NON-VIOLENCE IN MARTIN LUTHER KING’S: A PANACEA TO SOCIAL CULTURAL VIOLENCE IN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study is to examine Martin Luther King’s non-violence theory, and propose ways in which this theory can serve as a possible solution to the problem of social-cultural violence in Nigeria. Nigeria as a country has recorded several massive violence springing forth from conflict in religious, cultural and social beliefs and practices. Some of these beliefs and values justify violence while others do not. Hence, this has constituted great challenges in Nigeria. The concept of violence is that which cannot be over-emphasized and there is an undying need to create a resolution to the problem. But what is social cultural violence and to what extent can King’s theory of non-violence remedy these issues? To address this question, this work adopts the method of critical analysis to argue that humanity must harmonize its cultural beliefs for a more integrative cultural relation. It affirms that King’s non-violent theory is instrumental for curbing social cultural violence in Nigeria and Africa at large.