Religious Intolerance as a Predictor of Violent Behaviour Tendency among Ilorin Residents, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines how religious intolerance predicts violent behaviour tendencies among residents of Ilorin, Nigeria. In the context of Nigeria’s multi-religious landscape, Ilorin has faced ongoing tensions that subtly endanger social cohesion. Theoretically anchored in Social Identity Theory and the Frustration-Aggression Framework, this study investigates how rigid religious identification and perceived collective frustrations translate into aggressive propensities. Using a correlational research design, data were gathered from 392 respondents through structured questionnaires and analysed using Pearson correlation, t-test, and ANOVA. The results indicated a positive and statistically significant relationship between religious intolerance and violent behaviour tendency, suggesting that higher levels of intolerance are linked with increased propensities for harmful behaviours. While no significant gender differences were observed, educational qualification showed a significant influence, indicating that higher education may mitigate susceptibility to violent tendencies. The study emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced interfaith engagement, targeted peace education, and communitybased dialogue structures to promote mutual respect and coexistence. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of identity-driven conflicts in religiously diverse settings such as Ilorin