Imperatives of Socio-Religious Measures in Solving the Crisis in Nigeria

Abstract

Over the years, Nigeria has been tagged “a security risk nation” consequent upon which many international communities have warned their nationals not to live or even travel to the country. This is because Nigeria has been experiencing a number of crises, social vices, lack of cordial relationship among its various ethnic nationalities and constant hostilities among the inhabitants of villages, towns, cities, uprising by one state against another or among inhabitants of the same town or state based on tribal, religious or ideological differences. This study therefore, seeks to explore the imperative for socio-religious measures in solving the violence, conflicts and war (ISRMSCW) in the country. It looks at the causative factors of crisis and conflict and the implications of the incessant conflicts in Nigeria. In terms of methodology, the data used includes both primary and secondary sources. The survey of literature relevant to the subject - matter reveals that the principal religions recognized in the country are Islam and Christianity. Each of these plays a vital role in unity and co-operation and has an influence upon the individuals than the society. It was the conclusion of the study that religion, like any other phenomenon with good and bad sides, ought to offer itself as the best tool for social engineering to quell the lingering crises in Nigeria. For this to be achieved, it is recommended that religious organizations should be partners in progress to achieve social development and peace in the country.

Key Words: Violent, Fundamentalists, Religion, Imperatives, Conflicts