ABSTRACT
This paper conducts a discourse analysis of some selected Biafran war songs. War is an ill wind that blows no one any good. This paper explores some selected Biafran war songs as it relates to their functions, the incorporated cultures as well as the semantic attributes of certain expressions used in the songs. The research method employed in this study is qualitative and the data was collected through both primary and secondary sources which include document observation, journal articles, dissertations and library research. The data is analyzed descriptively. The theoretical framework underlying this study is discourse analysis, which explores the relationship between language and its contextual usage. The study reveals that the Biafrans employed prayer or entreating songs to call upon God to help them kill and destroy their enemies. Praise and morale-boosting songs during the Biafran War played essential roles. They elevated morale, promoted solidarity, sparked bravery, and reinforced cultural identity. The satirical songs functioned as forms of protest and commentary. They scrutinized political figures, spotlighted societal concerns, and enhanced the spirits of the Biafran populace. Infused with humor and irony, these songs criticized the actions of the Nigerian government and the international community's response to the conflict. The dirges and melancholic songs on the other hand, conveyed grief, paid homage to the fallen, unity, prompted introspection, recounted history, and increased awareness. These mournful melodies acted as shared outlets for sadness, a method to process feelings, 11 and a medium to remember the war's repercussions on individuals and society. The study further reveals that there were some beliefs and culture of the Igbo people that added to the songs to give them a sense of identity. Such beliefs include the belief in a Supreme ruler of the universe which they called upon at every stage of the war either for protection or to help them annihilate the enemy troop. Furthermore, the Igbo people believe in praising heros and immortalizing them through songs and other artistic media. Such was the case of the songs that were sang about Ojukwu. It is further revealed in this study that though the Igbo people view death as debt that would definitely be paid by everybody one day, they do not view it as a final concept because of their belief in reincarnation (iloụwa). It is believed that a dead person would come into the world again. This study finds again that certain expressions were added into the songs in order to evoke psychological sentiments.
