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Journal : LingLit Journal

Suffix Variations in Verbal Constructions of Dialects in Oyi Local Government Area, Anambra State Amaka Yvonne Okafor; Muhammad Ridwan
LingLit Journal Scientific Journal for Linguistics and Literature Vol 5 No 2 (2024): Linglit Journal: Scientific Journal of Linguistics and Literature, June
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR-Publisher)

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/linglit.v5i2.1150

Abstract

This study investigates the linguistic landscape of Oyi Local Government Area in Anambra State, Nigeria, focusing on suffix variations in verbal constructions across its diverse dialects. The research documents and analyzes how suffixes are used in past tense, future tense, perfective aspect, and negation constructions in the dialects spoken in Awkuzu, Nteje, Ogbunike, Nkwelle Ezunaka, and Umunya. A descriptive and comparative linguistic approach was employed, involving fieldwork and structured interviews with native speakers from these towns. The data collected were transcribed and analyzed using phonological and morphological frameworks to identify patterns and variations. Through a detailed analysis, it was found that past tense constructions generally featured a common prefix and root verb across most towns, with Umunya notably employing a distinct suffix pattern. Future tense constructions relied heavily on auxiliary verbs, with towns like Awkuzu and Ogbunike using ‘ga-’ while Nkwelle Ezunaka utilized ‘na-’. In perfective constructions, a consistent suffix was observed, but root verbs and immediate suffixes varied slightly, as seen with Nkwelle Ezunaka’s use of ‘je-ve’ compared to others using ‘je-be’. Negation constructions revealed the most diversity, with Awkuzu and Nteje using the standard suffix ‘-ghi’, while Umunya, Ogbunike, and Nkwelle Ezunaka employed distinct negation markers like ‘-ra’, ‘-rϙ’, and ‘-zi’, respectively. These findings highlight the rich linguistic diversity within the region and underscore the importance of documenting and preserving these dialectal variations.
Satire and Socio-Political Critique in Wole Soyinka's Opera Wonyosi: A Study of Corruption and Military Mal-Administration in Post-Colonial Nigeria Alice Blessing Ogundiya; Muhammad Ridwan
LingLit Journal Scientific Journal for Linguistics and Literature Vol 5 No 2 (2024): Linglit Journal: Scientific Journal of Linguistics and Literature, June
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR-Publisher)

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/linglit.v5i2.1153

Abstract

This research examines Wole Soyinka's play Opera Wonyosi through the lens of postcolonial theory, focusing on themes of corruption and military mal-administration in post-independence Nigeria. Adopting a qualitative research methodology, this study employs content analysis to evaluate the play’s narrative structure, character development, and satirical elements. Ania Loomba's postcolonial theory serves as the theoretical framework, providing a nuanced understanding of the socio-political critique embedded in the text. By analyzing the enduring impact of colonial power structures and the dynamics of authority in postcolonial societies, the research uncovers the ways in which Soyinka critiques the pervasive corruption and moral decay perpetuated by military regimes. The study also explores the complexities of identity and resistance as depicted through the play’s characters, particularly highlighting how postcolonial identities are shaped by both indigenous and colonial influences. Through Soyinka’s sharp satire, the research underscores the grotesque alliance between political leaders and organized crime, illustrating the systemic dysfunction and social decay that ensue. The findings reveal that Opera Wonyosi not only mirrors the socio-political realities of Nigeria but also resonates with broader postcolonial struggles against oppression and injustice. Ultimately, this study contributes to the understanding of Soyinka’s work as a powerful cultural critique and a call for social reform, reinforcing its significance within the canon of postcolonial literature.
Citizenship Education as a Vehicle for Nation Building: Perspective of Nigeria Citizens Shittu Lukman Olayinka; Muhammad Ridwan
LingLit Journal Scientific Journal for Linguistics and Literature Vol 5 No 3 (2024): Linglit Journal: Scientific Journal of Linguistics and Literature, September
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR-Publisher)

