An Appraisal of Pragmatic Strategies in Nigerian Political Interviews: A Study of Code-Switching Between English and Local Languages
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Background of the Study
Political interviews in Nigeria serve as a microcosm of the country’s linguistic diversity, where politicians often navigate multiple languages to appeal to broad audiences. This study examines the pragmatic strategies deployed during such interviews, focusing on code-switching between English and local languages. Code-switching—alternating between two or more languages—allows politicians to convey nuances, emphasize points, and connect with various demographic groups (Ajayi, 2023). In the context of Nigerian political discourse, switching from English to indigenous languages can serve as a tool to express authenticity, cultural pride, and relatability. This research investigates the underlying pragmatic principles that guide such shifts, including how context, audience composition, and message intent influence language choice. It further explores the potential risks, such as misinterpretation or alienation of non-native speakers, and how these are managed by skilled communicators (Babatunde, 2024). The study employs both qualitative and quantitative methods to analyze interview transcripts, aiming to provide a systematic account of the role of code-switching in enhancing or detracting from political messaging (Chinonso, 2025). Through this lens, the research contributes to our understanding of bilingual communication strategies in high-stakes political environments.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the frequent occurrence of code-switching in Nigerian political interviews, there is limited systematic research on the pragmatic strategies underlying this practice. Politicians often alternate between English and local languages without clear guidelines, which can lead to inconsistencies in message delivery and audience interpretation (Ajayi, 2023). Such linguistic shifts, while potentially enhancing relatability, may also create barriers for segments of the audience not proficient in the local language. Furthermore, there is scant empirical evidence on how these pragmatic choices influence public perception and political credibility (Babatunde, 2024). This study aims to fill this gap by exploring the strategic use of code-switching and its effects on communication efficacy in political interviews (Chinonso, 2025).
Objectives of the Study:
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To document the occurrence of code-switching in Nigerian political interviews.
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To analyze the pragmatic strategies behind language alternation between English and local languages.
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To assess the impact of these strategies on audience interpretation and political credibility.
Research Questions:
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What pragmatic strategies are employed during code-switching in political interviews?
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How does switching between English and local languages affect message clarity?
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What impact does code-switching have on political credibility among diverse audiences?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it sheds light on the pragmatic dimensions of code-switching in Nigerian political interviews. By elucidating how language alternation influences public perception, the research offers valuable insights for political communication and media training. The findings can guide politicians and communication experts in employing bilingual strategies effectively, thereby enhancing message clarity and audience engagement. Ultimately, the study contributes to academic discussions on bilingualism and pragmatic language use in high-stakes communication (Chinonso, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study focuses exclusively on code-switching between English and local languages in Nigerian political interviews. It is limited to selected interviews and does not consider other forms of political communication or different language pairs.
Definitions of Terms:
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Code-Switching: The practice of alternating between two or more languages in conversation.
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Pragmatic Strategies: Techniques used to convey meaning effectively in context.
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Political Interviews: Media interactions in which political figures discuss policies, opinions, and governance.
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