The Influence of Igbo on Ibaji Dialect of Igala
Abstract
This study investigates the influence of Igbo on Ibaji dialect of Igala with a view to justifying the assertion that no place or language is entirely homogenous and also the recognition that we should concentrate more on those things that bind us together than the issues of diversity. Participatory observation and compilation of relevant wordlists were used for data collection and the method of analysis was mainly descriptive consequent upon the available data. The investigation reveals that a couple of factors like proximity and economic/commercial interest, among others, brought about the contact. Consequently, certain influences were observed of Igbo on the Ibaji dialect of Igala from the cognate/word level to morphosyntactic level and even the socio-cultural aspects of the people’s life. However, the study did not establish any bidirectional influence especially as it relates to the influence of the dialect on Igbo hence the suggestion or recommendation for further intensive research in this area.