ENGENDERING HARMONY THROUGH LANGUAGE: AN EVALUATIVE STYLISTIC STUDY OF FORMER GOVERNOR BABATUNDE RAJI FASOLA’S RESPONSE TO A PRESIDENTIAL ORDER

Abstract

This study discusses language as a human property and highlights
the range of knowledge and skills that should be acquired to
enhance the employment of appropriate style in any
communication event. The study notes that appropriate use of
words is crucial so as not to hamper communication, the
consequence of which may be disastrous. Effective communication
is even more desirable now in this period galloping inflation on
goods and services, general insecurity and harsh economy felt by
greater majority of the people all over Nigeria. The paper analyses
the style employed by Governor Fashola of Lagos State in his reply
to a presidential order using evaluative stylistics approach. The
outcome of the analysis is that the paper established that the
Governor employed appropriate words and structures which have
helped to forestall crisis between the Federal Government and the
State Government. It therefore concludes that language style, when
used appropriately can engender peace in the society.

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