ISLAMIC CULTURE AND THE TRADITION OF GANAGANA IN NORTH-CENTRAL NIGERIA: A QUALITATIVE PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Islam is a major religion in West Africa. It came to northern Nigeria in the eleventh
century and was established mainly in the state capitals of the region by the sixteenth
century, spreading into the scenery and toward the middle belt uplands. Islam was
however stopped by the confrontation of local peoples in some regions. This study adopts
qualitative methods using oral interview to explore the influence of Islamic culture on
Ganagana people of North Nigeria. The study reveals that in spite of the fact the coming
of Islam was resisted by the Ganagana people, it has considerably influence their culture
and tradition across the North-Central of Nigeria. The informant reveals that till date
some Ganagana land Muslims still adhered to the cultural and traditional belief in the
devotion to Demons (Jinn) that they possess power and can render assistance, cure
diseases and can as well solve their social-economic problems. It was also discovered that
there are some prints of cultural practices observed along with Islamic teachings, e.g.
belief in veneration of demon (Jennu), spirits and practice of divination. In the light of
above, the study recommends that the Imams and traditional rulers be encouraged to
preach on effects of shirkh (polytheism), Islamic schools should be built across the
localities in Ganagana and finally government should intensify sensitization programs on
the Islamic doctrines.