Inter-Group Relations in Numan Federation: A Study of Ethnic Rivalry in Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria C.1958-1996

Abstract

Religion is a strong unifying factor especially in the developing world. It has unbridled influence in determining the nature of inter-group relations. Different religions unite their adherents into a single identity and interest, as a means to not only spiritual, but political, social and economic ends. Religion has become a veritable platform to access socio-economic and political power and to cushion resistance in intra-religious affairs. In relation to inter-religious relations, a particular religion exists as a cohesive indivisible identity, but a closer examination would reveal a conglomeration of incompatible denominations and sects indicating serious absurdity of unity. The core of this paper is to examine how some people are manipulating religion as a veritable tool for socio-economic benefits and political contest. The study focuses on the ethnic rivalry in the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN) in the former Numan Federation. The methodology adopted involves the use of oral interviews, archival materials and relevant data from other sources such as reports from ministries, Local Government Secretariats, and from different committees.