What belief do Nigerians commonly hold regarding the cause of illness?

Nigerians commonly believe that illness can originate from interpersonal harm or witchcraft. This perspective reflects a broader understanding of health that encompasses not only the physical body but also social relationships and spiritual dimensions. In many cultures within Nigeria, including various ethnic groups, there's a strong belief that illness can be caused by negative intentions or actions from others, whether they be from jealousy, malice, or cultural practices tied to witchcraft. This belief highlights the interconnectedness of social and health issues, illustrating that health is not merely a physiological state but also a reflection of one's social interactions and community dynamics.

The other beliefs listed do exist in some contexts but do not capture the prevalent viewpoint of illness as being influenced by interpersonal dynamics. For instance, seeing illness solely as a physical ailment ignores the multifaceted causes of health issues that many cultures, including Nigerian, recognize. Similarly, attributing illness merely to natural disasters or luck simplifies the complex interplay of social, spiritual, and physical factors that many Nigerians believe influence health outcomes. Therefore, the understanding that illness can stem from interpersonal harm or witchcraft is a critical aspect of the cultural framework surrounding health in Nigeria.