RELIGION AND POLITICS ARE TWO FORCES THAT SHOULD OR SHOULD NOT BE MIXED.

By: Osuolale Oluwatomilayo Esther

 

 

Religion is how humans perceive and value their beliefs; as holy, sacred, absolute, spiritual, or divine—something worthy of deep reverence. It often encompasses how people address their ultimate concerns about life and the afterlife. For some, religion can form the core of their identity. On the other hand, politics involves the activities related to decision-making in groups or power dynamics among individuals, including the distribution of resources and status. Ideally, democracy in politics should serve the common good, but it has often become a significant obstacle. Consider, for example, our own country, Nigeria.

 

Religion and politics in Nigeria are two distinct entities whose intersection is often contentious. Despite this, religion plays a significant role in politics. Many Nigerians, however, show indifference toward the country’s political situation. But what will happen to Nigeria if we all sit back and watch? If we don’t question the actions of our government? Is it justifiable that peaceful protests often end in violence, tears, and death?

 

It is perhaps inevitable that religious commitments will sometimes clash with political demands. Currently, Nigeria is in a state of great turmoil. Prices are soaring, the economy is unstable, the cost of living is overwhelming, and the employment rate is plummeting. Even the simple act of living feels burdensome. In response, Nigerians have chosen to voice their pain—a right that is theirs by law.

 

A peaceful protest was organised to express dissatisfaction with the state of the economy. But what does it mean when some religious leaders discourage their followers from participating in such demonstrations? Does this not hinder societal progress?

Every individual, whether Christian or Muslim, holds an opinion—whether it aligns with their religious leaders or not. But if they are discouraged from participating in protests, who will take a stand? If it is a rule that they should not participate, will the country improve? Or are there more effective ways to address nationwide unrest?

I recall watching "We Are One" on BCOS when I was younger. But are we truly one now? If we cannot come together and speak out, who will? This is our country, ours to cherish, ours to build. It is heartbreaking when people step out to express themselves, only for it to end in violence or even massacre, while others watch from the comfort of their homes.

If the nation cannot be organised, what hope is there for our communities? What about our schools? How do politics and religion intersect at the University of Ibadan?

Consider the recent protest against fee hikes and the new electricity schedule at the university. A message circulated, reportedly from MSSNUI, urging Muslims not to participate in the protest, despite it being a just cause. Some claim the message wasn’t from MSSNUI, while others assert it was. What are we to believe?

When speaking to some Muslim students, one sister said, “It is against every laid-down rule and belief for a Muslim to partake in any form of protest, whether peaceful or violent.” Another student remarked, “I don’t know if it’s wrong or right. I’m not a strong Muslim, but I don’t have the strength to protest. I can’t risk getting rusticated.”

If it is indeed a rule that Muslims should abstain from peaceful demonstrations, is this justifiable? Aren’t we all fighting for the rights of everyone in the school? While it may not be my place to question the school management or the student union, the question remains, “Has the electricity issue truly been resolved?” “Are we now accepting this 10-hour electricity schedule, or is there more?” However, that is not the focus of this discussion.

The relationship between politics and religion in our immediate society is not fully understood or accurately defined. On a national scale, if societal issues are not addressed, the country will remain in chaos. Growth must start from within. Uncertainty and apathy should not be options, yet they are prevailing forces today.