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In this paper I examine the relationship between involuntary resettlement and traditional religious systems. I observe that development agents often ignore and/or perceive traditional religious systems as negative impacts on resettlement. I argue that the common denial by resettlement agents to compensate for the loss of traditional religious sites not only ignores the socio-cultural significance of the sites but also hinders the possibility of successful resettlement, increasing social disarticulation. I argue that traditional religious systems need to be understood as potentially positive avenues that promote successful resettlement. I use a case study of the involuntary resettlement of the Longuda of Adamawa State, Nigeria, especially as related to the cirha shrine of the village of Banjiram to highlight the discussion.

Examines the relationship between involuntary resettlement and traditional religious systems. Objective of development anthropology; Detail on resettlement; Resettlement and compensation; Summary.