The Global Methodist Church (GMC) Nigeria has issued a formal rebuttal to allegations made by a member of the United Methodist Church, (UMC), Nigeria, in a viral Facebook video, describing the claims as false, misleading, defamatory, and inflammatory.

In a press statement released yeaterday in Jalingo, Taraba state, the church said the member, whom it identified as a non-member of the Global Methodist Church, made several inaccurate claims concerning the church’s episcopal nomination process, leadership, governance, and internal affairs.

Signed by the church media team, the church rejected allegations that episcopal offices are allocated through regional quotas, that certain candidates receive preferential treatment, or that bishops are appointed through political influence or “godfatherism.”

It also denied claims that the Assembly of Bishops had expressed dissatisfaction with Presiding Bishop John Pena, or that there is any conflict between Bishop John Pena and Emeritus Bishop John Wesley.

The church maintained that its episcopal election process is governed by the Holy Scriptures, its constitutional procedures, and prayerful discernment under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It stated that delegates elect bishops through established constitutional processes rather than political negotiations or regional considerations.

The GMC Nigeria also dismissed allegations that Africans, including Nigerians, are excluded from leadership because of racial discrimination. It said Africans occupy significant leadership positions within the global church and contribute to its governance, administration, mission, and worldwide ministry.

Responding to claims that the church intends to malign the Nigerian judiciary, fabricate allegations against the United Methodist Church, or misrepresent official communications, the statement described such assertions as entirely false, defamatory, and irresponsible.

The church further expressed concern over what it described as Mr. Waziri’s repeated public comments on the affairs of a denomination to which he does not belong, urging that public commentary be based on verified facts rather than speculation or misinformation.

The statement called on Mr. Waziri to withdraw the allegations, issue a public apology, and refrain from making further defamatory statements concerning the church, its leadership, and its constitutional processes.

It also warned that continued publication of what it described as false and defamatory statements against the Global Methodist Church, its officers, or members could result in institutional and legal action.

The church advised members and the public to disregard the claims made in the viral video, insisting that they do not reflect the doctrine, governance, or official position of the Global Methodist Church.

The statement concluded by reaffirming the church’s commitment to the authority of Holy Scripture, biblical holiness, faithful discipleship, and the advancement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, stating that it would not be distracted from its mission by what it described as campaigns of misinformation.