United Methodist Church disowns factional body for recognising LGBTQ rights; stages protest in Gombe

Hundreds of members of the United Methodist Church, UMC, in Gombe State protested against a factional group accused of promoting LGBTQ rights and regionalisation.

Carrying placards rejecting LGBTQ and regionalisation, the protesters emphasised their commitment to a unified church and their opposition to what they deem as “unholy acts.”

The protest took place during the Northern and Central Nigeria Annual Conferences in Gondum village, Shongom local government area of the state.

According to Yohana Wesley, Resident Bishop of the Nigeria UMC, the factional group’s refusal to adhere to established procedures led to the decision to disown them.

Chipau Kiliyobas, Director of Connectional Ministry of Northern Nigeria UMC Annual Conference, noted that the disagreement over regionalisation and LGBTQ issues was the root of the contention between the two groups. 

He emphasised that the traditional and majority group in the church deem LGBTQ acts as unholy.

While Bishop John Schol, representing the Council of Bishops from the United States, attempted to reconcile the factions and unify all church members, his remarks were met with resistance from the protesters.

Mr Schol clarified that regional decisions on same-sex marriage would be respected, with no imposition from the global church, but the protesters remained steadfast in their opposition to LGBTQ recognition.