Religious syncretism exhibits blending of two or more religious belief systems into a new system, or the incorporation into a religious tradition of beliefs from unrelated traditions. It is contrasted by the idea of multiple religious belonging and polytheism, respectively.
The main points of contention between the most strongest 19th century West African States,13 (Sokoto and Borno) were:
-Whether aiding the Hausa states against the forces of the Sokoto Sultanate by Borno constituted unbelief or not.
-If so, would that be a sufficient reason for the Sokoto Sulatanate to declare Jihad against Borno?
-Whether such practices as corruption and syncretism etc. can lead to unbelief and render a country guilty for attack by another?
The primary materials used in this discussion were correspondences compiled by Sultan Muhammad Bello in his book Infaqul Maisur.