CHRISTIANITY DISPUTES AGAINST AWKA TRADITIONAL RELIGION 1889-1904

Abstract

This work research digs into the historical Christianity disputes against Awka traditional religion, with a focus on Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State. It examines the religious conflicts that occurred in Awka from 1889-1904. The study utilizes data collected from primary and secondary sources, including oral interviews, textbooks, journals, and magazines. It provides an overview of the brief history of Awka, its people, and their traditions. Additionally, the research explores the factors that led to the arrival of missionaries in Awka and highlights their significant and contribution to the community, in order to Christianize Awka. Furthermore, it investigates the role of Awka elders in defending their traditional beliefs against outside influences, as they perceived the traditional way of worship as the true form of homage to “Chukwu”. The study also reveals how these historical disputes continue to influence present-day religious practices, with some individuals or families practicing both Christianity and traditional beliefs in an attempt to reconcile conflicting spiritual allegiances.