The Effect of Intonation on Persuasion in Nigerian Political Speeches: A Case Study of Presidential Debates
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Background of the study
Intonation, the variation of pitch in speech, plays a pivotal role in enhancing persuasive communication, especially in high-stakes political contexts. In Nigerian presidential debates, intonation not only conveys emotion and emphasis but also influences audience perception and persuasion. This study examines how variations in pitch, stress, and rhythm contribute to the persuasive impact of political speeches. By analyzing recordings of presidential debates, the research investigates the strategic use of intonation to accentuate key policy points, mitigate contentious issues, and project authority. The study integrates acoustic analysis with audience feedback to understand how intonation patterns affect message reception. Furthermore, it considers the interplay between cultural communication styles and modern political rhetoric, revealing how indigenous prosodic features are blended with global persuasive techniques. The findings are expected to inform political communication strategies and enhance the effectiveness of public speaking in Nigerian politics (Ogunleye, 2023; Afolabi, 2024; Musa, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite the recognized influence of intonation on persuasion, there is limited research on its specific effects in Nigerian presidential debates. Variability in intonation may alter audience interpretation and affect the overall persuasiveness of political messages. The lack of systematic acoustic and perceptual studies hampers our ability to develop effective public speaking strategies that align with cultural norms and modern political demands (Ogunleye, 2023).
Objectives of the study:
• To document intonation patterns in presidential debates.
• To assess the impact of these patterns on persuasive communication.
• To recommend strategies for enhancing political speech delivery.
Research questions:
• What are the key intonation features in presidential debates?
• How do these features influence audience persuasion?
• What strategies can optimize intonation for effective communication?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it uncovers the role of intonation in shaping political persuasion in Nigeria, providing insights that can improve the delivery of political messages and enhance democratic discourse (Musa, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study focuses exclusively on intonation in Nigerian presidential debates and does not extend to other political contexts.
Definitions of terms:
• Intonation: The variation in pitch during speech.
• Persuasion: The process of influencing attitudes or behavior.
• Presidential Debates: Formal discussions among presidential candidates.
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