A Stylistic and Cultural Analysis of Igbo Tongue Twisters in Umuezeawara, Ihiala

This study investigates Igbo tongue twisters as a distinctive form of oral literature in Umuezeawara, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. While much scholarly attention has been given to proverbs, folktales, and songs, tongue twisters remain relatively neglected despite their linguistic and cultural significance. The study is anchored in the oral-formulaic theory and literary stylistics. The oral-formulaic theory, developed by Milman Parry and Albert Lord (1960), highlights the patterned, repetitive, and mnemonic nature of oral traditions, providing a framework for analyzing the rhythmic and performative dimensions of tongue twisters. However, given its Western origin, the theory’s application to African oral traditions may overlook communal and performative nuances typical of African orality. Literary stylistics complements this perspective by offering tools for examining the aesthetic and linguistic artistry of tongue twisters such as wordplay, irony, and cultural allusion; yet it can risk isolating the text from its performance context. Synthesised, both theories enable a balanced exploration of structure, artistry, and cultural meaning, while recognition of performance and African oral aesthetics further grounds the analysis in its indigenous context. Adopting a qualitative descriptive and interpretive design, the study analyzed fifteen tongue twisters collected through purposive and snowball sampling, supported by interviews with cultural custodians. Findings reveal that Igbo tongue twisters embody linguistic creativity and cultural wisdom, performing roles in education, socialization, and identity construction. The study concludes that these tongue twisters are vital cultural artefacts that preserve Igbo oral heritage through humour, artistry, and verbal performance.