Pluralism and Religious Tolerance

Abstract

One of the most challenging theological issues of our time is how to account for the great number and diversity of world religions. Yet it is also one of the most troubling social issues confronting humanity, for disputes and disagreements over religious beliefs have been and continue to be sources of conflict around the world. As noted theologian Hans Küng once said, “There will be no peace among the peoples of the world without peace among the world religions.”¹ This is equally true in Nigeria, where religious differences, mainly between the three major faiths of the country—Yoruba. Christianity, and Islam—but also between other more marginal faiths, such as Igbo and Kalabari religions, are the source of strife and discord throughout the country.There have been many accounts of conflicts among adherents of theYoruba, Igbo, Edo, Kalabari, Hausa, and Tiv religions.