Nigerian musician [/b]and cultural advocate, Charles Onyeabor, has sparked conversations online after criticizing Africans for prioritizing English fluency over their indigenous languages, arguing that intelligence is not determined by one’s ability to speak English.
Onyeabor’s comments challenge the widespread notion that speaking perfect English equates to being intelligent, emphasizing that linguistic ability and intelligence are two separate qualities.
He expressed disappointment in how African [/b]societies have adopted English as the standard for communication and success, often looking down on those who struggle with it. According to him, this mindset has led many to abandon their native tongues, which are a crucial part of their cultural heritage.
“Perfect English is not a mark of intelligence; it’s a mark of linguistic ability. We Africans were programmed to believe that the more you speak better English, it then means you are intelligent,” Onyeabor said.
“I know a lot of flawless English-speaking guys and girls who are not as smart as a goat sef. You should be ashamed of yourself if you are Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba, or any other tribe, and you are unable to speak your native languages fluently but would rather speak another country’s language.”
The singer went on to stress the importance of preserving and promoting indigenous languages, stating that while learning foreign languages can be beneficial, it should never come at the cost of one’s own linguistic identity.
He pointed to nations like France and Italy, where citizens take pride in speaking their native languages and do not prioritize English as much as Africans do.
“Don’t get me wrong; it’s good to speak other languages, but don’t make it look like your native language isn’t worth anything. It’s your identity. Go to France; they do not give a damn about English or any other language. Even Italians don’t care about any other language but theirs.”
Onyeabor further highlighted the irony of how Africans ridicule those who struggle with English, while foreigners are praised for attempting to speak African languages.
“But in Nigeria, you will hear people say things like, ‘He/she can’t even speak good English,’ which is a way to insult people. I think it should be the other way round; people should start saying things like, ‘You can’t even speak your language,’ and not insult or abuse anyone who can’t speak another person’s language.”
His statement has since generated widespread reactions, with many supporting his viewpoint, while others argue that fluency in English is essential in a globalized world. Nonetheless, Onyeabor remains firm in his stance, encouraging Africans to reconnect with their roots and take pride in their native languages.