The relevance of Saoty Arẹwà’s music “Ìwà O ̣̀ daràn” in social stability and security challenges in Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the role of Saoty Arẹwà's music, specifically the song Ìwà Ọ̀ daràn, in addressing social stability and security challenges in Nigeria. Despite government efforts and scholarly interventions, insecurity and social instability persist in Nigeria, threatening national stability. Furthermore, numerous scholarly studies have attempted to address these issues, but their efforts have yielded little success. This research explores music as a potential solution, leveraging its ability to influence human behaviour. It investigates music as a possible tool for controlling human behaviour and addressing societal insecurity, hoping to find a sustainable
solution. Specifically, it examines Saoty Arewa's music, "Ìwà O ̣̀ daràn", as a unifying force that can foster social cohesion and institutionalise its positive impact. This study analyses the song "Ìwà O ̣̀ daràn" from Saoty Arewa's music through the theoretical framework of the sociology of literature, to transcribe and interpret the lyrics to reveal their social significance, cultural relevance, and potential impact on listeners. The findings suggest that if musicians from diverse ethnic backgrounds in Nigeria emulate Saoty Arẹwà's approach, creating music with universal appeal that promotes peace and security; it could lead to social stability in the country. It also
concludes that by harnessing the power of music to foster unity and cohesion, Nigeria can potentially overcome its security challenges and achieve lasting peace.