Nicknames as Marker of Identity in Ilorin; a Socio Linguistic Analysis

Abstract

Although a lot of scholarly research has been done on Yoruba names, little or no literature exist on nicknames fondly used among Ilorin people and its interplay with language in signalling identity. Therefore, this research was initiated to provide information on the socio-linguistic features of Yoruba nicknames of among Ilorin people and their use in marking identity. To this end, structured questionnaire was used to elicit information on nicknames from 150 Ilorin indigenes selected from three (3) tertiary institutions namely Kwara State University (KWASU), Kwara State Polytechnic (Kwara Poly) and University of Ilorin (UNILORIN). The findings showed that nicknames borne by Ìlọrin indigenes (NII) can be classified into name derivative, celebrities’-imitated-nicknames, ironic nicknames, euphemistic nicknames, transliterated-anglicised nicknames, anglicised name derivative, physical attribute-derived nicknames, family name derivative, translation of bearer name and ambition based nicknames. It also showed that nicknames are fluid and hence not exclusive to any ethnic entity-Ilorin but provides means of social interaction and integration in the society. They indicate social identity.

Key words: Ilorin, nicknames, identity, language, socio linguitic.