THE PERCEPTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS RADIO ABUJA LISTENERS ON PIDGIN ENGLISH BROADCASTING (A CASE STUDY OF LUGBE RESIDENTS)

1.0 Introduction

This chapter contains the background to the study and a statement of the problem which describes in clear terms the gaps which this study seeks to fill. This chapter highlights the objectives of the study, research questions, research hypotheses, significance of the study, scope of the study, and definition of terms.

1.1 Background to the Study

Pidgin English, a simplified form of language that emerges as a means of communication between speakers of different native languages, has played a significant role in bridging linguistic gaps in multilingual societies. In Nigeria, Pidgin English, often referred to simply as "Pidgin," has evolved as a lingua franca, enabling communication across the country’s diverse ethnic groups. With over 500 languages spoken in Nigeria, the utility of Pidgin English in fostering understanding and facilitating interactions cannot be overstated (Igboanusi, 2016).

The origins of Nigerian Pidgin English can be traced back to the 17th century when the British colonialists and indigenous traders engaged in commercial activities. Over time, Pidgin developed into a robust language with its unique grammar, vocabulary, and syntax, influenced by both indigenous languages and standard English (Faraclas, 2013). Today, Pidgin English is spoken by millions of Nigerians and has gained recognition as a vital aspect of the nation's linguistic landscape. Despite its informal status, it is widely used in various domains, including politics, music, literature, and the media (Egbokhare, 2020).

The media, particularly radio, has been instrumental in the widespread adoption and normalization of Pidgin English in Nigeria. Radio, being one of the most accessible forms of media in the country, has a broad reach that cuts across different social classes, ethnicities, and geographical locations. Radio broadcasting in Pidgin English has become a powerful tool for reaching a diverse audience, particularly in urban areas where people from different linguistic backgrounds converge. It provides an inclusive platform where listeners feel connected to the content and the broadcasters (Adebayo, 2019).

In the context of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Nigeria, the use of Pidgin English in radio broadcasting has gained significant traction. Abuja is home to a diverse population, with residents hailing from all parts of Nigeria. This diversity presents both opportunities and challenges for radio stations aiming to cater to a broad audience. Pidgin English, with its widespread understanding and acceptance, emerges as a strategic choice for broadcasters aiming to reach and engage a heterogeneous audience (Okonkwo, 2018).

Human Rights Radio Abuja, a prominent radio station in the FCT, has embraced Pidgin English as a primary medium of communication. The station, known for its advocacy on social justice, human rights, and public accountability, leverages Pidgin English to ensure its message is accessible to the masses. The station’s flagship program, "Brekete Family," which is conducted primarily in Pidgin English, has garnered a massive following, particularly among the urban poor and working-class residents of Abuja (Nwafor & Nwoye, 2020).

Human Rights Radio Abuja’s adoption of Pidgin English is not merely a linguistic choice but a strategic decision to foster inclusivity and engagement. In a city as diverse as Abuja, where residents come from various ethnic and linguistic backgrounds, the use of Pidgin English helps break down language barriers and allows the station to communicate effectively with a broad audience. However, this decision is not without its complexities. Given the varied linguistic and cultural backgrounds of Abuja's residents, perceptions of Pidgin English broadcasting can differ significantly (Oladipupo, 2022).

While some listeners appreciate the use of Pidgin English for its accessibility and relatability, others may view it as informal or even inappropriate for certain types of discourse. These varying perceptions underscore the need to understand how different segments of the population respond to Pidgin English in radio broadcasting. In particular, it is essential to explore the perceptions of residents in specific areas of Abuja, such as Lugbe, a suburb known for its diverse and densely populated community (Adedokun, 2021).

This study, therefore, seeks to examine the perception of Human Rights Radio Abuja listeners in Lugbe community towards Pidgin English broadcasting. It also provide insights into how Pidgin English is received by a diverse audience and what implications this has for the station’s communication strategies.

 

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Abuja, Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory, is a melting pot of diverse ethnicities, with residents speaking a wide range of languages. This linguistic diversity poses unique challenges for communication, particularly in mass media. Human Rights Radio Abuja has adopted Pidgin English as a means to bridge these language barriers and foster inclusivity. However, the effectiveness of Pidgin English in reaching and engaging the city's heterogeneous audience remains uncertain. The central issue is how different segments of this diverse population perceive the use of Pidgin English in broadcasting, and whether it enhances or hinders communication and listener engagement. Specifically, in Lugbe—a community known for its cultural and linguistic diversity—it is crucial to assess whether Pidgin English serves as an inclusive communication tool or whether it alienates certain groups, thereby affecting the overall efficacy of the radio station’s messaging. This study aims to investigate these perceptions and their impact on the effectiveness of Pidgin English as a broadcasting medium in such a diverse urban setting.

 

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The primary aim of the study is to explore the perception of human rights radio Abuja listeners on pidgin English broadcasting. Specifically the study:

1. Examines the perception of Lugbe residents towards the use of Pidgin English in radio broadcasting by Human Rights Radio Abuja.

2. Examines how the demographic and educational background influence on the perception of Pidgin English among Lugbe residents.

3. Investigates the impact of Pidgin English broadcasting on the engagement and participation of Lugbe residents in Human Rights Radio Abuja's programs.

 

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions guide this study:

1. What are the perception of Lugbe residents towards Pidgin English broadcasting by Human Rights Radio Abuja?

2. How does demographic factors and educational background influence Lugbe residents' perceptions of Pidgin English?

3. What are the impact of Pidgin English broadcasting on the engagement and participation of Lugbe residents in Human Rights Radio Abuja's programs?

 

 

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study will be of significant benefit to students of the Department of English and Literary Studies. It will find the study useful as it contributes to the understanding of language use in media and communication. It will also benefit researchers working on related topics as it provides empirical data on the perception of Pidgin English in radio broadcasting. Additionally, the findings will be valuable to radio broadcasters and media practitioners, particularly those at Human Rights Radio Abuja, as it will offer insights into audience engagement strategies in a multilingual and multicultural environment. Policymakers and language planners may also find the study useful in understanding the role of Pidgin English in fostering national cohesion and communication.

 

1.6 Scope of the Study

This study focuses on the residents of Lugbe, a suburb of Abuja, and covers both young and older adults who can understand and speak English. The study specifically examine the perceptions of these residents towards Pidgin English broadcasting by Human Rights Radio Abuja. The scope is limited to Lugbe residents, as this area represents a microcosm of Abuja’s diverse population.

 

1.8 Definition of Terms

English: The adopted official Nigeria language spoken across tribes.

Pidgin English: A simplified form of language that develops as a means of communication between speakers of different native languages. In Nigeria, it is a blend of English and indigenous languages, widely used as a lingua franca.

Broadcasting: the transmission of programmes or information by radio or television.

Human Rights Radio Abuja: A radio station in Abuja, Nigeria, known for its advocacy on social justice, human rights, and public accountability, primarily using Pidgin English for communication.

Perception: The way in which something is regarded, understood, or interpreted by individuals or groups.

Lugbe: A suburb of Abuja, Nigeria, characterized by a diverse and densely populated community.