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/linglit.v5i3.1167

Abstract

This study investigated the role of citizenship education as a vehicle for nation building: perspective of Nigeria citizens. The study was guided by four objectives and also answered four research questions. The study used social constructivist theory propounded by Lev Vygotsky in the mid 20th century. The study employed a cross-sectional survey research design targeting Nigerian citizens, including students, civil servants, public servants, policymakers, business people, parents, politicians, and traditional rulers. A sample of 400 respondents was selected through stratified sampling to enhance representativeness, precision, and reliability, particularly for studies on citizenship education and nation-building. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire developed by the researcher, comprising demographic questions (Section A) and 30 items under four subheadings on a four-point Likert scale (Section B). Content validity was ensured through expert review, and reliability was confirmed via split-half method, yielding a reliability coefficient of 0.87. Data collection was conducted online via Google Forms, and analysis was performed using descriptive statistics through mean and standard deviation computed in SPSS version 25.0. The analysis revealed that citizens have various and varying perception towards nation building and the study also identify corruption, tribalism, political instability, ethnic sentiments, and religious conflict as significant challenges to nation-building in Nigeria among others. The study recommended among other things that, Nigerian government and educational institutions intensify efforts to integrate comprehensive citizenship education into all levels of the educational curriculum. And the curriculum should emphasize national unity, democratic values, and the importance of inclusiveness in governance.
Naming the Days: The Influence of Ancient Astronomy on Modern Religious and Cultural Practices Belay Sitotaw Goshu; Muhammad Ridwan
LingLit Journal Scientific Journal for Linguistics and Literature Vol 5 No 3 (2024): Linglit Journal: Scientific Journal of Linguistics and Literature, September
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR-Publisher)

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/linglit.v5i3.1168

Abstract

A rich interplay of astronomy, religion, and mythology is reflected in the naming of days across cultures, providing insights into how societies organized time and perceived the universe. This study focuses on Ethiopia's distinctive calendar and religious influence while examining the cultural importance of weekday naming customs in other countries. The goal is to scrutinize how astronomical observations and antiquated customs from Mesopotamia, Egypt, Asia, and Ethiopia combine to influence modern timekeeping. This study tracks the development of day-naming customs throughout multiple civilizations by analyzing historical documents, linguistic trends, and religious writings using a comparative cultural analysis approach. The findings demonstrate that while many cultures, including Ethiopians, name their days after solar or lunar events, religious beliefs also play a major role, particularly in Ethiopian Orthodox Christian traditions. Day naming is a valuable tool for tracking time and a representation of cultural identity, according to the study, which finds that day name is heavily influenced by mythology and religion. It is suggested that conventional timekeeping methods be preserved via digital preservation and teaching and that interdisciplinary study be encouraged to delve deeper into these relationships.
Grammatical Tone Pattern in Ùhànmì Rokeeb Tunde Afeez; Muhammad Ridwan
LingLit Journal Scientific Journal for Linguistics and Literature Vol 5 No 4 (2024): Linglit Journal: Scientific Journal of Linguistics and Literature, December
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR-Publisher)

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/linglit.v5i4.1322

Abstract

This study explores the grammatical tone pattern in Ùhànmì, a speech form that belongs to a sub-group of Edoid language family spoken in Ìṣùà-Àkókó of Òǹdó State, Nigeria. The study employs qualitative research method. Data collection was carried out using Ibadan 400 word- list, and was also modified to include sentences in the speech form. The data was sourced from native speakers of the language whose ages range between 50 and 70. The informants were asked questions and their responses in the speech form were recorded, translated and transcribed for accuracy. The study adopts the framework of autosegmental-phonology for its analysis. In the study, specific areas are examined with a view to shed light on the tone system of the speech form. The areas that are investigated include the basic tones in the speech form, functions of tone, and tonal processes in the speech form. Findings from the study demonstrate that Ùhànmì operates four basic tone levels; these are high, mid, low and falling tones. Tone is a unique feature in Ùhànmì, quite distinct from segmental feature. The study reveals that these tones distinguish meaning of segmentally identical words. The study also shows that tones play a distinctive grammatical function in present and past tense. Tonal processes such as tone simplification, tone raising, tone elision, and tone polarization are observed in the speech form. The research is motivated by the need to prevent the speech form from extinction. The study also stems from the missing gap in the knowledge as there is a paucity of publication on the speech form. The research contributes to knowledge in the field of phonology.
The Theatrics of Religious Gymnastic in White Garment Church; Wole Soyinka’s The Trials of Brother Jero’s Performance as Directed by Ade Adeseke in Focus Josiah Adewale Apalowo; Muhammad Ridwan
LingLit Journal Scientific Journal for Linguistics and Literature Vol 6 No 2 (2025): Linglit Journal: Scientific Journal of Linguistics and Literature, June
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR-Publisher)

