Islamic concept of music communication in street begging performance: A study of Babiyala in Ilorin Metropolis. (1st December 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Oghenevwarho, Ojakovo Gabriel
• Is Part Of: Performing Islam. Volume 2:Number 2(2013)
• Page Start: 145
• Page End: 163
• Publication Date: 2013-12-01
• Subjects: Performing arts -- Islamic countries -- Periodicals; Islamic countries -- Social life and customs -- Periodicals; 700.48297
• DOI: 10.1386/pi.2.2.145_1
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2043-1015

Abstract

This study examines the Islamic perspective of musical renditions by babiyala/for the sake of God itinerant musicians as a communicative tool in street-begging performance in Ilorin Metropolis. In this respect, we use, primarily, the observation, descriptive and interview methods for the study. Relevant secondary sources such as journals, books, newspapers and the Internet are used to complement the primary sources. Findings from this study therefore prove that music has been a veritable communication medium adopted by the babiyala itinerant musicians as a measure to be noticed by their benefactors, who in turn give alms to them. Islam, the dominant religion in Ilorin metropolis, plays a major role in appreciating their performance through alms giving to meet their daily needs. The law made by the state government illegalizing the activities of itinerant musicians both skilled and unskilled who source for alms publicly from members of the public is not a practical solution to these vices. It also proves that, despite this law, the rate of street begging is on the increase. We therefore conclude that the state, through the National Directorate of Employment Labour and Productivity, should create a scheme aimed at empowering abled babiyala itinerate musicians who form part of the majority of them in Ilorin metropolis. This can be achieved by developing them in the area of musical skills that will enable them to be self-reliant. This, when implemented, will markedly reduce their numbers and give them a place in the social stratification.