As modernisation and urbanisation is pushing indigenous Nigerian languages to extinction, some leaders, yesterday, in Abuja, asked Nigerians, especially parents, to ensure their children link up with their culture.
Stressing the need to seek development of local communities, speakers at a love feast organised by Uhonmora Community Association, Abuja, said some languages and culture were under threat in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, lawmaker representing Owan West Local Council of Edo State, Blessing Agbebaku, implored Nigerians not to abandon their places of origin.
He disclosed that the infrastructure gap in most rural communities would be limited if Nigerians living in the diaspora and cities across the country see the need for community development.
Agbebaku said that it was bad for people to allow their languages and cultures to get swallowed, adding that parents owe it to their children.
“I speak my dialect fluently and my campaign was mainly in my local dialect. I have also passed this to my children. It is the right thing to do.
“I am aware that this association is already funding an erosion project that has been affecting the community. The gathering here today enables our people to come together to strengthen peaceful co-existence, speak our language, eat local delicacies and interact in love,” Agbebaku said.
According to him, Nigerians must emulate such an example and ensure that their children are not denied the link to their ancestral roots.
Media practitioner and Chairman of the association, Imevbore Ohiomokhare, said the community has been neglected for a long time, stressing that the state government should come to their aid.
“It is sad that portable water is still a challenge in my community. Provision of portable water should not be a challenge for a community like ours. We voted for them but when it is time for development projects, we are excluded,” he stated.
He noted that it was shameful for people not to prioritise their ancestral roots or teach their children about their culture.
