Investigating Lexical Contrast In The Varieties Of Alago Dialect

Abstract

Dialectal variation is a common phenomenon among language groups. Dialect variation among Alago speakers of Doma, Keana and Obi. This paper seeks to shed more light on differences among Alago speakers of Doma, Keana and Obi ranging from the comparative analysis of the lexical items elicited from the native speakers as well as oral interview. The study is also aimed at making these dialects meet the challenges posed by Nigeria's of 1999 constitution National Language Policy on Education with regard to Mother Tongue Education. The descriptive research methodology was used in carrying out this research. This method is adopted to provide adequate
information on the linguistic events that led to the variation. At the end of the investigation, the results showed that the similarities that exist between the dialects are clear evidence of genetic relationship. The evaluation of the results also indicates that migration, location and influence of other neighbouring languages are the major factors that precipitate the breed of dialects in Alago. The study proffered solutions aimed at harnessing the fabrics of Alago for social interaction and oneness in the language. This research shall be of great importance to dialectologists, researcher on comparative study of language and language policy makers.