This paper advances a scan of interfaith concept as an enduring harmony among the divergent ethnic groups in Nigeria. In doing this, the paper takes cognizance the problem of ethnic agitations and conflicts in Nigeria, the causes of ethnic and religious crisis, an understanding of interfaith concept and its actors, and advances arguments for the fact that the inadequacies of interfaith concept notwithstanding, it is an enduring philosophy that can be activated by Nigeria for the enhancement of stable, secured and peaceful relations among the diverse ethnic nationalities.
This paper advances a philosophy of ethnic and religious tolerance in view of the fact that despite the diversity in tribes and faith, we share the same humanity and that it is only on the basis of this tolerance and the mutual respect for one another’s faith that the peace and unity that is both necessary and imperative for national development and nation building can be attained.
The history of ethnicity and ethnic conflicts in Nigeria are also traced back to the colonial transgressions that forced the ethnic groups of the northern and southern provinces to become an entity called Nigeria in 1914. This generated hatred and conflict among different ethnic groups. The task of addressing this seed of conflict planted by the British has been a complex one. These conflicts, as it were and as it is, possessed within themselves the tendency of hampering the peace and collective existence of Nigeria if not checked and curtail.
This notwithstanding, a stable, secured, and peaceful relations among the diverse and heterogeneous ethnic groups in Nigeria for sustainable development is timely and imperative. In such a time, in the history of the nation as this, when the nation is confronted and affronted with numerous challenges of national development that have to a large extent threatened our collective existence, the need to de-emphasis those things the divides us and to emphasize those things that units becomes more glaring and crystal clear. This thinking is based on the fact that without a peaceful relation between the diverse ethnic groups in Nigeria, there can be no secured and stable Nigeria and without a stable and secured Nigeria, the much-needed development and the change that have been clamoured for by Nigerians will amount to a mirage.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. The Problem of Ethnic Agitations and Ethnic Cleansing in Nigeria
3. Causes of Ethno-Religious Conflicts in Nigeria
4. Understanding Interfaith Concept and its Actors in Nigeria
5. Enhancement of a Philosophy of Human Integration in Nigeria.
6. Conclusion
Research Objectives and Topics
This paper examines the underlying causes of persistent ethno-religious conflicts in Nigeria and proposes a "philosophy of human integration" based on interfaith dialogue and mutual tolerance to foster national stability and peace.
- Historical context of ethnic and religious tensions in Nigeria
- Analysis of factors contributing to communal violence, including corruption and political instability
- The role and definition of interfaith dialogue in resolving societal divisions
- Promotion of shared humanity as a foundation for peaceful coexistence
- Critique of government responses to security challenges and ethnic conflicts
Excerpt from the Book
The Problem of Ethnic Agitations and Ethnic Cleansing in Nigeria
A cursory look as the Nigerian existential situation reveals the problem of ethnic agitations. In Nigeria today virtually all the various ethnic groups talk about marginalization and domination, hence all the ethnic groups are affected one way or the other by the national question. Momoh illustrates this thus:
For the Niger-Delta and oil producing minority it is exploitation and environmental degradation; for the Igbo it is marginalization; for the Hausa Fulani, it is uneven development; for the minorities of the North, particularly the Middle Belt it is one of internal colonialism; for the Yoruba it is power exclusion. Hence everybody is demanding empowerment on the basis of one assumption – xenophobia.
The perceived marginalization constitutes the building blocks for the numerous crisis and upheavals in the history of the Nigerian state. Discourse on the subject matter of conflict (ethnic or religious), with particular reference to Nigeria have attained philosophical maturity and hence, there has been a massive policy attention in this regard. This is partly due to the repeated instances of collective violence: while analysts differ in their assessment, most agree that the early 1980s and the transition to democracy in 1999 both witnessed an upsurge in communal and ethnic conflicts and violence in Nigeria.
Chapter Summaries
Introduction: Provides the historical background of the Nigerian state and introduces the necessity of interfaith concepts to combat ethnic and religious divisions.
The Problem of Ethnic Agitations and Ethnic Cleansing in Nigeria: Examines the roots of marginalization and ethnic tensions, highlighting how various groups feel dominated and excluded from national development.
Causes of Ethno-Religious Conflicts in Nigeria: Identifies corruption, unemployment, and the failure of political elites as primary catalysts for the ongoing cycles of communal violence.
Understanding Interfaith Concept and its Actors in Nigeria: Explores the definition of interfaith dialogue and emphasizes its potential to create a platform for mutual respect between Muslims and Christians.
Enhancement of a Philosophy of Human Integration in Nigeria.: Argues for adopting the "dialogue of life" as a cultural philosophy to promote social cohesion and shared human values.
Conclusion: Summarizes the need for structural change, social justice, and a move toward unity to secure the future of the Nigerian nation.
Keywords
Nigeria, Ethno-religious conflicts, Interfaith dialogue, Ethnicity, Corruption, National integration, Human integration, Social justice, Political instability, Peace building, Religious tolerance, Marginalization, Collective violence, Coexistence, Dialogue of life
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this work?
The work explores the recurring ethno-religious conflicts in Nigeria and seeks to find an enduring philosophical and practical framework for national peace.
What are the central themes discussed in the paper?
Key themes include historical ethnic tensions, the impact of corruption on social cohesion, the role of religion in conflict and peace, and the necessity of national integration.
What is the main research question or goal?
The goal is to determine how an interfaith "philosophy of human integration" can be activated to replace conflict with stable, secured, and peaceful relations among diverse ethnic groups.
Which methodology is utilized by the author?
The author employs a philosophical and analytical review of historical, sociological, and religious records to argue for a culture of tolerance and interfaith dialogue.
What topics are covered in the main body of the text?
The text analyzes the origins of ethnic agitation, the socio-economic causes of violence, the definition of interfaith dialogue, and the practical application of the "dialogue of life" in everyday interactions.
How are the keywords characterized in this study?
The study uses terms related to political and religious philosophy, conflict resolution, and the specific socio-political context of the Nigerian state.
How does the author view the role of the Nigerian government?
The author is critical of the government, citing failures in governance, a lack of political will to punish perpetrators of violence, and the role of corruption in fueling instability.
What is meant by the "dialogue of life"?
It refers to a practical, day-to-day form of coexistence where individuals from different faiths build understanding through common human experiences, shared spaces, and mutual respect.
How does the author connect religious traditions to the conflict?
The author argues that while religion is often used to ignite tension, true religious doctrine—when properly interpreted—actually emphasizes unity and humanity, serving as a solution rather than a cause of conflict.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Alloy Ihuah (Autor:in), 2021, The Conflict between Herders and Farmers in the Middle-Belt Nigeria, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1148812
