MINIMALISM: TONE IN IGBO

Abstract

This paper reviews the present application of tone in the Igbo language. The review is subjected to the framework of the Chomskyan minimalist programme. It is discovered that tone marking in the Igbo language has not fared better in the study and promotion of the language. This development makes it necessary for us to revisit the application of tone in the Igbo language, especially as it relates to its classification. Hence, this paper acknowledges the roles of tone in the Igbo language and proposes the re-classification of tone in the language as a phonemic feature of vocalic and syllabic nasal segments. This would be against its present classification as a supra-segmental feature. To encourage hands-free usage of the language for better socio-economic activities of its users, the paper also proposes the need to allow the application of tone in the Igbo language to exist only in the phonetic forms of the language.