Nsukka Journal of Religion and Cultural Studies
Nsukka Journal of Religion and Cultural Studies (NJRCS) is the official and open access journal of the Department of Religion and Cultural Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. As a peer-reviewed scholarly journal, NJRCS publishes independently reviewed research articles on broad religious, social science and other interdisciplinary fields aimed at promoting academic scholarship in the international arena. The journal also publishes book reviews within the aforementioned scope. The Editorial Board accepts and considers scholarly articles for possible publication which follow high ethical standards and well-defined methodology and conclusion. The opinions and views expressed in the articles do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Board. NJRCS publication appears tri-annually.
Department of Religion and Cultural Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Artificial Intelligence and Civil Liberties in Nigeria
Artificial intelligence (AI) offers significant potential for governance, public service delivery, and security in Nigeria. However, its deployment raises serious concerns for civil liberties, especially freedom of expression, non-discrimination, privacy, accountability, and due process. Nigeria lacks a comprehensive regulatory framework to safeguard these rights, creating a gap where artificial intelligence-driven surveillance, algorithmic decision-making, and automated moderation can operate unchecked. This study investigates the impact of artificial intelligence on civil liberties in Nigeria, identifies ethical, institutional, and legal challenges, assesses existing regulatory mechanisms, and proposes reforms to align artificial intelligence use with rights protection. Using a doctrinal-analytical method, the study reviews statutes, policy documents, academic literature, and case law. It also analyses selected case studies, like artificial intelligence use in media and judicial contexts, and draws comparative insights from other jurisdictions. Findings reveal that while legal instruments like the Evidence Act, NITDA Act, and NDPR exist, they are inadequate to regulate the opacity and complexity of artificial intelligence technologies. Significant gaps remain in transparency, remedies from rights violations, institutional oversight, and algorithmic accountability. Without proper safeguards, artificial intelligence use in Nigeria risks eroding civil liberties through opaque, unchallengeable systems and mass surveillance. The study therefore concludes that Nigeria must act proactively to balance innovation with rights protection. It recommends enacting a comprehensive artificial intelligence governance law, establishing independent oversight bodies, mandating algorithmic impact assessments, enforcing transparency and explainability requirements, promoting public digital rights literacy, and strengthening judicial and institutional capacity.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Islamic Strategies for Poverty Alleviation: A Lee Way for Muslim Ummah (Community) in Idah Local Government Area, Kogi State, Nigeria
Poverty is a global problem. It affects the human person differently of which Idah LGA, Kogi State is not left out. Idah Local Government houses the ancient town of the Igala people. It is probably the oldest town and cultural centre of the Igala land. Despite the abundant opportunities for wealth creation, the local government is still facing an increased poverty rate. This poverty rate is apparent with the increased number of beggars in the town and poor educational, health, and modern water facilities in the area. This has led beggars’ population to soar in a town where the majority of the population is of Islam. These beggars are seen around Mosques, market squares, busy road junctions and hospitals. Despite the fact that Idah is blessed with arable lands for agriculture, the River Niger and Benue banks etcetera, which could help in alleviating the people’s suffering through trading and merchandising, the reverse is the case as poverty remains a fact in the area. This paper analyses the effort of Islam in reducing poverty in Idah, and adopted mainly an analysis of relevant texts of the Quran as its method of data collection. Observation supplements the analysis of these texts as a form of data collection for the study. Findings of the study show that Islamic insistence on exemplary leadership, teaching that the rich should assist the poor, prayer and the practice of zakat and the establishment of waqf(endowment) will go a long way in addressing poverty in the area.
Osita Chidoka's Tripartite Concept of Uche, Uchu, and Egwuchineke as a Panacea to Youth Unemployment in Nigeria
Youth unemployment remains a persistent challenge in Nigeria, leading to economic marginalization, identity crises, and moral decline among young people. While conventional interventions like vocational training and financial empowerment exist, they often lack the cultural and ethical depth needed for sustainable impact. This paper explores Osita Chidoka’s indigenous philosophical framework- uche (intellect and vision), uchu (hard work and diligence), and egwu Chineke (reverence for the divine); as a transformative approach to addressing this crisis. Relying on secondary data, including Chidoka’s writings, academic literature, and relevant internet-based sources, the study highlights how these values can be integrated into Nigeria’s educational, religious, and policy institutions. The scope covers both urban and rural youth populations across the country. Findings suggest that embedding indigenous moral values within national discourse can complement existing economic strategies by nurturing self-driven, ethically grounded individuals. The paper recommends reforms in education to include moral philosophy and critical thinking, the involvement of traditional and faith-based institutions in ethical re-orientation, and the media’s role in promoting narratives of intellect, diligence, and divine reverence. Ultimately, uche, uchu, and egwu Chineke offer more than philosophical insights; they present a practical model for cultivating purposeful, self-reliant, and morally responsible Nigerian youth.
