A Critical Discourse Analysis of Selected Nigerian Gubernatorial Inaugural Speeches, 2023

Abstract

This study was an attempt to critically analyze selected Nigerian gubernatorial inaugural speeches with the aim of identifying the linguistic choices, why they were made as well as the ideological implications of these choices and the way forward. Two gubernatorial inaugural speeches were selected and ten excerpts were taken purposively from each making a total of twenty. Using the qualitative research design, these were analyzed following the three dimensional model of Norman Fairclough. It was found that there is a preponderance use of inclusive pronouns and linguistic elements that implicate the electorate in the task of running the states thereby making governance a collective responsibility between the elected political leaders and the masses. The implication is the evasion of individual responsibility to the states. The study therefore suggested that political leaders including governors-elect should take their duties to the state as individual responsibility as this will enable them to see themselves as solely responsible for the outcome of whatever decisions and achievements they make in office for the betterment of the state. This will better policy decisions that will aid nation building.