10. UNETHICAL RELIGIOSITY AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING IN CONTEMPORARY NIGERIA
Dimgba Dimgba Esowe, Ph. D – Department of Religious Studies
Clifford University,
Owerrinta, Abia State, Nigeria.
ddeso2001@gmail.com +2348025465129
Alala, Iheanacho Mendel, Ph. D – Department of Religious Studies
Clifford University,
Owerrinta, Abia State, Nigeria.
achoimalala@gmail.com +2348036713418
&
Enebieni Enebieni Eko, Ph. D – Department of Religious Studies
Clifford University,
Owerrinta, Abia State, Nigeria.
pastorekobi@yahoo.com, +2348036970755
Abstract
There is a continued spread of religious institutions in contemporary Nigeria. Different versions of Christian, Muslim and Traditional belief groups competing for wider recognition and followership in the Nigerian society do organize religious programs, social events and cultural festivals. Adherents of these three major religions in Nigeria are involved in the educational, economic, political, health, legal and social facets of the nation’s life. In spite of the religious pedestal upon which these practitioners stand, the inhuman scheme of trafficking in persons persists in the country whether at source, transit and destination points. This work employed the qualitative research method of Life World Analysis and the reviewing of relevant literature. Applying the principles of religious ethics as a standard of testing the motives of those involved in the human trafficking business, our research discovered that unethical religiosity among Nigerians is a key factor sustaining human trafficking in the country. This work recommends a thorough review of methods of assessing people, their occupation and attitude to work so as to avail various religious groups and leaders the necessary information needed for possible commendation or sanction of their adherents as the case may be.
Keywords: Unethical, Religiosity, Inhuman, Human trafficking, Adherents, Ethics.