Language Use and Unethical Practices in Contemporary Igbo Entrepreneurial Apprenticeship System

Abstract

Igbo entrepreneurial apprenticeship system (IEAS) has been characterised by different unethical practices in contemporary time. This study explores language use in perverting unethical practices in the system. The primary data are sourced from non-participant observation and secondary data drawn from library and internet sources. Qualitative and systematic review methods and content analysis are employed. The analysis shows that unlike in the good olden days, the Igbo entrepreneurship system had become flooded with different unethical practices and language (mis)use issues, though these matters concerning IEAS are currently neglected in extant studies. Relying on evidence from an extant literature, it is realised that most contemporary Igbo entrepreneurial bosses mindlessly violate apprentices’ rights and breach the apprenticeship contract, as they manipulate, indict, chastise, cheat, plot against and discharge their apprentices with partial or no settlement at/towards the completion of the apprenticeship. The study concludes that most of the bosses pervert different unethical practices and indulge in language game of deliberate negative use of language against their apprentices. It recommends that Igbo unions should outlaw all forms of unethical practices characterising the system and serve as arbitration authorities that attain justice for any affected (victimised) apprentices. Strong legislations should be involved, implemented and sustained against any Igbo entrepreneurs and apprentices found wanting