Abstract

This paper is an ethno-linguistic and pragmatic documentation of the forms of address in Oko, a dialect of Igbo. Such a study is necessary considering the gradual yet steady death of many languages in Nigeria or aspects of these languages as in the case with Igbo. Data for analysis are collected mainly through native-speaker introspection and personal observation. However, I crosschecked the data with older native-speakers for verification and validation. Apart from documenting these forms for posterity, this study has also illuminated aspects of the Oko culture as revealed in their address forms. It further foregrounds the place of address forms as a major part of the linguistic etiquette of the society and understanding this is necessary for a peaceful coexistence in the society.

Key words: Oko, address forms, titles, names, ethno-linguistics.