The Socio-political and Economic Implications of Ethno-Religious Crises in Kaduna State, Nigeria, 2000-2011 60-89

Abstract

Many states in Nigeria have been devastated by ethno-religious crises. The frictions in Kaduna were caused by a combination of factors that range from the introduction of Sharia Law, Muslim/Christian divide, added to unequal treatment of ethnic groups within the state structures, unemployment, misconception of Christians and Muslims about their faith, Christians and Muslim Fundamentalists, bad governance, ethnicity and indoctrination of some of the communicant of both faiths. The research argues that the sudden upsurge of the skirmishes affected the socio-political and the economic activities of the people in the state. Socially, many lives were lost while, thousands were displaced. Economically, it thwarted business activities, which resulted in unemployment of many. The crises crippled the political life of the people. Some group agitated for the creation of another state. Secondary sources in the form of books, journals, articles, oral interviews and internet sources were used. The research recommends that Christians and Muslims should accommodate the cultural, religious and developmental differences within the objective of one indivisible nature. To ensure lasting political stability and economic development, there should be respect for individual and community rights, justice, fair play, equity, transparency and high degree of public morality. The government of Kaduna State should provide more basic amenities for the entire local government within the state.