The Taraba State Police Command has arrested two pastors and several members of the United Methodist Church of Nigeria/Global Mission Church of Nigeria (UMCN/GMCN) for defying a state government order banning their religious activities.
The arrest, which happened around 4:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 8, took place in Kasuwan Bera, a community in Kofai Ward of Ardo-Kola Local Government Area. According to police sources, the group was holding a church service despite a government directive ordering the temporary closure of all UMCN/GMCN branches across the state.
The ban was issued due to ongoing leadership struggles within the denomination and rising security concerns linked to the internal crisis.
According to the Public Relations Officer of the Taraba Police Command, a team led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Sunkani Division stormed the church premises following credible intelligence that members of the banned church were meeting in defiance of the order.
“Officers met some GMCN members holding a service. Despite repeated warnings to disperse, they refused. That led to their arrest,” the police spokesperson said.
The situation became tense when Rev. Beziel Yayuba Yoila and another pastor reportedly arrived at the scene and allegedly encouraged the worshippers to resist the police.
According to the police, the crowd became violent and began throwing stones at officers. The DPO then called for reinforcements from the Department of Operations (DOPS), who arrived quickly and arrested the two pastors.
During a search of Rev. Beziel’s vehicle, police found a cutlass, a canister of Police Body Guard Tear Gas, and a rearing stick. These items have been taken into custody as part of ongoing investigations.
All the suspects were transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Jalingo for further questioning.
The police say they are treating the case seriously, especially given the potential security risks linked to the church’s leadership crisis.
The Taraba State Government had earlier issued an executive order shutting down all UMCN/GMCN places of worship across the state. This decision followed a prolonged leadership dispute within the denomination that had led to rising tensions and security concerns in several communities.
The state government said the closure was necessary to prevent violence and ensure public safety while the church worked to resolve its internal conflict.
Church leaders have been battling over control and representation, leading to the creation of factions within the denomination. Some communities have reportedly witnessed clashes between rival groups of worshippers, prompting state intervention.
While some members of the church have complied with the government’s directive, others have continued to hold secret gatherings, increasing fears of further conflict.
The police have called on religious groups in the state to respect government directives aimed at maintaining peace and order.
As of press time, no official statement had been issued by the church leadership regarding the arrests. However, local sources say tension remains high in the area as security agents continue to monitor the situation.
Police have assured residents that they will maintain law and order and that anyone found violating the executive order will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
