Dynamics of Religious Conversion and Apostasy Among the Tiv Muslims of Benue State, Nigeria: Causes, Consequences, and Community Responses

This study examines the phenomenon of apostasy (riddah) among Tiv Muslims in Ukum and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas of Benue State, North Central Nigeria. Employing a qualitative research methodology with historical and descriptive approaches, the research investigated the causes, manifestations, and consequences of religious apostasy within a minority Muslim community existing alongside dominant Christian and indigenous religious traditions. Findings reveal that apostasy among Tiv Muslims stems from a complex interplay of factors including insufficient Islamic religious knowledge, socioeconomic pressures, cultural stigmatization, familial conflicts, materialistic expectations, and security threats. The study identified that Muslim organizations in the research areas are financially constrained, limiting their capacity for effective da'awah activities and community support. The research contributes to understanding religious dynamics in pluralistic Nigerian societies and proposes comprehensive solutions including enhanced Islamic education, improved security measures, interfaith dialogue initiatives, and targeted community support programs to address apostasy challenges and strengthen Muslim community resilience in minority contexts.