Interreligious Relations Among the Igala people

https://doi.org/10.36349/olijhe.2024.v01i01.020

Abstract

The three main religions practiced in Igala territory are Christianity, Islam, and African traditional religion. Consequently, the study looks at the relationships between the Igala people's various religions. An approach to qualitative research was adopted in this paper. With some contribution from my own experience as an Igala and as a missionary who has served 
pastorally in the Idah Diocese, the study was mostly based on library research. The study's conclusions demonstrated that, despite their differing religious perspectives, there are numerous examples of cooperation, support for one another, and a single, coordinated effort towards a common goal. The nation's two main religions, Islam and Christianity, are mostly cooperating in the fight against religious radicalism, discrimination, and anti-religious sentiment. The mutual mistrust, hostility, and animosity that have marred Nigeria's past in addition to violence and bloodshed seem to have overshadowed the 
positive sides of contacts between Christians and Muslims. The study suggests that rather than placing blame, each religious tradition should focus more on fostering effective religious development. For this type of instruction to be effective, it may begin with religious authority and work its way down. First, this instruction will help one form a firm understanding of their own faith, which will subsequently enable them to adopt the proper perspective about it.