The dynamics of (in) tolerance in some African multi-religious and multi-cultural contexts

Abstract

Indigenous religion was the lone practiced belief system before the emergence of Christianity and Islam. The three principal religions recognized within the Cameroonian and Nigerian contexts are Indigenous religion, Christianity, and Islam. The conflicting cohabitation, manifestations, and differences of these religions have resulted in intolerance, insecurity, confusion, manipulation, unrest, and violence since the tolerance extent has become minimal, deceptive, manipulative, and unbearable. This study aims to examine the signification and preoccupations of Indigenous religion, Islam, and Christianity. The paper also seeks to uncover the similarities and differences that characterize various religions and their impacts on the daily lives of Cameroonians and Nigerians. It equally analyzes the pivotal role of religious texts in enhancing tolerance among existing religions. This paper adopted primary sources like the Bible and Qur’an, including secondary sources such as books, articles, and internet sources. The study reveals that, despite the diverse and differing natures of the various religions, there are unifying factors that facilitate pacific coexistence. The existing religions have a common goal, though they take diverse paths to achieve their finality. The act of tolerating other religious faiths that differ from one’s own, promotes security, peace, understanding, empathy, and national integration. The paper concludes that, the similarities, if well researched and taken into account, can contribute immensely to guarantee and intensify tolerance, and mutual understanding, as well as a peaceful coexistence for both current and future generations. Consequently, on no account should any religion consider itself superior to others.