Saved in:
| Main Author: | |
|---|---|
| Format: | Recurso digital |
| Language: | |
| Published: |
Zenodo
2024
|
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15152638 |
| Tags: |
Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
|
Table of Contents:
- <p><span>This chapter examines religious conflicts in Nigeria as enduring legacies of colonialism, highlighting the intricate relationship between religion, politics, and identity. It traces the roots of contemporary religious violence to the colonial strategy of amalgamating culturally and religiously distinct regions into one entity without addressing underlying disparities. By focusing on the historical imposition of foreign governance, the manipulation of religious identities, and the politicization of religion during and after colonial rule, the chapter argues that colonial structures institutionalized division and competition among religious groups, especially Islam and Christianity. Using Nigeria as a case study, the chapter analyzes how successive post-independence governments, influenced by ethnoreligious agendas, have failed to establish a truly secular state. It explores the rise of movements such as Izala, Maitatsine, and Boko Haram as expressions of religious extremism rooted in socio-economic marginalization, identity politics, and a rejection of Western systems. The chapter also discusses the role of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in defending Christian interests in a perceived Islamizing political landscape. Ultimately, it concludes that religion in Nigeria, rather than fostering unity, has often reinforced ethnic, cultural, and political fault lines, thereby perpetuating conflict and undermining national cohesion.</span></p>