Religious pluralism has long been a defining feature of African identity, nowhere more so than among the Yoruba of West Africa, where Ifa, Islam and Christianity have each contributed to the shaping of national consciousness.
However, in light of the rise of ethno religious nationalist rhetoric across Africa, and particularly in Nigeria, as well as increasing participation in indigenous religion on the continent and in the diaspora, are we entering a post-tolerance age as Africa seeks to reconcile its multiple identities?
Join us for this highly topical conversation with esteemed Professor of History, Dr Olukoya Ogen of Osun State University, whose 2017 co-edited collection “Beyond Religious Tolerance: Muslim, Christian and Traditionalist Encounters in an African Town”, explores the realities of the pluralist paradigm in Yorubaland.
Dr Ogen will take us through the historic and contemporary relationship between Africa’s three religions; the impact of pluralism on indigenous epistemologies, pedagogies and identity; and his thoughts on the future of religious tolerance as a defining feature of African identity.
Agenda
Welcome and Introductions, Apeike Umolu
Presentation, Dr Olukoya Ogen
Discussion & Q&A, Dr Olukoya Ogen and Apeike Umolu
A group of three multi-ethnic children from a blended family standing together outdoors in their yard, posing and smiling for the camera. The caucasian boy on the left is 11 years old. His stepsister and stepbrother are 13 year old twins, mixed race African-American and Caucasian.