Religious Liberty in Nigeria: A Case Study of Terrorism

Abstract

Obviously, one cannot properly describe the present predicament in Nigeria today without making a conscious reference to fear of death due to continuous attempt and deliberate abuse of human life. The incessant attacks/killings by the Boko Haram and Fulani Herdsmen across the federation have brought about a great deal of insecurity mostly among Christians and every other person who does not share the same faith with the Islamic sect. Evidently, in the recent attacks Muslims are equally affected as can be seen in the burning of some mosques, killings and kidnapping of some who are also Muslim; mostly referred to as the doings of the bandits. However, the principal objective of this paper is to make a philosophical appraisal of the implication of terrorism with special emphasis on Boko Haram insurgency, Fulani Herdsmen and bandit activities in Nigeria as a challenge to Christianity and African traditional values. Using the method of analysis, the paper makes a critical reflection and addresses this challenge with the aim of proffering an authentic solution that will recognize and respect the value of human life and peaceful coexistence of all men irrespective of their religious and political inclinations.