THE EFFECT OF CROSS‐CULTURAL INFLUENCES ON SKULL MINING IN YORUBA STATES: A CASE OF CULTURAL EXCHANGES IN OGUN STATE

THE EFFECT OF CROSS‐CULTURAL INFLUENCES ON SKULL MINING IN YORUBA STATES: A CASE OF CULTURAL EXCHANGES IN OGUN STATE

Background of the Study

Cross-cultural influences, resulting from globalization and increased interactions between different societies, have led to significant changes in the cultural landscape of many communities, including the Yoruba people in Ogun State. These influences come from various sources, including global religious movements, technological advancements, and intercultural exchanges that challenge traditional practices and beliefs. Skull mining, a practice linked to Yoruba spiritual rituals involving the exhumation of human skulls for ritualistic purposes, is one such practice that has been affected by cross-cultural dynamics.

 

While Yoruba communities, particularly in Ogun State, maintain strong ties to their traditional cultural and spiritual practices, the spread of global norms and values—such as human rights, secularism, and modern law enforcement—has created tension with practices like skull mining. This study will explore how cross-cultural influences have affected the practice of skull mining in Ogun State, focusing on the role of cultural exchanges in shaping both the persistence and transformation of this illegal practice.

 

Statement of the Problem

Skull mining continues to persist in certain parts of Ogun State, despite the influence of cross-cultural exchanges that have brought about changes in societal values and attitudes. While globalization has led to greater awareness of human rights and legal protections, traditional beliefs that justify skull mining remain strong in some Yoruba communities. This research seeks to examine how cultural exchanges have influenced skull mining practices, with a particular focus on the interplay between traditional beliefs and external cultural forces that challenge these practices.

 

Objectives of the Study

To assess the impact of cross-cultural influences on skull mining practices in Ogun State.

 

To explore how cultural exchanges, including exposure to global norms and values, have influenced local perceptions of skull mining.

 

To evaluate the role of traditional beliefs in sustaining skull mining despite cross-cultural influences.

 

Research Questions

How have cross-cultural influences affected skull mining practices in Ogun State?

 

What role do cultural exchanges, such as exposure to global norms, play in the persistence or transformation of skull mining?

 

How do traditional Yoruba beliefs interact with external cultural influences in the context of skull mining in Ogun State?

 

Significance of the Research

This research is significant because it will shed light on the role of cross-cultural influences in transforming or sustaining traditional practices like skull mining. Understanding how globalization and cultural exchanges interact with local beliefs will provide insights into how illegal practices, such as skull mining, can be addressed through both cultural sensitivity and legal frameworks. The findings will be valuable for policymakers, community leaders, and law enforcement agencies working to combat skull mining while respecting cultural traditions.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Research

This study will focus on Ogun State, exploring the impact of cross-cultural influences on skull mining practices. It will not extend to other regions or forms of ritualistic crime. The research is limited by the availability of data on cultural exchanges and the willingness of participants to discuss sensitive topics like illegal rituals.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Skull Mining: The illegal exhumation and trafficking of human skulls for spiritual or ritualistic purposes.

 

Cross-Cultural Influences: The impact of cultural exchanges, including the spread of global values, practices, and norms, on local traditions and beliefs.

 

Cultural Exchanges: The sharing and blending of cultural practices, ideas, and values between different societies, often through globalization or migration.

 

List of References

Adenuga, A. O., Aborisade, R. A., & Atere, A. A. (2024). Stemming the tide of violent conflicts in southwest Nigeria: The role of Yoruba indigenous security system. Fuoye Journal of Criminology and Security Studies, 3(2).