Do Ancestors Suffer? Traditional Igbo Beliefs on Suffering beyond Death
In Igbo culture, most people believe that death is only a transition. It is only a means of passing from the world of men to the world of spirits. Though many have written on the concept of ancestors and ancestral cults in Africa, few have tried to explore the issue of their possible connection to suffering and pain. This study explored Igbo spirituality, philosophy, and cultural beliefs to unravel the complexities surrounding the potential suffering of ancestors in the “land of the dead” and its implications for the nature of evil and human suffering. The study adopted a qualitative research design. Hence, interviews and surveys were done so as to gather qualitative data on respondents’ views, experiences, or beliefs regarding the potential suffering of ancestors. The findings show that in Igbo culture, people believe that an ancestor could suffer if, for example, he breaks the rules of the “cult of ancestors” or neglects his older ancestors while alive. Some of the ways they can experience suffering include hunger, shame, and exclusion from the cult or gathering of their ancestors, mockery, and emotional pain.
Matthew 27:3-5 And Anticipated Roles of Church Leaders to Suicide Among Christians in Africa
This study examines the dilemma surrounding Judas Iscariot’s suicide as depicted in Matt 27:3-5, analysing the implications of his actions in the Jewish and African contexts. It explores the motivations behind Judas’s betrayal of Jesus and the subsequent remorse that led to his suicide, highlighting the complexities of guilt, despair, and the consequences of betrayal. By drawing parallels between the biblical narrative of Judas Iscariot and modern-day suicide dilemmas, the study aims to contribute to existing knowledge as well as proffer feasible solution(s) to the problem of suicide in Africa. The historical-critical method of biblical exegesis and literary analysis method are applied in this study. The study focuses on the exegetical analysis of Matt 27:3-5 and application of its exegetical findings in African milieu. In addition, the role(s) of church leaders are carefully articulated through recommendations. The research emphasizes the need for church leaders to apply the text in order to support and equip the congregations to engage with challenges of despair and distress compassionately and effectively. The researchers are of the view that proper elucidation of the text and its absorption would encourage antidote to despair and facilitate interpersonal co-existence among people.
Liturgical Disjunction and Dual Religious Identity among the Christian Igbo
This paper explores the persistent phenomenon of dual religious identity among the Christian Igbo of southeastern Nigeria, framing it not as a theological failure but as a pragmatic response to a significant liturgical disjunction. Despite Christianity's dominance, indigenous cosmologies and rituals rooted in traditional religion (Ọdịnala) still hold considerable influence, especially in areas such as burial, healing, and fertility. The study argues that this duality results from the historical imposition of Western missionary liturgies that did not engage the Igbo symbolic universe, creating a ritual vacuum in crucial areas of existential importance. This research is guided by the theoretical frameworks of multiple religious belonging and postcolonial critique, utilising qualitative document analysis. It shows how the resulting synculturation, the strategic blending of traditions, serves as a survival strategy for believers. The analysis highlights that neo-traditional movements are a cultural response to this unmet need for holistic spirituality. The paper concludes by proposing practical pastoral strategies for integration, including inculturated liturgy, contextual catechesis, and culturally sensitive theological education. The goal is to develop a unified Christian spirituality that genuinely respects both biblical orthodoxy and the rich Igbo heritage, transforming fragmentation into a resource for deeper theological understanding.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ike Ezenwa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Impacts of Urbanisation on a Child's Moral Development in Nsukka, Nigeria.
The rate at which people move from place to place has led to deleterious effects on childhood moral formation among Nsukka people of Enugu State. The assessment of the influence of urbanisation on the childhood moral formation in Nsukka therefore; become needful, that is the problem this work is poised to tackle. The major purpose of this study is to specifically ascertain the decline of childhood moral formation in Nsukka. The specific objectives included to examine the causes of the decline of childhood moral formation and to find out the nature of the decline of childhood moral formation in Nsukka. This work adopted a qualitative research design. As such, the method of data collection was oral interview. The work illustrates how urbanisation has disrupted traditional values and customs, bringing about both beneficial and harmful effects. On the positive side, urbanisation offers individuals the opportunity to interact with people from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds. This exposure fosters a spirit of tolerance and learning, enabling people to coexist peacefully in shared spaces. It also broadens their understanding of various social norms and behaviors. On the negative side, however, urbanization has contributed to a decline in children's moral upbringing, The emergence of Western centered perspectives and the erosion of indigenous Igbo cultural practices. Corruption which is inherent in these forces has unleashed unparalleled wave in secularism, materialism, greed which have engulfed the moral life of children in Nsukka. The study suggests that the government and other relevant bodies should oversee and control the content shared through print, electronic media, and other morally questionable materials in circulation today, in order to protect the younger generation from moral deterioration, based on the study's findings.
