THE USE OF DIALECTS IN MEDIA: USE OF EKITI DIALECT ON RADIO PROGRAMS IN EKITI STATE NIGERIA

This paper examines the use of Ekiti dialect a variant of Yoruba language in the media in Ekiti state Nigeria where the largest population of the speakers of this dialect can be found. The paper analyses the choice of language variant used for radio programs across 5 biggest radio stations in the state (Ekiti FM, Fresh FM, Voice FM, Ayoba FM, New Cruise FM). The purpose of this research is to figure out the behavior of residents of Ekiti state and media practitioners in the state towards the media usage of Ekiti dialect or the standard form of the Yoruba language. The effects on the Yoruba language and media are also discussed. A survey was carried out and purposive sampling was used as 50 listeners to the radio stations were given questionnaires to fill. Another questionnaire was administered to 21 media practitioners who work in this radio stations to also get professional insight on the subject matter. Findings show that using the Ekiti dialect aids comprehension, increases interest in the activities of the radio station, and should be encouraged. Respondents agree that using the Ekiti dialect as the main language form in the media in the state would help drive more engagement and interest amongst the audience than using the standard form of the Yoruba language. The issue of the financial implication is also a concern as the standard Yoruba dialect has a wider reach of audience than the Ekiti dialect.