A Socio Linguistic Study of Village Associations in Amauzara, ISI-ALA Mbano, Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This work examines Village Associations in Amauzari Isi-Ala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State. Amauzari is a town with Ten Villages, namely: Okwosu, Umueze, Ekwe, Umuagwu, Umudim, Umunumo, Umumpele, Umuechem, Okwelle and Anuzo. Associations do exist in different societies. Associations are platforms on which religious, social, and economic status of individuals and the community in general can improve themselves. The aim of this study is to show that the formation of associations enhance the development of the individual in Amauzari. Data for this study were collected through a random sampling technique using oral interviews and participant observations with elders aged 50-70 years in the ten villages of Amauzari. The researcher conducted oral interviews during village meetings of the different associations. The theoretical framework on which this paper is carried out is Ethnography of communication. This theory is concerned with the linguistic and sociocultural rules that are operational amongst a group of people. Findings reveal that social organizations are training grounds to persons in Amauzari and that associations lead to a communal system where everybody cares for one another. The results reveal that the village associations are socio-political organization where family conflicts between husband and wives, brothers and sisters, and extended family members are resolved. Village associations are peace keeping organization in Amauzara. Peace is a collective effort and responsibility because without peace there will be no development. All hands should be on deck for peace to reign in our society.