ABSTRACT
This study is A comparative analysis of tones in Onitcha, Nsukka, Ogbaru, idemili, mbise and ukwani dialect of Igbo language . This research work employed the Ibadan wordlist, where out of the 400 words in the list, 151 words were selected and analyzed. This researcher collected primary data from oral interview which was also audio-recorded to help in analyzing the data and ensure accurate transcription, and the secondary data which was collected from various sources, including literature, official documents, and traditional texts through note taking. Using a comparative analysis approach, the research examines the tonal patterns, phonological processes, and linguistic factors that influence tonal variation across the dialects. The findings of this study reveal a significant degree of tonal diversity across the six dialects. Each dialect exhibits a unique tonal system, characterized by distinct tonal patterns, phonological processes, and linguistic features. For instance, the Onitsha dialect is distinguished by its use of high tones, while the Nsukka dialect is characterized by its use of low tones. Similarly, the Ogbaru dialect exhibits a complex tonal system, with a combination of high, low, and rising tones. The study contributes to the broader field of linguistics, providing insights into the complex relationships between tone, language, and culture.
