EXPLORING RELIGIO-TRADITIONAL ETHOS TOWARDS SEXUAL IMMORALITY AMONG THE TIV OF CENTRAL NIGERIA

Abstract

The Tiv people of Central Nigeria have a profound cultural legacy characterised by a framework of traditional principles that regulate all facets of life, including sexual conduct. This dissertation examines the religious and customary attitudes against sexual immorality
among the Tiv people. It analyses the conventional and cultural standards, principles, and practices that influence their perspectives and conduct around sexuality. This paper examines the intricacies of Tiv religio-traditional beliefs regarding sexual conduct, the repercussions of violating these norms, and the transformation of these norms due to modernisation and external influences, utilising a utilitarian theoretical framework and cultural studies. The study revealed that sexual deviances in Tiv land result in consequences like as social stigma, reputational damage, and slander, which in severe instances may culminate in divorce, injury, or even death. Research indicates that the Tiv people employed conventional mechanisms to regulate sexual behaviour, which were deeply embedded in cultural norms and religious practices aimed at maintaining moral purity and social order. The study indicates that contemporary factors, including media, education, urbanisation, and globalisation, are transforming attitudes towards sexual morality among the Tiv people of Central Nigeria.