Background of the study
Traditional oratory in Yoruba is a rich cultural art form that relies heavily on sophisticated linguistic devices, including affixation, to convey meaning and evoke emotional responses. This study examines the affixation patterns employed by traditional orators in Abeokuta, exploring how prefixes, suffixes, and infixes contribute to the rhetorical power of Yoruba language. In traditional Yoruba performance, affixation not only modifies word meaning but also enhances rhythm and mnemonic quality, crucial for the oral transmission of cultural knowledge (Oladele, 2023). The study investigates how these affixation strategies are used to maintain tradition while adapting to contemporary contexts. Field recordings and textual analyses of oratory performances provide the data needed to analyze the frequency, function, and stylistic variation of affixes in this cultural setting (Afolabi, 2024). Furthermore, the research explores the interplay between traditional linguistic practices and modern influences such as formal education and media, which may be reshaping affixation patterns among new generations of orators (Oluwole, 2025). This comprehensive examination contributes to a deeper understanding of Yoruba morphology in traditional performance art and informs broader discussions on language preservation and cultural continuity.
Statement of the problem
Despite the recognized importance of affixation in Yoruba oratory, there is limited systematic research on the specific affixation patterns used by traditional orators in Abeokuta. Preliminary observations suggest that while traditional techniques are still in practice, modern influences may be altering these patterns, leading to potential shifts in cultural expression (Oladele, 2023). The absence of detailed empirical data hampers efforts to document and preserve these linguistic features for future generations (Afolabi, 2024). This gap challenges educators and cultural custodians who seek to maintain the authenticity of traditional oratory amid rapid social change (Oluwole, 2025).
Objectives of the study:
To document affixation patterns in Yoruba oratory in Abeokuta.
To analyze the functions of different affixes in traditional speeches.
To assess the influence of modern factors on traditional affixation practices.
Research questions:
What affixation patterns are most common among Yoruba orators in Abeokuta?
How do these affixes contribute to the overall rhetorical effect?
What modern influences are reshaping traditional affixation?
Research Hypotheses:
Traditional affixation patterns are central to Yoruba oratory.
Modern influences lead to measurable modifications in affixation use.
The use of affixes correlates with enhanced narrative impact.
Significance of the study:
This study is significant as it documents the role of affixation in Yoruba traditional oratory, offering valuable insights for cultural preservation and linguistic research. The findings will support efforts to maintain traditional practices while accommodating modern influences (Oladele, 2023; Oluwole, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to analyzing affixation in Yoruba oratory in Abeokuta and does not extend to other performance arts or linguistic elements.
Definitions of terms:
Affixation: The process of adding morphemes to a base word.
Traditional Oratory: Oral performances that convey cultural narratives.
Yoruba: An indigenous language spoken in southwestern Nigeria.
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