LANGUAGE ALONE DOES NOT DEFINE A PEOPLE!

It is misleading to claim that language is the only or most unique identifier of a people. Across Nigeria and around the world, we see countless examples where people share languages but remain culturally, historically, or politically distinct — and vice versa.

Let’s break it down:

NIGERIAN EXAMPLES

UKWUANI VS IGBO

Though Ukwuani language shares similarities with Igbo, Ukwuani people have maintained a distinct identity rooted in their location (Delta State), political experience, and unique customs. Being linguistically close doesn’t erase our different historical trajectory.

IJEBU VS EGBA (YORUBA)

Both speak Yoruba dialects, yet they uphold different traditional rulers, social systems, and regional pride. They never accepted a singular identity even under colonial rule.

HAUSA-FULANI FUSION

Most Fulani in Northern Nigeria speak Hausa due to cultural assimilation, but the Fulani retain a unique identity, especially tied to their pastoral history and Islamic heritage.

AFRICA & BEYOND

CAMEROON

Over 200 languages, yet national identity is Cameroonian. The ongoing Anglophone-Francophone crisis proves language is not enough to unify or define people.

 SOUTH AFRICA

Zulu and Xhosa are linguistically close, but culturally and politically distinct. Both emphasize their differences even while coexisting under a shared South African identity.

 INDIA

From Tamil to Punjabi to Bengali, India thrives despite deep linguistic diversity. Identity is shaped more by region, religion, caste, and politics than by language alone.

 SWITZERLAND

Four national languages (German, French, Italian, Romansh), yet one strong national identity built on federalism and shared values.

CANADA AND THE U.S.

English is dominant in both countries, yet Canadians and Americans identify very differently, shaped by history, politics, and values.

 FINAL THOUGHT

Language is important — no doubt. It helps in communication and preserving heritage. But language alone is not enough to define who a people are. Identity is complex: it is shaped by history, geography, culture, political struggle, collective memory, and self-perception.

So the idea that a people must be the same because they speak the same language is simplistic and dangerous. Let people define themselves — not just through language, but through the full lens of their experience.

Ukwuani is unique. Anioma is diverse. Nigeria is complex. Let's respect the full truth of our identities.

I remain that local chief from Abbi Kingdom,

Innocent Onyah, PhD