Background of the Study
Political oratory in Nigeria is a dynamic arena where language is employed to persuade, inform, and mobilize the electorate. Election speeches, in particular, are characterized by distinct morphosyntactic features that combine both morphological innovations and syntactic structures to deliver compelling messages (Eze, 2023). These speeches often incorporate specialized vocabulary, persuasive devices, and complex sentence constructions that reflect the speakers’ political ideologies and strategic communication goals. This study evaluates the morphosyntactic characteristics of Nigerian election speeches, focusing on how language is manipulated to enhance persuasive impact and foster public engagement. By comparing speeches from different political contexts and regions, the research highlights both commonalities and divergences in language use. The investigation further explores how these morphosyntactic features contribute to the overall clarity and effectiveness of political discourse, providing a framework for understanding how language influences voter perception and political legitimacy (Okafor, 2024; Nwankwo, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the critical role of language in shaping political opinions, there is limited systematic analysis of the morphosyntactic features present in Nigerian election speeches. Variations in word formation and sentence structure may obscure key messages and reduce the persuasive power of political rhetoric (Eze, 2023). The lack of a detailed linguistic framework to assess these features hinders efforts to improve political communication and voter understanding (Okafor, 2024). Without such analysis, political actors may inadvertently employ language that fails to resonate with diverse audiences, undermining democratic engagement and accountability (Nwankwo, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
To analyze morphosyntactic features in Nigerian election speeches.
To compare language use across different political contexts.
To assess the impact of these features on persuasive communication.
Research Questions
What morphosyntactic characteristics define Nigerian election speeches?
How do these features vary among political candidates?
How do they affect voter perception and engagement?
Significance of the Study
This study deepens our understanding of political communication by evaluating morphosyntactic features in Nigerian election speeches. Its findings will assist political strategists and linguists in crafting messages that are both clear and persuasive, thereby enhancing democratic participation (Eze, 2023; Okafor, 2024; Nwankwo, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses exclusively on Nigerian election speeches and does not consider other political oratory forms.
Definitions of Terms
Morphosyntax: The interaction of morphology and syntax in language.
Political Oratory: Public speaking aimed at influencing political opinions.
Election Speeches: Formal addresses delivered by political candidates during campaigns.
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