RELIGION

This study examines the concept of lexical relations in Ibibio, a Lower Cross language spoken in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. It explores the semantic interconnections that exist among lexical items in the language, focusing on the relationships of synonymy, antonymy, polysemy, hyponymy, and meronymy. The study is anchored on the structuralist theoretical framework, which posits that meaning is relational and that words derive significance from their place within a linguistic system. Data were gathered through descriptive and analytic methods, drawing from native speakers’ intuitions and examples found in natural Ibibio usage. The analysis reveals that lexical relations in Ibibio are context-dependent and culturally motivated rather than absolute, reflecting deep connections between linguistic structures and sociocultural realities. For instance, synonymous words in Ibibio are often differentiated by pragmatic and situational nuances, while antonyms may display complementary or gradable features. The study further shows that polysemy in Ibibio is influenced by metaphorical and metonymic extensions, and that hierarchical relations like hyponymy and meronymy play a crucial role in lexical categorization and meaning organization. Overall, the research contributes to the understanding of Ibibio semantics, highlighting the interdependence between language, thought, and culture. It also underscores the need for more descriptive studies of African languages to enrich the global body of linguistic knowledge

Religion has been a powerful force shaping world politics throughout history.1 Whether through the influence of religious institutions, the actions of religious leaders, the great influence which religion has on man’s thought process or the beliefs and
practices of ordinary individuals, it has played a central role in shaping political systems, conflicts, and alliances.2 From the ancient world to the present day, religion has been used to justify wars and conquests, to mobilize social movements, and to define cultural identity.3 At times, religion has been a source of division and conflict, fueling sectarian violence and intolerance.4 At other times, it has been a force for peace and reconciliation, inspiring social justice movements and promoting interfaith dialogue.5 However, some are of the view that politics and religion should be separated. Thus, Milliard Fillmore, the
13 th President of the United States, stated that, “Church and State should be separate, not only in form, but fact- religion and politics should not be mingled”.6