Yoruba language under threat of extinction – Afenifere sends message to govs

The pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has said if necessary measures are not put in place, the Yoruba language may go into extinction soon.

In a communique issued at the end of its caucus meeting held in Akure, the Ondo State capital, Afenifere claimed that citizens of the region are now substituting Yoruba for English.

The group called on state governments in the region to “make the language the medium for teaching at elementary and lower level of secondary education”.

Afenifere further called on parents to ensure that the ability to speak the language is inculcated into their children.

The communique reads, “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.

“To prevent the language from going into extinction, therefore, Afenifere called on governments in Yorubaland to make the language the medium for teaching at elementary and lower levels of secondary education.

“And make it compulsory for students at school certificate examination level. It also called on parents and guardians to change their attitude by ensuring that their children are versed in Yoruba language”