In my early years, there was a woman who adamantly prohibited us from speaking our native Yoruba dialect to her children, insisting solely on English. Ironically, she herself communicated exclusively in English, leaving her children with only fragments of their father's Yoruba. This, I believe, illustrates one of the grievous legacies of colonialism in Nigeria. While Yoruba, like many other Nigerian languages, boasts rich cultural traditions, British interference has led us to undervalue our own authenticity, instead investing significant time and resources into mastering the colonial language.

Sadly, many Yorubas today cannot confidently claim fluency in their remarkable native tongue. Despite bearing traditional tribal marks, they often boast about their proficiency in English, neglecting their heritage. Contrastingly, Igbos and Hausas prioritize their ethnic languages within their households, ensuring its continuity and preservation. This dedication aids in the retention of traditional sayings, proverbs, and customs.

In a twist of fate, the eldest child of the aforementioned woman pursued higher education in Yoruba, the very language she restricted her children from embracing. Today, she serves as a Yoruba teacher in a secondary school within my constituency. What an ironic turn of events!

© Oluwaninshola