Oke ite as anti-human capital development: A Thematic analysis of the song “Ndi Oke ite akalia”
Conference: ISA 22nd Annual International Conference (2025)
Presenter(s): Bibian Ugoala
Tags: 2025 Nigeria Abuja Bibian Ugoala National Open University of Nigeria
Abstract
The quest for quick wealth by the younger generation in the South east is becoming worrisome as youths engage in vices like “Okeite” rituals and sacrifices to get quick wealth without hard work. Some societal vices are exposed and brought to the fore through medium like music. This study aims to examine how the craze for quick wealth is encoded in the lyrics of the song titled “Ndi oke ite Akalia” by Prince Chijioke Mbanefo from South east Nigeria. The song digs into the diabolical actions of internet fraudsters, stimulating reflection on the effects in the digital age. The song which served as data for this study was downloaded from the internet and transcribed, only the words of the song were transcribed. The thematic analysis focuses on patterns through which themes were derived, and how frequently the themes occurred in the song to foreground their importance. The research questions which this research provides answers to are: what are the themes in the song that show Oke ite as anti-human capital development, and how are the dangers of youths engaging in Oke ite encoded in the lyrics of the song? The findings of the study show that the alien culture of engaging in Oke ite imbibed by Igbo youths as revealed by the lyrics of the song are seriously against human capital development; as the involvement in Oke ite distracts one from harnessing ones hidden inner potentials which Igbos youths had been known for. The study recommends that societal vices should not be swept under the carpet; they should be criticized in mediums like songs in order to deter youths from engaging in them. The study concludes that music is a potent tool through which societal vices can be corrected; Igbo youths should not be swayed into getting rich quick through diabolical means.
1 views