RELIGIOUS INTOLERANCE, HUMAN RIGHT ABUSE, AND CHALLENGES OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGs)

Abstract

Religious intolerance is seen as an anti-social behaviour based on religious beliefs, with connections to human rights violation and development. Nigeria has experienced religious fanaticism from the days of Maitasine activities to contemporary violent extremism. This paper is anchored on Relative Deprivation Theory, which explains the relationship between religion and violent conflicts in Nigeria. The study concludes that religion has become an instrument for protest against deprivation and political marginalization, thereby triggering conflicts and tension. It recommends value re-orientation on religious tolerance in institutions of learning.