Crime and Deviant Behaviour Expositions in Proverbial Analysis of Yoruba Traditional Knowledge

Abstract

The daily usage of proverbs in Yoruba society is gradually going into extinction especially among the younger generation. This paper, therefore, examines the uses of proverbs to discuss some selected criminal and deviant behaviours within Yoruba traditional knowledge. Twenty – four proverbs were selected using purposive sampling method under non – probability sampling technique. This involved eight proverbs on theft / stealing; nine proverbs on laziness; four proverbs on non – hygienic and five proverbs on adultery. The proverbs were presented in indigenous Yoruba language but were also translated into English language for proper understanding of the non – Yoruba readers. The proverbs were explained and the lessons they thought were elucidated for the proper understanding and possible use of the readers.

The paper recommended encouragement of daily usage of Yoruba indigenous proverbs in every – day communications; especially among young adults in Yoruba society, to prevent extinction of proverbs. It also recommended the proper and constant usage of proverbs on media and other public places. Finally, proper documentations of indigenous proverbs through educational channels were also recommended.