Author(s):
Dr. Samuwilu Alade Owoyemi, alade.owoyemi@oouagoiwoye.edu.ng samuwilualade2016@yahoo.com, 08064488812

Abstract: In recent times, there has been persistence and insistence of a group of Nigerians clamouring for disintegration and restructuring in Nigeria. The clarion call suggests that unity and stability of Nigeria are being threatened. In fact, the vituperations, spurious and sinister comments of some individuals and groups over the cooperate existence of Nigeria need urgent attention to address fundamental issues to avert disunity of Nigeria. Interestingly, the unity of Nigerian Muslims as one great bloc of the Nigerian nation is thus equally being threatened. Realizing the fact that one of the cardinal teachings of Islam is unity and indivisibility of mankind, the paper critically examines factors that constitute obstacles to achieving unity among Nigerian Muslims with a view to using it as a panacea to addressing Nigeria’s imminent disintegration, using the analytical method. The findings of the study reveal that proliferation of Muslim organizations and societies, doctrinal/ideological differences, leadership tussle, ethnic/tribal affiliations and diverse political interests are among the obstacles threatening the unity of Muslims in Nigeria. Realizing the fact that the cooperate existence of Nigeria as indivisible country is preferable to its disintegration, the paper, based on Islamic teachings on unity, offers a list of recommendations to achieve not only unity among Nigerian Muslims but also to build a truly united country towards national integration and development.