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Christian Responses to the Growth of Islam in Igboland, Nigeria, and its Implications for Christian-Muslim Relations in the Region.
(2023-10) 'Uzoeshi, Uzoma J.'
This study examined Christian responses to the growth of Islam in Igboland and its implications for Christian-Muslim relations. It investigated factors that promoted the growth and its trajectories among the Igbos, who are autochthonous to southeastern Nigeria and are considered overwhelmingly Christian in population and social culture. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach, integrating a qualitative phenomenological approach of semi-structured interviews with literature research. The research findings showed a gradual growth of Islam in this predominantly Christian region. It further indicated that Christians responded positively and negatively to the growth of Islam and interfaith relations. However, committed Christians hold more promise for reducing religious or ethnoreligious violence than nominal Christians, mainly because the former demonstrated the capacity for a more authentic Christian practice of peaceful co-existence in fostering Christian-Muslim relations as Islam advances its growth in Igboland. The study recommends interfaith dialogue to resolve religious violence and enhance peaceful co-existence.