Verbal Hygiene in the Use of the English Language: A Tool for Unity, Conflict Resolution and Sustainable Development in Nigeria

The place of cultivating good verbal hygiene is fundamental towards achieving unity, conflict resolution and sustainable development in a linguistically, ethnically, culturally and politically diversified Nigerian society. The concept of verbal hygiene seeks to emphasize the use of respectful and unbiased words to express our opinions in given social context. Even though, freedom of speech is guaranteed for all citizens, it has been abused by Nigerian leaders who capitalize on this opportunity to achieve their selfish and hateful agenda. The recent condemnation of Awolowo has sparked off verbal wars between Igbo and Yoruba ethnic groups because of humanitarian issues raised by Achebe. Again, through unguarded and evil utterances of Northern leaders like Major General Buhari, Lawal Kaita and other Muslim clerics thousands of lives have been lost. In this paper, we have discussed extensively, how effective use of words can be utilized to achieve sustainable development in Nigeria.