Dimension of Religious Violence and Its Antecedent Effects on National Integration and Social Development in Nigeria

Abstract

It is reasonable to believe that the majority of believers believe that social harmony is fostered and guaranteed by “true” religion. Contrariwise, one might virtually conclude that most violent conflicts in the world had their roots in religion. This study undertakes analytical inquiry into the dimension of religious violence in Nigeria with a special focus on its antecedent effects on national integration and social development. Relative deprivation theory was adopted as the theoretical framework of the paper. The instrument of study was survey method relied on descriptive research design. The chi-square approach was employed to assess the reliability of the hypothesis and the questionnaire. Drawing from the findings; security challenges, disintegration of Nigeria society, wanton destruction of lives and properties, economic decadence and political instability among others are few of the havoc done by religious violence in Nigeria. The paper concluded by recommending setting up of religious advisory body, teaching of genuine doctrine, entrenchment of interfaith strategies in the school curriculum, exhibition of attitude of religious tolerance and continued dialogue among the various religious bodies. Addressing the challenges of poverty and mass unemployment by the government is also sacrosanct.