ABSTRACT
This research explores the use of praise expressions within the Itsekiri language community, highlighting the personal attributes these expressions typically celebrate. It categorises the praise expressions based on their focus and further examines their pragmatic functions. Grounded in the ‘doctrine of illocution’ under speech act theory, which posits that language serves as a tool for performing actions to achieve specific goals, the paper analyses how these expressions function in various contexts. This research is inspired by the need to appreciate and preserve Itsekiri panegyric poetry, an important part of the community’s oral tradition. Panegyric poetry reflects the values, history, and leadership ideals of the Itsekiri people, yet it remains underrepresented in academic studies. This study focuses on analysing Itsekiri panegyric poetry by collecting examples from oral performances and written sources. The selected poems are transcribed to capture their sounds and tones accurately, then translated into English while keeping their meaning and cultural context intact. The findings will be shared through academic publications, conferences, and workshops to enrich knowledge on African linguistics and Itsekiri culture. It suggest that panegyric poetry are employed to praise and celebrate people, especially leaders, by highlighting their qualities and achievements. The poems are rich in imagery, using metaphors and grand language to honour traits like leadership, generosity, strength, cultural pride, and spiritual importance. It influence behaviour, provide entertainment, and support historical documentation, among other purposes. It can help promote and preserve Itsekiri panegyric poetry through archives, books, and recordings. Schools can teach Itsekiri oral traditions to help young people learn about their culture. Traditional poets can be supported to keep this art alive. The media can also help by creating programmes and documentaries to share this poetry with more people. Parents should teach their children about panegyric poetry, as this is one of the best ways to keep it alive. Future studies can look at how this poetry connects with music, dance, and festivals to better understand Itsekiri culture.
