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Religious Leader as Political Activists: The Nigerian Experience
Religion wields a lot of power in most human societies, making religious leaders highly influential in the state of affairs. Nigeria, though a multi-cultural and multi-religious country, is deeply influenced by religion and culture which directly and indirectly control the political sphere among other aspects of national relevance. The claim of superiority and dominance has served as the foundation for religious intolerance and several socio-religious crises and violence that have bedeviled Nigeria since independence. Though sometimes concealed in political garment, the fall out of the misuse of religion is usually motivated by religious bigotry. Using systematic review of literature, the objective of this paper is to examine the historical background of religion in Nigeria’s polity, and examine the activism of the two religions in seeking socio-political interventions in Nigeria’s political activities and electioneering. The paper adopts the historical and analytical research methods to examine upheld religious perceptions and beliefs that are significant determinants of socio-political participation in Nigeria. The paper also seeks to address how the Nigerian political system has somewhat benefitted and also suffered setbacks from the activities of religious leaders through the mis/use of power, ethnicity and nepotism which have been exploited by the political elite. This is with a view to critiquing, the roles of religious leaders in Nigeria wearing the garbs of political activists
The Contributions and Challenges of Ramadan Tafsir Traditions in Ila-Orangun, Osun State (1985-2023)
Abstract
The Month of Ramadan ushers in quite a good number of meritorious acts of ibaadah. Apart from abstinence from eating and drinking, reading of the Glorious Qur’an is principally given priority over other acts of ibaadah. To foster proper understanding of the contents of the Glorious Qur’an which was revealed during the month, Tafsir sessions are held in virtually all Muslim Communities. In Osun State in general and Ila-Orangun in particular, Tafsir sessions are held at various mosques at in various times. The objective of this paper is to have an overview of the various developments in the main Tafsir session in Ila-Orangun with a view to exposing innovations being introduced into the clan in recent time, as well as the contributions and challenges it faces. Qualitative research method was adopted with reliability on archival materials sourced primarily and secondarily. The paper found out that the Tafsir session in Ila-Orangun has become an avenue for promoting virtues of Islam among the youths and as well a source of revenue generation for the Muslim Community. The recommended a serene environment for the conduct of Tafsir in the town and reduction of side attractions which have nothing to do with Tafsir session.
Keywords: Contribution, Ila-Orangun, Mufassirun, Ramadan and Tafsir
GLOBALIZATION AND AFRICAN CULTURE IN THE TEACHING AND LEARNING OF FRENCH AS A SECOND OFFICIAL LANGUAGE IN NIGERIA.
Abstract
French language has been in existence as far back as the 6th Century. It is ancient as the world itself. The language is foreign, widely accepted and spoken by native speakers and foreigners all over the globe. French is a beautiful language, well loved by all races. There is no continent in the world where its speakers cannot be found, therefore, the importance of French language as a medium of communication cannot be over emphasized. Based on this, globalization has turned the entire world into a global village through scientific and technological innovation which is capable of enhancing the teaching and learning of French. Besides, African culture is dynamic, ever-changing and ready to accommodate foreign culture. Previous studies on challenges and opportunities of globalization and African culture have been carried out extensively but with little attention paid to their impacts on the teaching and learning French as a second official language in Nigeria. This paper is therefore designed to examine their relevance on French language with a view to determining future prospects on Nigerian youths. The study adopts cultural hybridity as a theoretical framework that helps to understand the functional nature of globalization and African culture. It also adopts close reading techniques as a methodology which gives us the opportunity to examine critically the essence of cross-cultural interactions in global world. This presentation examines the concept of globalization and African culture. It discusses the importance of French language. It analyses the positive and negative impact of globalization on African culture in teaching and learning of French as a second official language in Nigeria. Finally, it states the factors militating against the growth of French in Nigeria and the practical solution to its growth. The paper concludes that the importance of French cannot be over emphasised given the large number of speakers globally and also considering its growing impacts on education, culture & civilization & science & technology.
Keywords: Globalization, culture, learning, teaching, language and civilization
Exploring The Uses of Arabic Language in Nigeria Broadcast Media:Prospects and Challenges.
