TERRORISM – A MONSTER FOR THE ACHIEVEMENT OF RELIGIOUS EGO: A RELIGIOUS SURVEY

Temitope T. Bello

Department of Religious Studies

University of Ado- Ekiti, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria

e-mail: venttbello@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

The concern of this publication is to look into the religious terrorism in the world, Nigeria in particular.  It has been viewed from the point of religious hatred and killing of opposite party, that people terrorize themselves because of religious differences and faith.  It has become a system where by a group of the people that believe in the same faith use terror against their neighbors in the name of God.  It is mentioned in this publication that all major religious can justify violence, and religion having long been associated with terrorism ever since there was good and evil. It will let people know that terrorists are disgruntled elements who pose as freedom fighters, and believe that by causing havoc; his or her requests will be given attention. These terrorists were trouble shooters who always want to use force in intimidating their prey to have their way.  This intimidation might either be religious or political in nature.  It is also a means whereby violence and fear with formidable forces are used as instrument to have their freedom. It would be read in this paper, the cause of terrorism in the society.  The cause includes intimidation, defending one’s faith, depriving people from their rights or freedom, marginalization, and so on. The paper will also mention the havoc wrecked by terrorists both on political and religious matters. It will look into religious terrorists in Nigeria.  Then, it will be known that, like other parts of the world, Nigeria is also affected by the influence of other terrorist’s countries of the world.  The expression, religious terrorism, is also applied to various religious persons or groups in Nigeria.