Perspectives on multilingual practices of some language groups in North East Nigeria

With insights from a sociolinguistic survey of four language groups; Tiv, Chamba, Hausa-Fulani and Jukun, in Taraba south, the study explores the varied interpretations of the meaning and practices of multilingualism in the face of conflict and power struggle. Data for the study were derived through interview and focus group discussions. Information from the study reflects that multilingualism among the groups is determined by the prevailing power positions. To the stronger group, multilingualism is a tool to access power and control over the weaker ones, whereas for the relatively weaker groups, multilingualism serves as a strategy for identity negotiation and survival.