BODIJA JOURNAL | A Philosophico-Theologal Journal

In this essay, we argued that the plural nature of the Nigerian state is being exploited through religion and ethnicity, to further deepen fragmentations among groups in a manner that hinders the flourishing of values that would promote the kind of relationship needed to foster human cooperation and solidarity and the evolution of a proper sense of nationalism. To underscore the import of the moral dimension in addressing problems arising from the unfortunate exploitation of ethnoreligious differences by some, the essay identifies a derisory of essential human values and norms as what continues to stifle the quality of human relations, fuel ethno-religious crises and hinder the development of the kind of group psychology needed for a harmonious relationship among the various groups in the country. Consequently, the essay recommends the building of bridging values and norms, not restrained by primordial considerations, as encapsulated in the social capital resources of trust, tolerance, cooperation and mutual respect. These, the essay concludes, would serve as relational principles for promoting internal cohesiveness and bridging relations among the disparate ethno-religious groups in Nigeria. The study employs the qualitative method of research through critical analysis of texts, library and archival materials.

Open Full Text (PDF)