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/linglit.v6i2.1354

Abstract

Religion in Africa functions not only as a system of spiritual beliefs but also as a cultural performance deeply embedded in social practices. In many African Indigenous churches, particularly the white garment churches—religious expression frequently transcends conventional worship through stylised bodily movements, choreographed dances, and the incorporation of secular songs. While these practices are captivating and energising, they often lack explicit spiritual significance and instead serve to entertain, unify congregants, and cultivate a shared religious identity. This study critically examines Ade Adeseke’s stage direction of Wole Soyinka’s The Trials of Brother Jero as a lens through which to explore the performative dynamics of religious expression within these church contexts. By employing performance theory as its analytical framework, the study interrogates the intersection of theatricality and spirituality, revealing how certain churches employ spectacle and performative strategies not solely for worship but as mechanisms of attraction, inclusion, and socio-cultural resonance. The research adopts a qualitative methodology, with data gathered through content analysis of both the dramatic text and relevant performance recordings. Findings suggest that Adeseke’s rendition of Soyinka’s satire offers a compelling critique of how performance can be manipulated to simulate divine presence, blur the lines between the sacred and the secular, and reinforce systems of power and deception within religious spaces. Ultimately, the study concludes that such performative elements, while engaging, often compromise the authenticity of spiritual experience, thereby transforming worship into theatrical display.
The Hidden Ontology of Language: A Structuralism Resolution to the Measurement Problem in Quantum Mechanics Belay Sitotaw Goshu; Muhammad Ridwan; Ramlan
LingLit Journal Scientific Journal for Linguistics and Literature Vol 6 No 3 (2025): Linglit Journal: Scientific Journal of Linguistics and Literature, September
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR-Publisher)

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.33258/linglit.v6i3.1437

Abstract

The quantum measurement problem continues to challenge classical ontological assumptions embedded in scientific discourse. Substantialist interpretations presume independent entities bearing definite properties, while instrumentalist approaches reduce quantum theory to predictive formalism, both retaining subject-predicate grammar that imposes classical categories onto quantum phenomena. Recent relational interpretations argue that quantum mechanics demands a fundamentally different descriptive mode, one that privileges interdependence and syntactic structure over Substantialist predication. This study explores the linguistic dimensions of quantum entanglement and measurement, drawing on the relational framework to demonstrate how entanglement manifests as a single grammatical structure rather than a causal connection between independent substances. Using QuTiP simulations, we visualized maximally entangled Bell states, reduced density matrices on Bloch spheres, Wigner functions of cat states, Fock distributions, and projective measurement statistics. Nested observer scenarios (Wigner’s friend) were modeled to contrast definite first-person reports with unitary third-person descriptions. Linguistic analysis drew on Saussurean semiotics and contemporary philosophy of physics to interpret visual results. Findings: Reduced density matrices of entangled subsystems are maximally mixed, showing no local definite properties, visualized as vanishing Bloch vectors. Wigner functions and Fock distributions exhibit non-classical interference, while joint measurements reveal perfect correlations as syntactic unfolding rather than causal influence. Wigner’s friend simulations confirm the Friend always experiences definite outcomes, whereas Wigner’s unitary view sustains superposed predication, exposing irreconcilable descriptive frames. Quantum phenomena resist classical subject-predicate grammar; entanglement and superposition embody relational, non-substantial structures whose correlations reflect pre-existing grammatical interdependence within the quantum langue, not mysterious action-at-a-distance. Recommendation: Future interpretations should prioritize relational ontologies that dispense with substantialist premises and develop formal languages capable of expressing quantum interdependence without smuggling classical predication. Empirical tests of relational predictions and interdisciplinary work bridging quantum foundations and semiotics are strongly encouraged.
Lexical and Semantic Variations in Digital Communication among Adolescents: A Case Study of TikTok Comments Belay Sitotaw Goshu; Muhammad Ridwan
LingLit Journal Scientific Journal for Linguistics and Literature Vol 6 No 3 (2025): Linglit Journal: Scientific Journal of Linguistics and Literature, September
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR-Publisher)

