GBARA AND ERE ORO MUSICAL GENRES AND ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOURS IN IKORODU TOWNSHIP OF LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Apart from modern and western models for discouraging antisocial behaviours in African communities, other traditional mechanisms persist. Aside from serving as important element of social gratification and cohesion, music and traditional songs have often served other purposes such as instrument for criticising antisocial behaviours, crimes, and criminalities. In the light of the foregoing assertions, this paper examines the contributions of folksongs towards dissuading antisocial and indecent activities within Ikorodu township of Lagos State, Nigeria. It specifically focuses on Gbara and Ere Oro traditional musical genre which have contributed enormously to the preservation of the tradition, culture, and history of the people of Ikorodu Township. In addition, the paper examines the traditional methods of intelligence gathering deployed by the Gbara and Ere Oro singers to unravel antisocial behaviours within the area of study. The study adopts a qualitative research methodology and a multi disciplinary approach to data collections and interpretations. It argues that Gbara and Ere Oro musical genre are effective instruments for exposing and discouraging antisocial behaviours and social deviances among the people of Ikorodu township of Lagos State, Nigeria.