A DOCUMENTATION OF ORAL STORIES AND SONGS IN ILAJE DIALECT OF ONDO STATE

ABSTRACT

The use of language in traditional stories and songs is a way of preserving history, culture, and values, and these forms of expression play a role in shaping and maintaining a sense of identity for the Yoruba people.  This study is a focus on the documentation of traditional oral stories and songs in ilajè. The aim of this study is to document the traditional oral stories and songs in Ilajè. The  data for this study was collected using oral interview and documented data collected from primary  source. The method used in carrying out this research was primary source. The data analysis provides valuable insights into the cultural significance of oral stories and songs within the Ilaje community, using the Integrative Ethnolinguistic Documentation theoretical framework. Each story reflects cultural beliefs and practices within the Ilaje community, such as beliefs surrounding death, prayer, and supernatural entities while the Songs expresses cultural values, social commentary, and aspirations within the Ilaje community, fostering a sense of collective identity and pride.

Key words: Documentation, traditional oral stories, songs, Ilajè.