Religious Mutual Understanding and Tolerance: A Panacea to Overcome the Contemporary Religious Crises in Nigeria

Abstract

The paper espouses the purpose of religion as designed for man by Allah and highlights the level of relationship between individuals and groups. Some religious crises recorded in the country that has led to wanton destruction of lives and properties are highlighted. The paper probes into causes of religious crises as well as misunderstanding between adherents of different faith that pose security challenges in the country, through analytic study. It laments that the reckless and barbaric killings of innocent people (Muslims and non-Muslims) could be averted through understanding and peaceful co-existence. The model of Prophet Muhammad on tolerance and peaceful co-existence is recommended as a way out of the challenges and a way of entrenching peaceful society which guarantee a sustainable development.