Some segmental rules of Nigerian English phonology

Abstract

This paper discusses some major processes which characterise Nigerian English (NigE) phonology at the segmental level. After a review of patterns of realisation of English sounds in NigE, the paper identifies, analyses and names, where no previous names exist, the most salient contextual processes which can be considered the hallmarks of this variety of English. The next part of the analysis discusses the patterns of interaction of rules in NigE, addressing issues like ordering of rules, feeding and bleeding. The third part highlights the behaviour of NigE in relation to the existing rules of English; it thus acknowledges that NigE shares many existing rules of English phonology. But more importantly it shows that NigE applies other rules differently (either more generally, partially, or inordinately) and that some of its rules are altogether new when perceived in terms of the standard accents of Inner Circle Englishes. The conclusion of the study shows, inter alia, that the findings can be used very fruitfully to provide further, alternative, and arguably more convincing explanations and interpretations of many facts of NigE and related Englishes.