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar

Abstract

Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, have become primary arenas for linguistic experimentation among adolescents, yet systematic analyses of how platform-specific affordances shape lexical and semantic innovation remains limited. This study investigated lexical and semantic variations in adolescent digital communication on TikTok, addressing three research questions concerning the types of lexical innovations, processes of semantic change, and the role of platform affordances in shaping language evolution. Methods: A mixed-methods design integrated quantitative corpus linguistics with qualitative discourse analysis. A corpus of 2,848 TikTok comments was compiled across four major trends (September–December 2024). Lexical analysis identified neologisms, graphical variations, and acronyms; semantic analysis documented broadening, narrowing, metaphoric extension, and pejoration/amelioration; platform affordances analysis examined meme-driven language and intertextual policing. Analysis revealed 15 lexical innovations with 63 occurrences across semantic categories. Neologisms (fr, bestie, delulu) and graphical variations (tryna, cuz, ion) served dual functions of efficiency and identity performance. Semantic shifts included ameliorative broadening (slay, fire), pejoration (basic, cringe), metaphoric extension (era, main character), and reclamatory usage (ghetto). Platform analysis identified 11 meme-driven phrases generating 2,848 occurrences with near-neutral sentiment, and 347 policing instances (12.2%) concentrated during rising and peak trend phases, demonstrating active semantic negotiation through definition, debate, and correction. TikTok functions as an accelerated laboratory for language change where adolescents deploy multiple mechanisms of linguistic innovation simultaneously. Platform affordances fundamentally reshape traditional sociolinguistic processes, with intertextual policing serving as the mechanism by which communities enforce emerging semantic norms. The findings extend communities of practice frameworks to algorithmically-mediated digital environments. Educators should recognize digital language as systematic innovation; lexicographers should develop protocols for documenting ephemeral platform-specific terms; platform designers should account for in-group reclamation practices; and researchers should prioritize cross-platform longitudinal studies to track whether observed innovations represent enduring change or age-graded phenomena.
Face, Power, and Digital Discourse: A Pragmatic Analysis of Politeness in Asynchronous Student-Lecturer Exchanges Belay Sitotaw Goshu; Muhammad Ridwan
LingLit Journal Scientific Journal for Linguistics and Literature Vol 6 No 3 (2025): Linglit Journal: Scientific Journal of Linguistics and Literature, September
Publisher : Britain International for Academic Research (BIAR-Publisher)

