The United Methodist Church (UMC) in Nigeria has issued a strong call for its members to engage peacefully and responsibly in the nation's democratic process as the country looks ahead to the 2027 general elections. This directive came from the Joint Session of the Five Annual Conferences of the UMC Nigeria Episcopal Area, held in Jalingo, Taraba State.
A Call for Credible Elections and Moral Governance
In a communiqué released after the session and signed by Rev. Abainitus A. Hamman (Chairman) and Rev. Salisu Waziri (Secretary), the church outlined its stance. While maintaining a strictly non-partisan position, the conference emphasized the critical need for voter education and the outright rejection of any form of electoral malpractice. It also called for sustained prayers to ensure the credibility of the upcoming polls.
The church leadership did not spare political office holders, urging them to prioritize justice, transparency, and accountability in their governance. The communiqué reaffirmed the church's commitment to biblical teachings, national peace, and the model of responsible citizenship for all its members.
Reaffirming Doctrine and Confronting National Crises
The conference expressed unwavering support for the stance of African bishops within the global UMC on matters of human sexuality, marriage, and family life. It described marriage as a sacred covenant exclusively between one man and one woman, a position it stated is both biblically grounded and culturally relevant in the African context. The document commended African church leaders for providing moral clarity and protecting the unity of the church across the continent.
Shifting focus to Nigeria's security challenges, the conferences raised serious concerns over the persistent threats of terrorism, banditry, and criminal violence, particularly highlighting attacks that target Christian communities. They called on government authorities to take more decisive action to protect lives and property, noting the severe humanitarian consequences of the ongoing violence.
The church appealed to the global Christian community to continue offering prayers and tangible support to victims and displaced families. It emphasized the importance of unity during trials, urging all churches and denominations to resist division and strengthen cooperation.
A Path Forward: Reconciliation, Prophetic Voice, and Growth
In a significant and concrete step toward healing internal divisions, church leaders signed a Deed of Reconciliation. This landmark document aims to formally unite the Nigeria Episcopal Area of the UMC, the Southern Conference, and the four Annual Conferences: Southern Nigeria, Central Nigeria, Northeast Nigeria, and Northern Nigeria.
The communiqué reaffirmed the church's prophetic duty to speak against corruption, injustice, and moral decline in society. It encouraged members to exemplify Christ-like character in their communities and to actively participate in development initiatives that promote justice.
Finally, the conferences called for a renewed commitment to evangelism and discipleship. They stressed the need to strengthen ministries focused on youth and children, expand Bible study groups, and support community-based development projects to ensure the church's continued growth and relevance.
The document was endorsed by conference secretaries and the presiding bishops, including Bishops Ande I. Emmanuel, Samuel J. Quire, and James Boye Caulker.
