The United Methodist Church Nigeria (UMCN) recently marked its 100th anniversary, but the milestone celebration has been overshadowed by a series of crises, now exacerbated by the contentious issue of same-sex marriage. For decades, the church has struggled with internal conflicts fueled by ethnic tensions and leadership disputes. Recently, the debate over same-sex marriage has fractured the church, leading to the resignation of its presiding bishop and a schism within its congregation.
Bishop John Wesley Yohanna, who had been leading the UMCN, resigned ahead of his planned retirement at the end of September. Citing the church's decision to embrace same-sex marriage, he joined the Global Methodist Church, an international faction formed after the May 2024 General Conference in Charlotte, United States, where the church removed language condemning homosexuality. This decision has split the congregation and left it without a clear leader.
The Controversial Decision
At the heart of the dispute is the May General Conference's resolution to "remove restrictive language" related to LGBTQ+ issues and to permit the ordination of openly homosexual clergy. The conference also sanctioned same-sex marriages, marking a sharp break from the church’s traditional teachings.
This move did not sit well with Yohanna, who said that under his leadership, the UMCN had consistently opposed such changes. "When I became a bishop, there was nothing like homosexuality. Marriage has always been between a man and a woman," Yohanna explained. He emphasized that the church had long maintained that, if homosexuality were ever legalized, members could no longer remain in the denomination.
Faced with the church’s new stance, Yohanna resigned on July 29, 2024, and aligned with the Global Methodist Church, which retains a traditional view of marriage. "For us, the laws of Nigeria take precedence over any other constitution of the church," he said, stressing that remaining in the UMCN could violate Nigerian law, which prohibits same-sex marriage.
Allegations of Political Intrigue
Yohanna’s resignation came amid accusations of his involvement in the deportation of two foreign bishops, Bishop John Scholl from the U.S. and Bishop Eben Nhiwatiwa from Zimbabwe, who were allegedly in Nigeria to oversee the election of his successor. Yohanna denied any role in their deportation, maintaining that he had no contact with immigration authorities and that any issues related to their presence were out of his hands.
Opposition from Church Leaders, Rev Doppah version
Reverend Dr. Philip Micah Doppah, Director of Connectional Ministry for the United Methodist Church’s Southern Conference, criticized Yohanna’s leadership, revealing that for 12 years, many within the church had not recognized his authority. Doppah pointed to a history of internal strife that preceded the recent LGBTQ+ controversy, highlighting deep-rooted ethnic and political conflicts within the church.
He accused Yohanna of seizing church properties after his resignation and of joining the Global Methodist Church without following the correct procedure. "If John Wesley went to the Global Methodist Church, nobody would say no to it," Doppah said, noting that those who left properly could receive financial incentives from the UMC.
Rev Ande Ikimun Version of the crisis
In an exclusive interview with TarabaNews correspondent, Rev. Ande Ikimun Emmanuel, who is the Secretary of the Southern Nigeria Annual Conference shared his perspective on the recent developments within the United Methodist Church of Nigeria (UMCN). He highlighted the significant strides made by the church towards resolving its internal challenges and strengthening its presence in Nigeria.
Rev. Emmanuel expressed appreciation to God almighty for the success of the special sessions held across the UMCN's four annual conferences from August 23-26. He noted that the sessions marked a crucial step towards electing a new bishop in December at the West Africa Central Conference in Côte d'Ivoire.
Concerning the recent news making the rounds in the media, Rev. Ande Ikimun Emmanuel who is an icon in the pursuance of the continuation of the church United Methodist Church in Nigeria provided clarity on the ongoing crisis within the United Methodist Church of Nigeria (UMCN). He addressed key issues, debunking rumors and misinformation.
Regarding Bishop Eben Nhiwatiwa's alleged immigration issues, Rev. Emmanuel explained that the story was exaggerated. Bishop Nhiwatiwa had obtained necessary documents from the Nigerian Consulate in Harare and met with the Nigerian Ambassador in Zimbabwe. The Immigration authorities' apology to the UMCN and Bishop Nhiwatiwa confirms their initial actions were in error.
