An Insight into the Impact of Religion on Social Cohesion and Conflict Resolution in Taraba State, Nigeria
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Abstract
This study examines the impact of religious practices on social cohesion and conflict resolution in Taraba State, Nigeria. The study employs a qualitative research methodology, utilizing both primary and secondary sources of data collection, including structured questionnaires. The study covers the period from 2001 to 2024, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of contemporary trends in religious dialogue and conflict resolution. The findings reveal that religion fosters collective identity and moral behaviour, it also contributes to ethnoreligious conflicts. These conflicts have hindered socio-economic development in the region. Furthermore, the study identifies barriers to promoting interfaith harmony, and then emphasizes on the need for strategies to mitigate religious tensions for peaceful coexistence in society. The study thus recommends that the government, in collaboration with religious bodies and civil society organizations, should develop policies that promote religious tolerance and regulate hate speech. These policies should also support community-based conflict resolution mechanisms that leverage traditional and religious peacebuilding strategies.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Apyewen, A. U., Ejue E. T., Edeh L. N. (Author)
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Dr. Apyewen, A. U., Federal University Wukari, P.M.B.1020 Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria
Head of Department, Religious Studies
Ejue E. T., Federal University Wukari, P.M.B.1020 Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria
Assistant Lecturer, Department of Religious Studies
Edeh L. N., Federal University Wukari, P.M.B.1020 Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria
Assistant Lecturer, Department of Religious Studies
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