Islamic Appraisal of Syncretic Practices among Muslims in Lafia and Akwanga L.G.A of Nasarawa State

Different disciplines have explored the history of Islam in Nasarawa State which started in the early 18th century. However, the impact of the practice of Syncretism among the Muslims has not been systematically studied. Therefore, this paper examines the extent of the involvement of Muslims in the practice of syncretism in Nasarawa State, with a view to assessing the impact of TawhTd on them. In agreement with previous researches, this study notes thatthe practice of syncretism is still in existence amidst the Muslims of Nasarawa State. Field work carried out in the Lafia and Akwanga Local Government Areas of Nasarawa State indicated a high level of practices of religious syncretism among the Muslims. It also revealed that certain worldly factors of this contemporary age which include emphasis on job promotion, love charm, monogamy, economic prosperity and adversity, lack of employment, as well as ignorance are responsible for the widespread of this phenomenon. The paper recommends that Sorcery, divination, sacrifice to idols and spirits, magic and other forms of idolatry practices are reminiscences of African Traditional Religions which Islam has come to abolish. Islam has come as exhortation, a healing for the diseases of the (human) hearts, a mercy and guidance for those who believe. Therefore, Muslims should jettison idolatry practices and repose genuine faith in Allah, the only Worshippable being, and follow the Sunnah of the noble Prophet (SAW). Islamic groups or organizations engaging in Da’wah activities should intensify effort in preaching the creed of TawhTd among others. Relentless and ceaseless religious campaigns and awareness should be mounted by Muslim scholars everywhere in the villages and towns of Nasarawa State with a view to making the Muslim syncreticsrealise the evil effects of syncretism. They could be made to realise that Islam is a perfect and pure religion whichintegrates the spiritual and mundane aspects of life through the concept of TawhTd, which refers all matters of faith and worship to Allah (SWT) alone for the solution of all kinds of problems that may face human existence.