RELIGION AND HUMAN SECURITY APPARATUS IN OGBA, IKWERRE AND YORUBA TRADITIONS

Abstract

Throughout the world, Peace is one phenomenon that no price can buy. Whether in religious, social, economic or political sphere, at any time any individual or group peace and security is jeopardised, such an individual or group will go to any length to defend himself or themselves. This paper discusses the concept of religious peace and security apparatus in Ogba, Ikwerre and Yoruba traditions. The study identifies certain institutions like the deities, secret societies, the age grade among others; as responsible for the maintenance of law and order whether in social or religious spheres. It identifies the various instrument of peace and security in these traditions and how these apparatuses are deployed to ensure social and religious security in the societies. The research recognises the policing role of the ancestors in a bid to maintain society in equilibrium. The paper highlights the role religion has played in peace and security in the Ogba, Ikwerre and Yoruba land. The purpose of this research is to identify, highlight and explain how religious peace served as prelude to social peace and security in Ogba, Ikwerre and Yoruba traditions. The paper employs the historical and comparative analytical model in the discussion. The study observes that every human society has its own way of securing itself against threats. It concludes that traditional mechanisms for ensuring religious and human security should be revived as a way of promoting social development.