Monrovia, Liberia – The President of the West Africa Central Conference College of Bishops, Samuel J. Quire Jr, has strongly condemned a recent violent attack on a United Methodist Church in Nigeria. The attack resulted in the tragic loss of one life and left four others wounded, causing deep sorrow and grave concern within the church community.
Bishop Quire expressed his dismay over the reports of the deadly ambush on members of the United Methodist Church in Zailana Dorofai District, Nigeria. The assailants, identified as members of the breakaway Global Methodist Church (GMC), forcibly entered church property and launched a violent attack. Despite facing resistance from United Methodist members in the area, the attackers managed to cause significant harm.
The brutal incident led to the killing of Alhaji B. Sambo, a devoted member of the church, as well as the critical injury of Mrs. Victoria Bawa Michael and others. In response to this tragedy, Bishop Quire emphasized the need for peace, justice, and reconciliation within the church community, denouncing the use of violence as a means of conflict resolution.
As President of the West Africa Central Conference College of Bishops, Bishop Quire called on all followers of Jesus Christ to uphold the values of peace and non-violence, urging the global Methodist community to support the church in Nigeria during this challenging time. He also appealed to the Nigerian government and the international community to investigate the attack and ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
In the face of such adversity, Bishop Quire highlighted the importance of responding to tragedy with peace and love, rather than with further violence. He encouraged United Methodists in Nigeria to remain steadfast as symbols of hope and unity, drawing strength from their faith in times of distress.
In conclusion, Bishop Quire invoked the message from Paul’s Epistle to the Romans, emphasizing the need to overcome evil with good and to continue serving as instruments of peace and healing in a world plagued by conflict. As the church mourns the loss of life and supports the injured, the call for unity, justice, and compassion remains at the forefront of their mission.