A Christian Dimension to Inter-Religious Conflict Discourse in Nigeria

Abstract

Nigeria, as a country on the continent of Africa is a multi-ethnic and a multi-religious society with massive potential for social, economic and democratic development. However, intense religious conflicts and violence that manifested within the country from the pre-colonial and post-colonial era have made progress and development elude the country. Given this, numerous efforts have been made which tilts towards its extermination and eradication, but no main achievement has been witnessed, thus the issue of religious and ethnic conflicts is still a recurring decimal in the country. It is noteworthy, that many intellectuals have examined the discourse from different perspectives but nevertheless, this is an attempt to investigate the discourse from a Christian religious perception. The study employs qualitative and quantitative method of research such as research papers, interviews, opinion polls and articles relevant to the subject matter. The research found out amongst others that some Christian concepts and beliefs serve as a factor in the fuelling and quenching of inter religious conflicts in Nigeria. A realistic religious tactic to inter religious conflict is supplied as recommendations.