Copyright (c) 2025 Blessing N. Ezema https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Ethnic Influence on Leadership Process in Multi-ethnic Societies: An Analysis of the Nigerian Baptist Convention’s Apex Leadership
Incontrovertibly, multicultural religious institutions, and particularly the Nigerian church, have been entangled with ethnic issues in their leadership processes. Consequently, such a self-limiting syndrome affects the church and the immediate society. Therefore, this study investigated perspectives of ethnic influence on leadership processes in multi-ethnic societies with particular reference to the Nigerian Baptist Convention. The paper relied on a mixed-methods approach, utilising a semi-structured survey questionnaire administered to 20 Yoruba and Non-Yoruba pastors and in-depth interviews with 6 key informants (3 Yoruba and 3 Non-Yoruba Pastors). The research findings identified a subtle ethnic influence on the apex leadership selection process in the Nigerian Baptist Convention. Hence, the paper suggested that approaches to limiting ethnic influence on leadership selection processes in multi-ethnic societies include promoting a system that intentionally prioritises, initiates and sustains equality of members' rights and privileges irrespective of ethnic affiliation; a transparent and merit-based leadership selection process that designates apex leadership positions on a periodic rotational basis among representing regions or ethnic groups; a leadership development program tailored to the peculiarities of different regions; and a constitutionally backed charter for an inclusive and broadly distributed apex leadership, monitored and enforced by a legally empowered administrative unit.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ayodele Samuel Adeyeye , Gabriel Oluwaseyi Abolade, Oluwaseun O. Afolabi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Genesis 34:1-4 Read in the Context of Sexual Violence Against Female Teenagers in Nigerian Society
Gen 34:1-4 discusses the sexual assault of Dinah by Shechem, highlighting sexual violence against women in ancient Israel and its parallels in modern Nigerian society. The phenomenon of rape is a pervasive issue globally and in Nigeria; it causes a long-term psychological trauma for victims, especially teenagers. The article adopted a literary approach to analyse Gen 34:1-4, focusing on its implications for Nigerian society. The study noted that Shechem’s audacity in requesting Dinah’s hand in marriage after violating her without any sign of remorse or asking for her forgiveness reflects the social status that the patriarchal ancient Israelite society placed on women’s gender. This attitude highlights a trauma often faced by the victims of sexual violence and the societal neglect they experience. The findings of the study highlighted that gender inequality, cultural norms, lack of legal protection, normalisation of violence, and stigma contribute to sexual assault against teenagers and women in Nigeria. The work expresses that there is an urgent need for Nigerian justice systems that support survivors of sexual violence. The study calls for prioritizing women's rights and ensuring severe punishment for perpetrators to alleviate victims’ trauma.
Copyright (c) 2025 Damian Onyemaechi Odo, Chioma O. Akachukwu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Nigeria and the quest for a secular state: The way forward
The persistent influence of religion on Nigeria’s politics continues to cast aspersions on the state’s secularism. Nigeria is religiously pluralistic with adherents of Christianity and Islam differing on the notion of secularism. This divergence in opinion is further heightened by the absence of a general consensus on the meaning of secularism. The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria as amended is not specific in professing the state’s secularism, it only affirmed antiestablishment, religious freedom and equality. Relying on secondary data, the article utilises content analysis to provide a refined understanding of the complexities surrounding Nigeria's quest for secularism. The findings reveal that existing relations between religion and politics contradict the notion of secularism, and strengthens the supposition that Nigeria is only secular in theory but not in practice. This paper highlights the benefits of secularism in a pluralistic state and recommends civic education among others, to quell the age-old secularism debate.
