Implications of Speech Situations, Modernity and Anti-Proverbs in Nigeria

Proverbs have been observed to be one of the most esteemed dimensions to be use of language in many indigenous cultures of Nigeria. Proverbs are coded and cut across the linguistic field of idioms and metaphors in some cases. The use of proverb in many cultures is highly restrictive to some class of elders, titled men and men considered to be qualified by certain criteria within the society. In a very strict sense, proverbs can be said to be closed ended in terms of their derivations and interpretations. The realities of multi-culturalism, cosmopolitan existence and some speech act situations are however noted to be infringing upon the nature and meaning of certain proverbs in Nigeria. This paper examines the extent to which lack of proper understanding of proverb and the desire to create fun, among other factors, have tampered with the++ erstwhile sacrosanct linguistic practice and the implications of these anti-proverbs on Nigeria proverbs. The study makes use of people staff and students of a Nigerian tertiary institution to investigate the implications of speech situation, modernity and anti-proverbs on the Nigeria proverbs.