RELIGIOUS ABUSE: A BANE TO NATION BUILDING
Abstract
This case study reflects on the interconnectivity of religious abuse and nation-building in Nigeria. Nigeria is a country marked by significant religious diversity and ongoing socio-political challenges. The study explores the impact of religious abuse, which includes but not limited to extremism and discrimination, on Nigeria's social fabric and political stability. To understand how colonial legacies have shaped current religious dynamics, key historical contexts are considered by highlighting specific instances of religious abuse such as the insurgency of Boko Haram, and assess their effects on national unity and governance. The paper further evaluates the Nigerian government’s responses to religious abuse and their effectiveness in promoting nation-building. Findings suggest that while the government has implemented various countermeasures and dialogue initiatives, persistent challenges remain due to deep-seated societal divisions and governance issues. The case study, which adopts the method of critical analysis, underscores the need for comprehensive policy responses and genuine interfaith collaboration to foster national unity and support sustainable development. The implications of this research extend to understanding how religious abuse can undermine nation-building efforts and the importance of addressing these challenges to achieve long-term stability and development in Nigeria.
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