Copyright (c) 2025 Wendy Chinonyerem Benaiah, Oluwanifemi Pelumi Adeyemo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
When the last is actually the first: Locating climate concern and action in African religious leaders’ finite pool of worry
Religious leaders in Africa worry and play vital roles in addressing social issues. However, research and selected religious communiqués indicate that they are more concerned about other social issues than they are about climate change and the need for action. Unlike previous scholarly efforts and policy analysis, this study contends that, considering the significant threat of climate change and its complex connections with other social issues, religious leaders ought to give priority to climate concern and action. In doing so, religious leaders can effectively tackle interconnected problems and formulate comprehensive solutions that generate broad positive impacts across the continent. This study, however, does not suggest solely focusing on climate change, as that would exhibit biases. Instead, the study suggests that it would be prudent to allocate sufficient attention and resources to addressing climate change while also maintaining commitments to sustainably addressing other social issues in Africa.
Copyright (c) 2025 George C. Nche https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Online Gaming and Socio-moral Well-being: The Case of Nairobi City Teenagers
In a changing world where parents are relatively absent, children have often found online gaming attractive. This is driven by technological advancements and the relatively low internet cost within Nairobi City County Kenya hence, leaving teenagers susceptible to the negative effects of online gaming. While online gaming can serve as a tool to enhance education as well as a form of entertainment, excessive and unsupervised engagement raises concern on its effects on teenagers’ social, emotional and moral wellbeing. The study underscored the importance of parental involvement in mitigating the negative effects of online gaming. The study was guided by Digital Balance Theory. A descriptive research design was employed to gather qualitative data. Using stratified random sampling, the study was conducted in five secondary schools in Nairobi County, with the target population comprising of twenty (20) subject teachers and one hundred and eighty (180) secondary school learners. The findings revealed that a high percentage of teenagers spend at least three (3) hours engaged in online gaming. In addition, there was a significant increase in aggressive behaviour among teens within the school setting. Students addicted to online gaming exhibited symptoms of anxiety and exhaustion. The study ended by making recommendations.
Ethical Imperatives of Wisdom, Justice, and Human Dignity in Old Testament Wisdom Literature: Implications for Artificial Intelligence and Civil Liberties in Africa
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into modern society has sparked significant debate, particularly regarding it’s ethical and societal implications. This paper explores the Old Testament's concepts of wisdom, justice and human dignity of Wisdom Literature, in relation to Artificial Intelligence and civil liberties in Africa. The researcher used secondary sources of information. The method adopted is the interdisciplinary Approach. This approach combines insights from theological analysis Examining Old Testament Wisdom Literature and its relevance to contemporary issues such as artificial intelligence. By analysing biblical texts and contemporary scholarship, the study revealed the tension between technological advancement and the preservation of human dignity and rights. AI development necessitates ethical considerations that align with biblical wisdom principles. Wisdom Literature provides a framework for responsible AI integration, balancing innovation with justice and underscoring the necessity of ethical AI governance. It is the view of this article that AI ethics should prioritize human dignity and fairness. This study concludes with recommendations for ethical AI development and implementation in Africa, grounded in biblical wisdom and respect for civil liberties. This is because without proper ethical guidelines, AI may exacerbate inequalities and threaten personal freedoms. The study, therefore, advocates a biblically-informed approach that ensures AI serves humanity rather than undermines fundamental rights.
The Role of Islamic Teachings in Maintaining Civil Liberties: The Case of Idah Local Government, Kogi State
Sometimes, Islam is regarded as a religion that promotes antagonism between Muslims and non-Muslims. But this is not the case. Islam is a religion of peace that regulates the affairs of humans. Civil liberty is the basic human rights enshrined in the laws that govern communities for their good and progress. They include, for example, right to life, freedom speech and worship among others. This research was done in the context of Idah local government area of Kogi state to show how Islam contributes to the upholding of civil liberty in the area. Adopting both the primary and secondary sources of data collection, in its approach to the discussion, the findings of the research showed that the Quran and the Hadith are the primary source of Islamic beliefs and practices. The paper showed how the teachings of Islam contribute towards maintaining the civil liberty of the people. It was shown in the study that through the knowledge of Allah of the creator of humans, through the belief in punishment and reward, through its teaching on good neighbourliness and the freedom of speech and expression, Islamic teachings contribute, in their own way, in upholding civil liberties in Idah Kogi state. This way, the study has therefore contributed to the debate on the relationship between religion and civil liberties in academic discourse.
