‘Verbal Carpentry’ As Language of Political Corruption in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examines the ingenious ways Nigerians use the English language with less integrity and in so doing, abuse the power of language, and consequently enthrone corruption through deception, manipulation, judgmental accusations, and lying. The grave implications, which this practised state art of what can be described as verbal carpentry portend for good governance in Nigeria and Africa by extension call for a radical departure from this depraved communication system. To give the power of the English language its rightful place in Nigeria, the political leaders should strive to use and appreciate the power of language with integrity, teach the power of articulate speech that captures the intensity of our feelings, without using it as a weapon of mass deception, and abhor the abuse of this power that violates and insults the sensibilities of the people.