AMAMIHE Journal of Applied Philosophy

Interfaith conflicts in Nigeria have become a persistent source of human rights violations, particularly affecting religious minorities. This study investigates the relationship between interfaith tensions and the violation of fundamental rights, with specific focus on minority groups, especially adherents of African Traditional Religion. It identifies the core problem as the increasing marginalization, discrimination, and vulnerability of minority religions within a socio-political environment dominated by Christianity and Islam. Adopting a qualitative research design, the study relies on secondary data, including scholarly works, human rights reports, and sociological analyses. A thematic approach is employed to examine the causes, patterns, and implications of interfaith conflicts. Findings reveal that political manipulation of religion, doctrinal intolerance, socio-economic disparities, and weak institutional protections significantly fuel interfaith conflicts and sustain human rights abuses. These conditions expose minority groups to violence, exclusion, and limited access to justice. The study recommends deliberate policy reforms, strengthened legal frameworks, and collaborative efforts among government, civil society, and religious institutions to promote tolerance, safeguard minority rights, and advance inclusive peace building in Nigeria.

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