Imperialism, Corruption and Protest in Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s Petals of Blood and Wizard of the Crow
Most African countries today are at the verge of collapse as a result of corruption and failed leadership, occasioned by imperial conquest of Africa by the West. This led to the steady but gradual erosion of African cultural values and bred self-centred elites who saw nothing good in their African roots. This paper takes a literary journey into Ngugi wa Thiong'o's Petals of Blood and Wizard of the Crow to examine how he has continued to criticise African landers and the elites and how he has educated and aroused the consciousness of the peasants and workers of Kenya and Africa in general to rise up and protest neo-colonial leaders. Adopting the library-based research and content analysis of the two primary texts, this paper employs literary Marxism as interpretative ideology to examine Ngugi's stance on neo-colonialism, corruption and protest in his literary ouvres as the only way to check both individual and community excesses of the African elites in modern times. The findings of this paper show that Ngugi is not just re-telling history, neither is he an unbeliever but he uses his literature as a tool for raising national consciousness of the masses that their present socio-political and economic conditions lie with their corrupt leaders. He advocates for mass action of the workers and peasants of Kenya and Africa to hold their leaders accountable.
Alternative Journalism and Hashtag Activism: The Influence of Netizens in the Drive for Social Justice in Southern Nigeria
Violations of civil liberties and disregard for basic human needs in Nigeria’s socio-political and economic setting have given rise to alternative journalists; equipped with social media and the effective use of hashtags, drawing attention to various social issues and mobilising for action towards amelioration such problems. This study investigated the trend of alternative journalism facilitated by hashtag activism in Southern Nigeria and how it has been used in advocating for social justice in Southern Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted and 122 Mass Communication students responded to the Google Forms questionnaire from three Nigerian universities in Southern Nigeria. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics. An average mean rating of 3.27 and 3.02 indicated respondents’ concurrence with using hashtags and their impact on social justice advocacy respectively. Concerted government and public response in addressing issues given prominence by alternative journalists is important to foster social justice.
The Role of Religion in Democratic Governance: Guardian of Civil Liberties or Catalyst for Conflict?
The intricate relationship between religion and democracy has sparked intense debate among scholars and policymakers. Understanding this complex dynamic is crucial for promoting inclusive governance, social cohesion, and civil liberties in contemporary societies. This paper examines the dual role of religion in democratic governance, exploring its potential as both a guardian of civil liberties and a catalyst for conflict. Using a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative case studies and a quantitative structured survey, this study investigates how religious institutions and beliefs influence democratic processes and social harmony. The analysis draws on primary data from the survey and case studies, as well as secondary data sources. The interplay between religious freedom and democratic principles is highlighted, addressing both positive contributions and divisive impacts. The findings reveal a multifaceted relationship between religion and democracy, with outcome varying significantly based on contextual factors.
Reading Deuteronomy 16:20 in the Frame of John Rawls' Justice as Fairness: Implications for Social Justice and Political Order in Nigeria
Deut 16:20 unequivocally articulates justice as an indispensable element for societal well-being and sustained political order for the nascent Israelite nation. The text asserts that there is no viable alternative to justice in ensuring the prosperity of the people in the Promised Land. Today, justice has indisputably become the bedrock of any flourishing society across the globe. This notion resonates with John Rawls’ description of justice as the primary virtue of social institutions. The Nigerian experience, however, presents a contradictory and complex dynamic in which justice is frequently undermined by governance deficits and the flagrant negation of true democratic principles, resulting in a myriad of social injustices. The paper aims to interpret Deut 16:20 within the theoretical framework of John Rawls’ justice as fairness, with the intent of showing the implications for social justice and political order in Nigerian society. The paper employs critical social theory to critique Nigeria’s social justice situation and interpret Deut 16:20 through the lens of African biblical hermeneutics. The findings indicate that while Deut 16:20 socio-historically addresses ancient Israel, the biblical text is contextually amenable to the contemporary Nigerian social justice situation. Furthermore, it shows that the oppression of marginalised groups by privileged elites significantly contributes to the entrenchment of political disorder in Nigeria. The paper concludes that it is imperative that Nigeria prioritise social justice issues while ensuring equitable governance. Only through reforms that favour the disadvantaged masses can the nation hope to realise its democratic aspirations and secure a fair society for all its citizens.
