Relevance of Yoruba Religious Tenets for Peaceful Coexistence in the Nigerian Multifaith Society” JOREPS: Journal of Religions and Peace Studies

Abstract

Peaceful Coexistence is a fundamental component of community development, corporate growth, and sunrival of the beautiful universe. At the heart of every faith community and culture lies the need to advance peaceful Coexistence to enhance meaningful lives and sustainable societies. Ni_ geria today is highly fragmented, less peaceful, and becoming unsafe, coupled with an environ_ ment of tension, violence, declining values, injustice, and reduced tolerance and respect for human rights. The foregoing has resulted in catastrophic loss ofhuman lives and properties. As a result, the paper adopted historical method to examine the relevance ofYoruba religious tenets for a peaceful Coexistence in Nigerian heterogeneous society. The paper, therefore, posits that Yoruba religious tenets couched in colleagueship, communal, and among others are catalysts for peaceful Coexistence in Nigeria. The paper concludes that integrating Yoruba religious tenets in Nigerian society would guarantee peaceful Coexistence and sustainable development, especially now that general election is in the offng. The paper recommends that interfaith dialogue should be adopted to promote mutual understanding and cooperation. Keywords: Yoruba religion, tenets, peaceful coexistence, multifaith, Nigerian society