RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE AMONG ITSEKIRI, A PANACEA TO PEACE IN DELTA STATE

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study is to examine religious tolerance among itsekiri, a panacea to peace in Delta State more often than not, intolerance is extremely rejected in favour of tolerance simply because of the belief that the latter produces a better chance of inter-personal relationship in a pluralistic society. In this sense tolerance will mean to allow others to practice their religious belief without hindrance. While the term ‘allow’ carries a legal import i.e. authorization, toleration means only the absence of objection rather than genuine approval of another’s religious belief. It is therefore the argument of this work that tolerance already divides between the powerful and the less-powerful, the privileged and the lessprivileged. This study seeks to find out the religious tolerance amongst Itsekiri people. The study recommended that the concept of love that these religions preach should not be taken with levity. It should be practiced wholeheartedly and with all diligence. Religious adherents should eschew extremism. Extremism has been a big factor in fueling the embers of religious crisis in Nigeria. The religious leaders can help in this instance by making sure they let their followers know the real truth (of peace) that is enshrined in their religion.