Following its tradition of holding an annual international conference, the Department of Religion and Cultural Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka organised its 8th hybrid international conference between February 26 and 28, 2025. The theme of the conference was Religion, Civil Liberties and Democracy. The conference attracted scholars from Nigeria and beyond whose papers addressed the theme of the conference from diverse perspectives. This special issue of Nsukka Journal of Religion and Cultural Studies (NJRCS) represents some of the papers presented during the conference after being thoroughly peer reviewed. The first article in the issue is that of Moses Idemudia which reads ‘Deuteronomy 16:20 in the Frame of John Rawls' Justice as Fairness: Implications for Social Justice and Political Order in Nigeria’ It is followed by ‘The Role of Religion in Democratic Governance: Guardian of Civil Liberties or Catalyst for Conflict?’ written by Stella Chinweudo Ekwueme, John Chijioke Madubuko and Joy Onyinyechukwu Ezugwu. The next article in the issue addresses ‘Alternative Journalism and Hashtag Activism: The Influence of Netizens in the Drive for Social Justice in Southern Nigeria’ and is written by Adonai Eziefula. Manasseh Terwase Iortyer and Katkuka Danjuma Gokum address the issue of ‘Imperialism, Corruption and Protest in Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s Petals of Blood and Wizard of the Crow’. Emmanuel Chijioke Agoha’s article “Ethical Imperatives of Wisdom, Justice, and Human Dignity in Old Testament Wisdom Literature: Implications for Artificial Intelligence and Civil Liberties in Africa’ addresses the issue of wisdom, justice and human dignity from the perspective of the wisdom literature to show what implications it has for Artificial Intelligence and Civil liberties in the African context. Isah Isiaka’s article, ‘The Role of Islamic Teachings in Maintaining Civil Liberties: The Case of Idah Local Government, Kogi State', explores how Islam plays a role in maintaining civil liberties in his native Idah, Kogi State, Nigeria. Finally, in the issue is contained, a ‘stand-alone’ article by Perpetua Omemo Oniala on ‘Online Gaming and Socio-moral Well-being: The Case of Nairobi City Teenagers’ From a broad perspective, these articles have contributed to the ongoing scholarly discussion on the issues of religion, civil liberties and democracy: They have, in fact, shown that civil liberties and democracy could be addressed from various perspectives.
The Socio–Religious Impacts of Agbalanze in Onitsha, South East Nigeria
Agbalanze cultural society of Onitsha is an association reserved for indigenous Ọzọ titled men. With its immemorial existence, men of Onitsha who love their tradition aspire for membership regardless of its cost implications. Primarily, men of Onitsha join this society to have a sense of belonging and benefit from gains accruing from being a member. Though a lot have been written about Ozo in Igbo land, not much has been written about Agbalanze Onitsha. The researchers therefore seek to unravel the social and religious impacts of Agbalanze in Onitsha. The research methodology employed in this paper is qualitative. The data was sourced through the primary and secondary sources. The researchers were able to establish that Agbalanze plays critical social and religious roles in Onitsha society.
Harmonising African and Christian Theology: A Critical Analysis of Charles Nyamiti’s Approach
The study explores Charles Nyamiti’s approach to African Christian theology, focusing on integrating traditional Christian doctrines with African thought patterns. It centres on the Christology and ecclesiology of Nyamiti, who built it on the assumption that Christ’s function in the Church is similar to that of traditional African ancestors. This article uses a multidisciplinary approach to explore Charles Nyamiti’s African and Christian Theology. It employs comparative analysis, historical inquiry, hermeneutical analysis, and contextual theological reflection to examine the complex intersections between African traditional beliefs and Christian theology, addressing issues like social justice and liberation. Charles Nyamiti’s African ancestral Christology emphasises Christ’s divinity and humanity, viewing him as a brother-ancestor in Bantu culture. He argues Christ’s intimate connection with humanity is rooted in His Adamite origin. Nyamiti’s theology highlights the Church’s role in African theology, emphasising the Eucharistic sacrifice and the connection between Christ and the Christian community. However, critics argue that Nyamiti’s approach lacks clarity and a clear connection between humanity and Christ. The study concludes that Nyamiti’s construct illuminates the Christian faith among African people but faces methodological problems that detract from its conclusiveness.
The Message of Amos on Justice and Righteousness and its Relevance to Nigerian Society
This paper examines the dilemma of the prophet Amos’ message in the Nigerian context amid oil wealth enjoyed by the few rich and political class and the life-threatening poverty of the masses courtesy of the bourgeois. In Amos’ day, the rich were accumulating more wealth and living large at the expense of the poor who were languishing in penury. The unfortunate situation matches the ugly trend in present-day Nigerian society. Amos cried out passionately against the increased gap between the wealthy and the poor. He preached the message of God to Israel when the economy of Israel was booming, while the rich were crushing the poor. The act of oppressing the poor, sojourners and the defenceless in the land was a serious crime before God. Amos, without delay, launched an attack against the privileged that had downtrodden the vulnerable. He pronounced God’s judgment over the nations cautioning that any nation that disobeyed God’s commands and condoned evil would inescapably face God’s wrath. The study adopts a narrative criticism to explore and analyse prophet Amos’ message to address similar anomalies in Nigeria. In its innovative recommendation, the study calls for restructuring as the only solution to salvage the ugly trend in Nigeria.
