ORAL POETRY AND LITERATURE IN REV. JOSEPH EREBE’S PRAISE SONGS (EJE NYA OGBO) AMONG THE IGEDE PEOPLE OF BENUE STATE

Abstract

The paper examines praise songs in general, their features and the types from the point of view of some scholars in literature. It further discusses the artistic/figurative use of language by Erebe who sings not just for leisure and entertainment in themselves, but taking a cue from oral literature, the author/singer uses creative and enriched language to communicate important, eternal truths and information to the society. Joe Erebe’s Eje nya ogbo (song of praise) of the Igede extraction extols God using a seemingly simple linguistic repertoire but underneath is rich and mature use of language characterized by highly figurative expressions. The literary features which have been discussed reveal the song, as not merely a commendable work of literature but a rewarding song of praise among the Igede people of Benue State. The paper underscores the fact that the composition of this song is intended as a strong appeal for people to praise God for His innumerable blessings without losing its entertainment and literary purposes. On the premise of the latter (purpose), it is recommended that Erebe’s Eje nya ogbo should be adopted by the Benue State ministry of education for the teaching of literature and creativity in primary schools in Igede land and the idea should be embraced by other ethnic groups in their local communities in the country.