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar

Abstract

The rapid digitization of higher education has transformed student-lecturer communication, with asynchronous platforms becoming primary sites of academic interaction. However, the pragmatic dimensions of these exchanges, particularly how face and power are negotiated through politeness strategies, remain underexplored in digital contexts. This study investigates how students and lecturers manage face and negotiate power through politeness strategies in asynchronous digital exchanges, examining strategy selection across participant roles and communicative purposes. Employing a qualitative interpretive paradigm with computer-mediated discourse analysis (Herring, 2004), we analyzed 1,847 asynchronous exchanges from Blackboard Learn at Dire Dawa University, Ethiopia. Participants included 16 lecturers and 275 students across Business, Engineering, and Social Sciences. Data were coded deductively using Brown and Levinson's (1987) politeness framework and inductively for emergent digital-specific patterns. Statistical analysis included chi-square tests and odds ratios. Significant asymmetries characterized strategy selection: students predominantly employed deferential strategies (negative politeness: 36.8%; off-record: 19.1%), while lecturers favored bald on-record strategies (41.2%). Request sequences showed extensive student mitigation (hedging: 82.3%; apologetic framing: 58.7%) versus lecturer directness (bald on-record: 52.8%). Feedback followed a "sandwich structure" (opening positive: 78.5%; closing positive: 72.8%). Time-sensitive contexts reduced mitigation by 58%, temporarily overriding power norms. Resistance patterns revealed student agency through polite pushback (26.3%) and justified disagreement (19.8%), with lecturers responding accommodatively (explanation: 25.1%; compromise: 22.0%). Repair sequences showed role-dependent preferences: student-initiated apology (92.5% success) and lecturer-initiated explanation (87.3% success). Asynchronous digital discourse both reproduces institutional power asymmetries and enables novel forms of negotiation through platform-specific affordances. Effective face-work requires strategy-role alignment, with digital mediation transforming traditional politeness practices. Universities should develop communication guidelines acknowledging power asymmetries, provide faculty training on feedback structures and accommodative responses, and offer student orientation on pragmatic norms. Platform designers should incorporate features supporting face-work in asynchronous academic discourse.
Co-Authors Abdurahman Adisaputera Abraham Edeh Adebogun Babatunde Olayinka Aduloju Doyinsola Akhimien Emmanuel Alice Blessing Ogundiya Alikor Queen Nneka Aliyah Balogun-Ibijunle Amaka Yvonne Okafor Ambwa Lokula Junior Amédée Gbatea Kundana Amédée Kundana Gbatea Ange Thijenira Loketo Arifulhak Aceh Armand Endowa Doikasiye Aurel Vlad Aymard Papy Bembiade Babatunde Covenant Olugbenga Barsha Biswal Belay Sitotaw Goshu Belay Sitotaw Goshu Belay Sitotaw Goshu Belay Sitotaw Goshu Belay Sitotaw Goshu Journal Bembi Bosso Benjamin Zoawe Gbolo Benjamin Zoawe Gbolo Bikila Merga Deresa Bikram Biswas Bondombe Gorges-Willy Bright Kelechi Uzoji Briki C. Kakesa Charles K. Moywaywa Clarisse Falanga Mawi Colette Masengo Ashande Colette Masengo Ashande Damas Boboy Manzongo Damien Sha Tshibey Tshibangu Deborah Adedeji Dike Harcourt White Dorothée Tshilanda Dinangayi Duol Dak Maluel Ekpali Joseph Saint Eliane Griep Gomes Bitencourt Emmanuel Blessing Oyiza Emmanuel Kitete Mulongo Emmanuel Moke Lengbiye Eric Msughter Aondover Eser Demir Falguni Roy Ferdi T. Güçyetmez Florin Skutnik Francis Mosala Gabriel Lola Oriloye Gédéon Ngiala Bongo Gédéon Ngiala Bongo Godfrey Alinaitwe Hadiza Abubakar Ahmad Hauwa Kawo Mohammed Hossein Shahri Ibrahim Abdulkadir Idikodingo Anzinzoniwa Faustin Jacqueline Kangu Kobe Jacquie Kangu Kobe Jammy Seigha Guanah Javaid Ahmad Andrabi JB Zanyako Bosanza Jeff Iteku Bekomo John Likolo Baya Jonas Mbaya Kusagba Jonas Nagahuedi Mbongu Sodi Josiah Adewale Apalowo Josiah Adewale Apalowo Joy Collins-Dike JP Mokombe Magbukudua Koto-Te-Nyiwa Ngbolua Koto-te-Nyiwa Ngbolua Koto-te-Nyiwa Ngbolua Koto-Te-Nyiwa Ngbolua Koto-Te-Nyiwa Ngbolua Koto-te-Nyiwa Ngbolua Lettiah Gumbo Litucha Bakokola Joseph Loveth Okowa-Nwaebi M. Yoserizal Saragih Majeed Mohamed Fareed Majeed Marcus Garvey ORJI Marcus Garvey Orji Mark Angelo C. Reotutar Masengo Ashande Colette Masens Da-Musa Y.B. Mauricio Bueno da Rosa Melaku Masresha Woldeamanueal Melaku Masresha Woldeamanueal Melaku Masresha Woldeamanueal Mihai Pichler Modeste Ndaba Modeawi Modeste Ndaba Modeawi Moein Mirani Ahangar Kolaei Mohammad Nur Ullah Mohammad Taghi Sheykhi Molongo Mokondande Médard Molongo Mokondande Médard Monde-Te-Kazangba Godefroid Mostafa Toranji Muhammad Danjuma Abubakar Navaneeta Rath Ngalakpa Héritier Ngbolua Koto-te-Nyiwa Jean-Paul Njoku C. Justice Norie T. Tactay Nweke Pearl Iheoma Obodoeze Chekwube Josephine Ojetola Adetola Afolabi Oke Edward Edherue Okungo Lotokola Albert Olayinka Babatunde Adebogun Ololade Olatunji Ololade Olatunji Lateef Olusola Oladapo Makinde Omolara Akin-Odukoya Omolara Akin-Odukoya Omolara Oluwabusayo Akin-Odukoya Omotola Ogunbola Omotola Ogunbola Onaopepo Ibrahim Bamidele Paulos Manedo Hafebo Perpetua Ogechi Vitalis Philippe Ebuma Dongo Pius T. Mpiana Placide Makwa Mbulola Precious Awosanya Oreoluwa Precious Dube Ramlan Richard N. Amadi Robijaona Rahelivololoniaina Baholy Rokeeb Tunde Afeez Ruphin Djolu Djoza Ruphin Djolu Djoza Sajib Kumar Roy Shittu Lukman Olayinka Solomon Zerihun Songbo Kwedugbu Médard Subulola Etimiri Supper Roland Okijie Sylvester Ojenagbon Tadashi Adino Taffouo Victor Désiré Timothy Ekeledirichukwu Onyejelem Tolga Constantinou Toyosi Khadijat Owoyale Tunmise Daramola Ubong Edem Effiong Uzoji Bright Kelechi Vladimir Valentinovich Kozhevnikov Vladimir Valentinovich Kozhevnikov Zubair Shaib Bashir