selfish ambitions and the pursuit of financial gain.

"There seems to be no end in sight. We are still fighting after all these years," one concerned member said. "The church, which should be a source of spiritual solace and community, has become a battleground for property, foreign donations, and church money. The leaders of the various factions are too focused on their own interests—fighting for control over assets rather than working for the salvation of souls."

This battle for church resources has come at a significant cost. While leaders of the factions appear to profit from the ongoing conflict, the congregation is left to suffer. The faithful are divided, and the Church is now fragmented into several breakout groups, each pursuing its own agenda. The lack of resolution has led to growing frustration among the congregation, who feel the government has failed to intervene effectively.

"When will peace return to UMCN?" one worshipper, speaking anonymously, asked. "We have been in this crisis for more than 20 years, and yet the leaders are not working to resolve it. Instead, they are using the members as pawns in their personal battles for power, money, and property. No one benefits from this except the leaders themselves. They are feeding fat from this crisis, and the moment peace is restored, their influence will evaporate. They want to be bishops, control the wealth of the church, and continue to line their pockets under the guise of fighting for God or the church. It's truly unfortunate."

For many, the situation is beyond disappointing. UMCN's internal conflict not only tarnishes the reputation of the church but also puts the peace and security of the larger community in jeopardy. The violence, particularly in the early years of the conflict, has left a permanent scar on the reputation of the church in the eyes of many, further alienating potential followers and damaging relationships within the state.

The ongoing crisis in the United Methodist Church of Nigeria is more than just an ecclesiastical issue. It is a reflection of the larger societal problems that persist—greed, power struggles, and the prioritization of personal gain over the collective good. The spiritual mission of the church has been overshadowed by a desperate scramble for control of its wealth and influence. This crisis is not glorifying God and His Kingdom.

In 2024, as this crisis rages on, it serves as a poignant reminder of the destructive consequences of unresolved conflict, particularly within institutions meant to nurture peace and unity. Until the leaders of the church set aside their personal interests and work toward reconciliation and the restoration of spiritual focus, the crisis will continue to tarnish the reputation of UMCN and undermine its role as a beacon of faith and hope in the region.

For now, the members of the United Methodist Church of Nigeria are left to wonder: Will there ever be peace? Or will this crisis continue to define the church for years to come?