By Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory has dismissed a Stay Of Execution application before it by the Global Methodist Church of Nigeria (GMCN).
Bishop Ande Emmanuel of the United Methodist Church in Nigeria, and the Mission Districts Of Cameroon and Senegal, has held a press conference following the judgement that dismissed the Stay Of Execution application by the GMCN.
He reiterated, that the UMCN is open to dialogue with the GMCN on issues of contention, adding that the UMCN is also open to welcome members that wish to return, as well as support those that wish to leave for the GMCN.
He called for peace, reconciliation, and dialogue, emphasized the need for unity and peaceful coexistence among brethren.
According to him, the court today denied the application filed by the Global Methodist Church Nigeria (GMCN) seeking a “stay of execution.” The court maintained that it could not reward illegality.
“Federal High Court Sitting in Abuja Denied the GMCN Application for a Stay off Execution. The Court Said She Can’t Reward Illegality.
“This ruling represents another important affirmation of the judgment previously delivered by the Court concerning the identity, trusteeship and lawful continuity of the United Methodist Church in Nigeria. It also reinforces confidence in the independence of the judiciary, the rule of law and the constitutional processes available to all parties within a democratic society.
“We receive this outcome with humility, gratitude to God and deep respect for the judicial process. We wish to state clearly that this is not a moment for triumphalism, provocation or hostility toward anyone. Rather, it is a moment for sober reflection, healing, reconciliation and renewed commitment to the mission of Jesus Christ.
“I want to use this medium to call on our brethren to give peace a chance. The United Methodist Church will always welcome you; this is your church. But if you insist on leaving, let us open a table of dialogue to discuss how you can leave peacefully.
“Members should refrain from inflammatory statements,intimidation, retaliation, and actions capable of disrupting peace , and damaging Christian witness”.
“Don’t allow legal disagreements to destroy relationships, communities or the spiritual mission entrusted to the church”.
The Bishop further urged members of the church to remain calm, prayerful, and committed to the mission of Christ, stressing that peace and reconciliation remain the only path toward lasting unity and progress in the body of Christ
The judgement is the second in favour of the UMCN, as the GMCN a breakaway faction of the church seeks to deregister the UMCN in Nigeria, and claim it’s properties and assets.
The GMCN had refused to comply with the first judgement of the court, on the ground that it would apply a Stay of Execution, and also appeal the judgement.
He reassured that the UMCN affirms respect for the constitutional rights of all parties in the ongoing legal process, emphasizing that members must demonstrate by conduct, that the church belongs to Christ.
He appreciated members for ensuring throughout the challenging season, which he said that many of the members, clergy and congregations have endured uncertainty, emotional pain, misinformation and institutional tension.
“Yet, through prayers, patience and steadfast faith, the people of the Church remained committed to peace, lawful engagement and Christian witness. Today, we acknowledge and appreciate their courage and resilience.
“On behalf of the Nigeria Episcopal Area, I express profound appreciation to,
our clergy and laity across all Annual Conferences,
our district superintendents and conference leaders,
our legal team for their diligence and professionalism,
our ecumenical and international partners,
and all friends of the Church around the world who stood with us in prayer and solidarity.
“We particularly thank members of the global Methodist family and all people of goodwill who consistently encouraged peaceful resolution and respect for lawful institutions – he said.