Rev. Emmanuel also refuted allegations of Bishop Nhiwatiwa supporting same-sex marriage, describing him as a straight, happily married man with children and grandchildren. He emphasized that the UMCN's regionalization policy allows each region to practice scripture according to their local context, upholding traditional values and laws that reject same-sex conjugality.
Furthermore, Rev. Emmanuel accused Bishop Yohanna John Wesley of the breakaway
Global Methodist Church (GMC) of being power-drunk, seeking to perpetuate his position in the breakaway GMC. He alleged that the breakaway endeavor is a ploy by individuals seeking personal gain, rather than a genuine concern for the church's doctrine or policies.
Rev. Emmanuel emphasized the need to separate fact from fiction, recognizing the true intentions and actions of individuals involved. He reaffirmed the UMCN's commitment to its doctrine and policies, rejecting attempts to perpetuate personal interests or unethical practices.
This interview provides a clearer understanding of the UMCN crisis, dispelling misinformation and highlighting the true state of matters.
Rev. Emmanuel expressed optimism about the future of the church, citing the unanimous vote by delegates to remain in The United Methodist Church and adopt the Path Forward Covenant.
He also highlighted the approval of the board of trustees to pursue legal means to secure church properties and assets.
Regarding the newly assigned bishops, Rev. Emmanuel commended their role in reorganizing the church and moving the mission forward. He shared Bishop Schol's emphasis on the church's commitment to serving communities and addressing fears and misinformation during times of unrest.
Looking ahead, Rev. Emmanuel mentioned the planned regular annual conference sessions for November, which are expected to include over 25 ordinations, new budgets, and an updated report on the Path Forward Covenant. He also highlighted the efforts to ensure retired clergy and clergy widows/widowers receive their pension on time.
Nigeria Immigration version
According to a press release by the Nigeria Immigration service Press release A Zimbabwean bishop,Mr .Eben k.Nhiwatawi was apprehended by the Nigeria immigration service, in yola the capital city of Adamawa state, on 24th August 2024.
According to then The bishop arrived in the country on 21st August, 2024,with a tourist visa (F5A) meant solely for tourist purpose. however,he was discovered to be participating in methodist church leadership election process which is in clear violation with the terms and privileges associated with the tourist visa in the Nigeria visa provided in the Nigeria visa policy 2024
They said With this violation the comptroller General, Nigeria immigration service with the approval of the ministry has ordered that he should be repatriated from the country immediately. Also the service encouraged each and everyone to be lawful of all foreign Direct investment and individual engaging in business and social activities as a key facilitators of economic growth and development. Violation of the country’s laws would not be tolerated.
The press statement added that the immigration service remains committed to service of preserving the country’s National security and they have vowed to continue high monitoring activities of foreigners.
Calls for Peace Amid Ongoing Crisis
The crisis has drawn in political authorities, with the Taraba State Government stepping in to place a temporary ban on worship at all UMCN and GMC churches in a bid to prevent violence. This is not the first time the government has intervened in church affairs, as previous attempts to mediate conflicts have been unsuccessful.
The church’s internal troubles have not only split congregations but also drawn in international actors, including the church’s leadership in the United States, which provides significant financial support to its Nigerian counterpart. This, some argue, has deepened divisions, as different factions within the church attempt to leverage external influence to their advantage.
Conclusion
As the United Methodist Church in Nigeria grapples with these overlapping challenges—ranging from LGBTQ+ issues to leadership struggles and ethnic divisions—many are left wondering what the future holds for a denomination that has played a significant role in the region for over a century. Bishop Yohanna, for his part, continues to call for calm and hopes that peace will return to the church despite the turbulence. Whether that peace will come soon remains an open question, as the congregation remains deeply divided.
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