PROMOTING ENVIRONMENTAL ENLIGHTENMENT IN RURAL AREAS OF IKALE AND ILAJE THROUGH BIRIPO TRADITIONAL MUSIC

Abstract

For several years, Nigeria has suffered environmental degradation owing to illicit activities of individuals, communities, factories and companies. The resultant effect of these activities is an unhygienic and inhabitable environment by humans and animals alike. Although government has put in some effort aimed at curbing the menace of such illicit activities, the potentials of music in stemming the tide of the increasing environmental pollution have not been adequately explored. Biripo traditional music is one of such music that communicates to individuals on the dire need to save the environment from activities that undermine the safety of inhabitants. The paper therefore aims to study the textual content of the music and unearth the environmental themes contained in them. Utilizing ethnographic and analytical methods, the paper found out that Biripo traditional music possesses eco-musicological features and continues to play a significant role in orientation of the Ikale and Ilaje on environmental issues. The paper recommends that more Biripo musicians be supported by government through sponsorship in the waxing of albums that address environmental issues in the area under study.