Language choice in religious domains: Exegesis from the Qur’an at Masjidul Qudwah, Tamale, Ghana
This paper explores language choice in Islamic discourse, focusing on Tafseer sessions at Masjidul Qudwah. Three languages- Arabic, Dagbani, and English—are employed for various purposes. Arabic is the primary language due to its doctrinal significance, facilitating deeper commentary. Dagbani, the dominant local language, reflects community usage and accessibility. English, though not commonly spoken locally, is utilized to engage a wider audience, particularly through social media. Despite the presence of larger mosques conducting Tafseer in Ramadan, Masjidul Qudwah stands out for its multilingual approach. The preference for English and Dagbani over Hausa, despite the latter’s prevalence among the Zongo communities, underscores unique linguistic dynamics. The data for this study was gathered during Ramadan of 2023. Videos of the daily tafseer sessions were downloaded from the Facebook wall of Masjidul Qudwah while the researcher was away from Tamale, where the mosque is located. The videos were transcribed and studied, paying attention to the number of languages used. This study suggests that future research should conduct a comparative analysis of language choices in Tafseer, particularly between English and Hausa alongside Dagbani, offering insights into how language choice shapes interpretations and engagement with the Qur’an.
Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) and her global mission to defend the authority of the scripture
For some years now, the Anglican Communion world-wide have been contending with the problems arising from the infiltration of excessive modernism and liberal thought into its midst from the West. The study examines critically the key events of the two Lambeth Conferences in the last millennium, held in 1988 and 1989, wherein women ordination and the Western philosophy of human sexuality were debated. Prompting the Africa and the global south to severed relation with their sister churches in the West and founded Global Anglican Future Conference GAFCON. Many talks have been held between the liberal and the conservatives to find solutions to the problems, but to no avail. Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) established missionary diocese in the West where church is highly leveraged and grappling with Western philosophy of human sexuality. Although it seems impossible to stop gay-union, its spread was curbed. Proper harmonization of missionary dioceses recommended for maximum profit. A historical approach was adopted, basically depending on secondary sources, supplemented with oral interviews.
Noting the specifics in African Cosmology: Who is God in the indigenous beliefs of Abanyom communities in Cross River State, Nigeria?
The current research investigates how the Abanyom community views God as the world’s creator and preserver, challenging long-standing Western assumptions that Africans lack the capacity to conceptualize a God. While the notion of God within African cosmology has received limited empirical attention, it has not been examined specifically from the perspective of the Abanyom people. Employing a qualitative research design, data were collected from 15 participants and analyzed thematically. The findings highlight key themes, including God’s role as the creator and sustainer of the natural world, the dearth of an Abanyom creation myth, and God’s involvement in ancestral ceremonies. The finding also reveals Abanyom people’s reliance on the Christian Bible to clarify aspects of divine sovereignty where traditional Abanyom beliefs lack specificity, indicating the presence of religious syncretism. These findings underscore the need for revitalizing indigenous religious education to preserve and transmit African traditional beliefs to future generations.
Ecumenism and Interreligious Dialogue: An Interpretation of the Akan Proverb Ti Koro Nko Agyina
In our diverse world today, cultivating relationships between different religions and denominations is essential for fostering mutual understanding and promoting global harmony. This paper investigates the Akan saying ti koro nko agyina (one head does not sit in council) as an indigenous sacred text that encourages ecumenism and interreligious conversation. The saying highlights the importance of collective knowledge and collaboration among various religious communities to tackle societal challenges, asserting that no single faith possesses the entirety of wisdom. The study looks into the Akan governance system, which is marked by decentralization and a confederation lifestyle, where different clans, each with unique cultures and beliefs, come together to deliberatively engage in communal discussions and reach agreements. The significance of the okyeame (linguist) is underscored due to its crucial role in accurate interpretation and successful communication. The research employs a methodology that focuses on developing Akan contextual hermeneutics by incorporating indigenous knowledge, metaphors, and symbols, and contrasting it with conventional biblical hermeneutics. It promotes an expanded use of contextual hermeneutics to encompass indigenous texts, thereby enhancing interreligious discourse. Ecumenism is understood in both narrow and wide contexts, emphasizing interfaith connections and global religious cooperation. Different forms of interreligious dialogue are examined, such as life dialogue, educational exchanges, community participation, philosophical and theological discussions, and reflective practices. The proverb is positioned as a significant contribution to ecumenism, highlighting the importance of shared wisdom in addressing global issues.
