Tensions flared in Taraba State as police arrested two pastors and several worshippers of the United Methodist Church of Nigeria/Global Mission Church of Nigeria (UMCN/GMCN) for allegedly defying a government ban on their religious activities.
Advertisement
According to a report by Zagazola Makama, the arrests occurred around 4:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 8, in Kasuwan Bera, Kofai Ward, Ardo-Kola Local Government Area. Police acted on credible intelligence indicating that members of the banned denomination were conducting a church service in defiance of an executive order.
The Taraba State Government had previously issued a directive closing all UMCN/GMCN premises due to unresolved leadership disputes and rising security concerns within the factionalized church.
A police source stated:
“Upon arrival, officers found GMCN members actively engaged in a service. Despite warnings, they continued, prompting their arrest.”
The situation escalated when Rev. Beziel Yayuba Yoila and another unidentified pastor arrived at the scene and allegedly urged congregants to resist the police.
Latest News
“They began throwing stones at the officers,” the source added. “Reinforcements were called in from the Department of Operations (DOPS), and both pastors were arrested.”
During the operation, officers recovered several items from Rev. Beziel’s vehicle, including a cutlass, a tear gas canister, and a rearing stick. These items are now part of the ongoing investigation.
All suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Jalingo for discreet interrogation and further legal proceedings.
The government had earlier stressed that the temporary shutdown was necessary to prevent violent clashes and ensure public safety. Local observers say the crisis stems from a prolonged leadership tussle that has splintered the denomination.
Advertisement
The Taraba State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to enforcing the executive order and called on all factions to remain law-abiding while the matter is being resolved legally.
This incident is the latest in a series of religious conflicts across Nigeria, where internal leadership crises have occasionally led to security threats. Human rights advocates are urging the state to seek mediation while upholding constitutional protections for freedom of worship—within lawful boundaries.
#TarabaNews #PastorsArrested #UMCNGMCN #ChurchBan #ReligiousCrisis #PoliceRaid #NigeriaReligion #ExecutiveOrder
Tags:
Church Leadership Crisis
Metro
National Security
Nigerian crime news
Police Action
Religious Conflict
Taraba State News