The Yoruba language, a critical part of Nigeria’s linguistic heritage, is facing the imminent danger of extinction if proactive measures are not promptly implemented, according to the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere.
At the conclusion of its caucus meeting in Akure, Ondo State, Afenifere lamented that the pervasive trend of Yoruba-speaking individuals substituting their native language with English poses a significant threat to the survival of the Yoruba language.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Afenifere urged the state governments in the region to prioritize the use of Yoruba as the primary medium for teaching at the elementary and lower levels of secondary education. This, the group believes, is a crucial step in safeguarding the future of the Yoruba language.
Not stopping at governmental intervention, Afenifere also called on parents to play an active role in preserving the Yoruba language by ensuring that their children are proficient in its usage.
The communique issued by Afenifere expressed grave concern, stating, “Afenifere observed that the Yoruba language is under threat of extinction due to the fact that many Yorubas, especially elites, prefer to communicate with their children in English rather than in their native language.”
Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, Afenifere stressed the need for immediate action, urging the authorities to make Yoruba the compulsory language of instruction at elementary and lower secondary levels. Additionally, the group advocated for the inclusion of Yoruba language as a compulsory subject in school certificate examinations.
Afenifere’s call to action also resonated with a plea to parents and guardians to cultivate a shift in attitude, ensuring that Yoruba language proficiency becomes an integral part of their children’s upbringing.
