Three Dead in Violent Clash Between Methodist Church Factions in Taraba

A violent clash between factions of the United Methodist Church in Nigeria (UMCN) and the Global Methodist Church (GMC) has left three people dead in Taraba State. The incident occurred on Sunday in Munga Dasso village, located in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area, following tensions over the reopening of a sealed church building for worship.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Usman, confirmed the deaths and said six suspects have been arrested in connection with the violence. He also stated that security personnel have been deployed to the area to prevent further clashes.

The conflict reportedly stems from a long-standing leadership dispute between the UMCN and GMC, with the latter emerging as a breakaway faction. To contain tensions, the state government had previously sealed several church properties in the region. However, Sunday’s decision to unseal one of the buildings appears to have reignited hostilities.

Some worshippers criticized the government for failing to resolve the crisis, expressing concern that the ongoing conflict is threatening peace and stability in the state.