Enugu (Enugu State) – Former Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu State has decried the prevalence of Pidgin and Broken English in everyday communication among the youths.
Chime made the observation in Enugu on Tuesday while exchanging views with members of the Coal City Literary Forum led by its President, Mrs Adaobi Nwoye.
According to him, Pidgin English widely adopted is fast replacing good English “and our children are greatly seduced by it.
“It is disheartening to know that even so- called graduates are unable to speak good English. They take to Pidgin English and corrupt our younger ones with it.
“Many Nigerian musicians cannot sing good songs in good English, even the new generation radio stations use funny terms or slangs in some of their programmes”, he said.
The former governor said all hands must be on deck to filter Pidgin English away from the lips of youths so as not to wreak unfathomable havoc in the future.
Chime identified lack of reading as a major hindrance to nation’s development and intellectual competitiveness.
He pledged support for the forum in promoting reading culture and helping upcoming writers to sharpen their skills.
“This will send packing the ugly interference of Pidgin English which is fast becoming our national character.’’
The former governor commended the leadership of the forum for its good work especially in recognizing some renowned writers like Prof Anezi Okoro .
Chime said Okoro was worthy to be celebrated describing the octogenarian as a `legend’ who had made a monumental achievement in the literary world and in service to humanity.
President of the forum, Nwoye lauded Chime for supporting the development of literary art and solicited his partnership with the group.
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The forum organises reading clubs for primary and secondary school children to promote reading culture among them. (NAN)