Abstract:
This study investigates the impact and challenges of the Arabic language in Nigeria broadcast media in southwestern Nigeria. This language is historically linked to Islamic scholarship and religious practices from the time immemorial in this part of the country. It continues to hold cultural and religious significance, particularly among Muslim communities. However, its role in broadcast media is not usually heartened due to competition with dominant languages like English and Yoruba. This research examines the presence of Arabic language in various media platforms, including radio, television, social media, and religious broadcasts, also analyzing its influence on religious discourse, education, and cultural preservation. The study also explores the tenacity of the language as a world-rated language of communication, but with the limited media professionals that possessed the required proficiency in Arabic in this region. Descriptive and Analytical method would be implored in giving needed analysis in justifying the available facts. Findings reveal that while Arabic remains a key medium for religious and educational purposes, its broader integration into broadcast media is hindered by linguistic, sociocultural, and technological barriers. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics of language use in the region’s media landscape and offers recommendations for enhancing Arabic\u27s role in broadcast media communication in southwestern Nigeria, for its capability to be used as a medium to reach out to people for dissemination of information.
Keywords: Exploring, Arabic language, Broadcast media, Prospects, Challenges
An Assessment of Moral and Ethical Challenges in Modern Private Arabic Schools in Southwest Nigeria
This study focuses on the critical examination of the recent moral and ethical challenge in modern private Arabic schools in Southwest Nigeria. Moral decadence in Nigeria has been a matter of concern in all sectors of the society, which has resulted in the deterioration of societal norms and values. It is worrisome in recent time in Southwest Nigeria to note that the modern Arabic schools that are supposed to be moral and academic oriented based have been associated with social vices. Students are currently involved in various acts of immorality that contradict the Qur’anic teachings. A descriptive research design was adopted with the use of a quantitative approach. Library materials and structured questionnaire was used to collect data from respondents and Likert scale was used for data analysis. A total number of fifty (50) Mu’alim (teachers) were drawn from the various Arabic schools. The study revealed that there are many forms of decadence among modern Arabic schools in Southwest Nigeria, the causes of the decadence were revealed as well as the possible strategies for restoring the problem. The study concluded with a set of recommendations and suggestions to ameliorate the impunity in the school’s system, among others, that parents and Ustadh/teachers should be encouraged to take an active role in their students’ lives and provide guidance and support in their moral development. It is further recommended that teachers should always undergo regular professional training and workshops to enhance their knowledge and skills in impacting knowledge to students.KeywordsEthics, moral, immorality, teacher, modern Arabic School, Southwes
Brand Appeal and Marketing Performance of Instant Noodles Products in Osun State, Nigeria
The modern consumer goods market has grown to be highly competitive; brand appeal plays a pivotal role in shaping consumer choice and driving product success. This study investigates the influence of brand appeal on the marketing performance of instant noodles products in Osun State, Nigeria. Using a survey design, data were collected from 418 consumers across the state. The study examined three key brand elements: brand name, brand packaging, and brand association. Findings indicate that all three variables are statistically significant and positively affect customer patronage. The model’s R² value of 0.598 suggests that approximately 60% of the variation in customer patronage can be explained by these brand elements combined, reflecting a high explanatory power. Additionally, the F-statistic of 24.380 confirms the overall model’s statistical significance. The study underscores that while all elements are influential, packaging design and quality should be prioritized, followed by consistent advertising and brand image management. Based on the findings, it is recommended that manufacturers enhance their branding strategies by investing in distinctive brand names and engaging packaging that clearly communicates product value. Strengthening brand associations can further boost consumer loyalty and sustain market competitiveness.KeywordsBrand appeal, marketing performance, Instant Noodles, brand packaging, brand associatio
AN APPRAISAL OF YORUBA PEOPLE’S QUEST FOR SELF-DETERMINATION WITHIN THE CONTEXTS OF NIGERIA’S CONSTITUTION AND INTERNATIONAL LAW
Self-determination is one of the core ideas in international law it gives people the right to shape their own political future and work towards their economic and social progress. This paper takes a closer look at how this right applies under international law, focusing on the Yoruba Nation\u27s movement in Nigeria. It digs into the legal roots of self-determination, drawing from major international documents like the UN Charter, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. The study examines the historical, political, and socio-economic forces driving the Yoruba Nation movement and determines whether these circumstances satisfy the external self-determinism criteria or are grounds for secession based on international law. It also interrogates the question of whether notwithstanding outright prohibition of succession under the Nigerian constitutional framework, recourse to these international instruments can provide the needed justification to back the agitation for Yoruba Nation. Through analysis of precedents established outside Nigeria concerning the actual provisions of the constitution and political conditions, it comes out in the paper that there exist tensions between self-determination and territorial integrity. It concludes that although the Yoruba agitation is driven by fundamental disappointment with the manner of governance and allocation of resources in the Nigerian federation, there are only a few legal bases in international laws on the possibility of secession by one part out of unilateralism. The demand for greater autonomy and restructuring can, however, fall within the acceptable limit of internal self-determination, providing a possible way of resolving ethnic grievances in the Nigerian federation.
Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination across Five Selected Roadside Marketed Fruits in Erin-Osun, Osun State, Nigeria
Abstract
Background: The contamination of fruits with heavy metals is a growing concern due to potential health risks associated with their consumption. Objectives: This study assessed the level of heavy metals in five selected (apple, orange, African cherry, pineapple and watermelon) fruits marketed by the roadsides in Erin-Osun, Irepodun Local Government, Osun State. Methodology: Data were collected using a well-structured questionnaire, and five fruits were randomly collected from two different (Elerin and Oke-Ila) markets in triplicates for 30 samples, digested, and analysed for heavy metals using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Descriptive and inferential statistics were adopted for the laboratory gathered data to gather frequency, mean, standard deviation, and separated means. Furthermore, multivariate (precisely Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and Principal Component) analyses were conducted. Results: The study found that most vendors sourced their fruits from local farms, used fertilisers or pesticides, stored and transported fruits in baskets, and had positive views about the safety of fruits sold by roadside vendors. The results showed that the Zn-level ranged from 0. 10 mg/kg in Apple to 0.35 mg/kg in orange. The heavy metal mean values in some fruit samples were within, while others exceeded WHO permissible limits for safe levels in food. Contaminants of concern were As, Cr, Zn and Pb. Conclusion/ Recommendations: The study revealed that heavy metal levels in the fruits, particularly As and Cr, could pose health risks to consumers. The findings suggested continuous monitoring and regulation of heavy metals in food by adhering to the dietary standards for human health safety
The Role of Broadcast Media in Creating Awareness on Environmental Pollution and Advancing Sustainable Development in Osun State, Nigeria
Background: Environmental pollution poses a significant challenge for industrialised societies, including African nations like Nigeria, where the Osun River faces severe contamination threats. This river, vital for the economic and agricultural sustenance of millions and integral to the Osun-Osogbo sacred grove, is impacted by lead poisoning from mining activities. Objective: The review is set to explore the role of broadcast stations in communicating Osun River pollution arising from lead poisoning in the state. Methodology: The study adopted theoretical frameworks of social responsibility and development media theories to examine the role of broadcast media in communicating Osun River pollution and its implications for sustainable development. The qualitative research design and in-depth interviews of 12 broadcast media professionals from federal, state, and private stations were used in the collection of data and analysis. Results: Findings revealed that while media serve informational, educational, and entertainment functions, environmental news receives minimal attention. Coverage of environmental health issues, particularly Osun River contamination, is sporadic, limiting public sensitisation and behavioural change communication. Additionally, the study established that broadcast stations prioritise political, economic, and entertainment content over environmental health, underutilising their platform to amplify critical pollution issues. This gap hinders public awareness of the health risks posed by the river’s contamination. Conclusion/Recommendations:By leveraging their social responsibility role, media outlets can enhance public understanding of the advantages and drawbacks of environmental pollution, fostering greater awareness and action toward sustainable development in Osun State and beyond. The study recommends that broadcast media intensify coverage of environmental issues, produce special programmes to educate the audience on the Osun River’s pollution, and highlight the health implications and broader environmental impacts
L’EFFET DU GOOGLE CLASSROOM DANS UNE CLASSE DE FLE CHEZ LES FRANCISANTS BABCOCKIENS
The Google Classroom is a form of using information and communication technology in education (ICTE) to enhance the quality of teaching process. As the teaching-learning of French as a foreign language (FLL) has taken a new dimension all over the world especially in the 21st century, Babcock University is not short-sighted in incorporating this effective innovation into the educational arena of its citadel to invigorate the understanding of the content of the French class among the target learners. Noting that the learning of French becomes mandatory in the university for learners across all departments, the researchers intend to highlight, in this paper, the effect of applying Google Classroom platform in order to render the activities of an online French class easier. Jean Piaget\u27s cognitive development theory was adopted to facilitate learner’s imitation, repetition and competition towards appropriating the target language. This practice, without mincing words, will increase the linguistic performance of learners in all ramifications because each of these learners will be inspired to contribute their quota in order to enable the language facilitators correct the lexical errors by providing the acceptable version. The data collected in the platform will be evaluated using a qualitative method. Recommendations provided at the end of this paper will guide future researchers on ways to enhance the quality of their pedagogy as findings reveal that learners encounter omissive, additive, substitutive errors etc