Finding Space in Ibadan: The Linguistic Dilemma of Igbo Children in the City

Reading Matrix, Inc. University of South Florida Polytechnic, College of Human and Social Sciences, Division of Education, 3433 Winter Lake Road LMD 8038, Lakeland, FL 33805. Tel: 863-667-7712; Fax: 863-667-7098; e-mail: [email protected]; Web site: https://www.readingmatrix.com/

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12

African Languages; Self Concept; Sociolinguistics; Diachronic Linguistics; Ethnic Groups; Migrants; Language Role; Social Discrimination; Language Usage; Language Attitudes; Foreign Countries; Metropolitan Areas; Adolescents; Young Adults; Second Language Learning; Barriers; Elementary Secondary Education; Second Language Instruction; Indigenous Populations; Safety; Social Isolation

1533-242X

Although the Igbo are one of the most widely travelled people in Nigeria, little is known about the sociolinguistic impact of migration (international or internal) on their language. Based on interview data collected from 24 Igbo youth in Ibadan, this study explores the space available for young Igbo migrants and the role of language in accessing the space. The Igbo youth learn Yoruba to enable them find space in Ibadan and its environs. The complexities of locating space compel some of them to sometimes disguise as Yoruba in order to gain acceptance and favourable perception. However, the need to maintain their Igbo identity and find space in Igboland whenever possible propels them to also learn to speak Igbo. As long as discriminatory citizenship is practised in the country, language and ethnicity will remain crucial in the search for space by settlers.

As Provided

2023

EJ1385996