Interrogating the Durkheimian Theory of Religion and its Implication on African Religion and Environmental Sustainability
In the contemporary world, humanity is confronted with a lot of challenges through our actions and inactions. One of these challenges is environmental degradation and its concomitant effect. As a result, diseases have increased, global warming is a threat, Green House emissions and pollution are also increasing. This scenario has drawn the attention of the academia, governments, United Nations, non-governmental organizations and religious bodies across the globe on how best to mitigate this challenge. Questions are asked on who to blame and what should be done. This study, as an aim, seeks to look into these mind-boggling hiccups and proffer solutions to the lingering menace where the thoughts of Emile Durkheim are interrogated to identify how it has contributed to African Religious thoughts on environment and how the theory can help in environmental sustainability. Qualitative research approach is adopted in the work for information gathering. The paper discovered that in spite of accusations and counter accusations on the aspect of environmental degradation and sustainability, there is still hope that African religious environmental management can help tame the tide in respect of ecological crisis. The paper recommended that there is need for action by all and sundry towards achieving the desired qualitative and conducive environment now and for the future.
Copyright (c) 2024 Nsukka Journal of Religion and Cultural Studies https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Role of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Ensuring Environmental Sustainability in Plateau State, Nigeria
This paper focuses on the role of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in ensuring environmental sustainability in Plateau State, Nigeria. The aim of the study is to examine the current state of the environment in Plateau State, identify the environmental challenges facing the state, and assess the role of Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in addressing these challenges. The methodology used in the research is phenomenology. The study finds that Plateau State faces significant environmental challenges, including deforestation, erosion, pollution, and climate change. The paper also reveals that Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) has been involved in promoting environmental sustainability through initiatives such as Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Community Development Program (CCDP), tree planting campaigns, waste management programs, and advocacy for sustainable agriculture. The paper concludes that Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) need to intensifies its efforts to promote sustainable environmental practices in collaboration with other stakeholders to address environmental challenges.
Care for Creation: Religion and Environmental Sustainability in South-eastern Nigeria
The world is contending with the severe problems of climate change, biodiversity loss, resource depletion, and the reckless destruction of wildlife. South-Eastern Nigeria is particularly afflicted by environmental issues such as deforestation, soil erosion, and pollution, worsened by both governmental exploitation of mineral resources and daily human activities. Utilising a qualitative research approach, this study explores the interconnectedness between religion and sustainability of the environment in south-eastern Nigeria, focusing on the part played by religious beliefs and practices in shaping environmental attitudes and behaviours. Data were gathered through focus group discussions and the examination of religious and relevant texts. Employing thematic analysis, the findings reveal that while religious teachings frequently advocate for environmental stewardship, there is a notable discrepancy between these teachings and actual practices. Cultural and socio-economic factors also affect how these teachings are interpreted and implemented. The study underscores the potential of religious institutions to significantly influence environmental sustainability by harmonising religious teachings with sustainable practices. The research enriches the understanding of the complex interactions between religion and environmental sustainability, promoting comprehensive strategies that harness the power of religious institutions to create a more sustainable future in south-eastern Nigeria.
The Impact of Religion on Environmental Sustainabilty: The Case of Benue State, Nigeria
The problem of environmental sustainability in Nigeria is exacerbated by the complex interplay of religious and political influences. Religious doctrines and political frameworks often clash or fail to adequately address environmental issues, leading to ineffective policies and practices. This paper therefore examined the impact of religion and politics on environmental sustainabilty in Benue State, Nigeria. The study was guided by two research questions and hypotheses. The study employed a correctional survey research design. The study population comprise of 1,454,303 members of all registered religious bodies in Benue State out of which 400 respondents were randomly sampled for the study. The study employed structure questionnaire as instrument of data collection. Data collected was analysed using mean and standard deviation to answer research questions. Hypotheses were tested using chi-square statistical tool. The findings revealed that religion has positive impact on climate change. The study further revealed that religion also has impact on environmental sustainability in Benue State. Tapping into these motivations and combining them with religious teachings about climate change and environmental sustainability could provide a powerful story line to enable the desired change. It was therefore recommended, among other things, that the religious leaders should endeavour to adopt appropriate measures in motivating their members to change their behaviours towards enhance environmental sustainability in the state.