Aproko

Aproko is a word in Nigerian Pidgin that means someone who pokes his/her nose into other people's affairs. It is also used to describe gossip and anyone that is found discussing affairs that has nothing to do with him/her.[1] The word is often used in a pejorative sense, implying that the person is nosy, meddlesome, or intrusive.[2] The word may have originated from the Igbo expression apụrụ okwu, which may mean "someone who talks too much" or "someone who likes trouble" or Yoruba expression àpárò, which may mean "a small bird" .

Aproko
Origin/etymologyNigerian Pidgin; Possibly from Igbo apụrụ okwu or Yoruba àpárò
MeaningSomeone who pokes his/her nose into other people's affairs; gossip; busybody

Etymology

The word "Aproko" is derived from the English word "talkative". It is believed to have originated from the Yoruba language, which is one of the major languages spoken in Nigeria. The term has been used in Nigeria for many years and has gained widespread popularity in recent years.[1]

Meaning and usage

The word aproko has two main meanings in Nigerian Pidgin: someone who pokes his/her nose into other people's affairs; gossip or rumour. The word is often used as a noun or an adjective, and sometimes as a verb. For example:

  • That girl na aproko, she dey always put mouth for wetin no concern her. ("That girl is a busybody, she always interferes in what does not concern her.")
  • Wetin be the aproko wey you hear about our oga? ("What is the gossip that you heard about our boss?")

The word aproko is usually used in a negative or sarcastic way, implying that the person or the information is not trustworthy, reliable, or respectful. The word can also be used to mock or tease someone who is curious or interested in something. For example:

  • Na aproko go kill you o! ("You will die of being nosy o!")
  • You too like aproko, no wonder your ear big like satellite dish. ("You like gossip too much, no wonder your ear is big like a satellite dish.")

The word aproko can also be used as a name for a person, a character, a show, or a brand that is associated with gossip or entertainment. For example:

  • MC Aproko is a Nigerian stand-up comedian who won Next Naija Comedy Star and became the special assistant on entertainment to the governor of Bayelsa State.[3]
  • Aproko 101 is a Nigerian web series that features four friends who share their daily experiences and gossip.
  • Aproko Doctor is a Nigerian health blogger and influencer who gives health tips and advice on social media.[4]

Cultural significance

The word aproko reflects the cultural value of oral tradition and social interaction in Nigeria. Nigerians are known for their love of stories, jokes, and news, which they share with their friends, family, and neighbours. The word aproko also captures the humour and wit of Nigerians, who use the word to make fun of themselves or others. The word aproko also shows the diversity and creativity of Nigerian Pidgin, which is a language that blends elements from different languages and cultures.[5]

However, the word aproko also has some negative connotations, such as being intrusive, disrespectful, or dishonest. The word aproko may be seen as a form of cyberbullying or fake news when it is used to spread false or harmful information online. The word aproko may also be seen as a sign of idle talk or waste of time when it is used to distract or divert attention from more important or productive matters.[5]

Synonyms

The popular synonyms for "Aproko" may include "Amebo", "Olofofo", "Tafia", and "Tatafo", etc.[5][6]

See also

References
  1. Popoola, Temitope (31 May 2016). "20 popular pidgin slangs used in Nigeria and their meanings". Legit.ng – Nigeria news. Retrieved 24 October 2023.
  2. "aproko". Naijalingo. Retrieved 24 October 2023.
  3. Nigeria, Guardian (30 January 2021). "'After Next Naija Comedy Star, real competition has started for me'". The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News. Retrieved 24 October 2023.
  4. Osaji, Sharon (16 January 2023). "Content creator Aproko Doctor reveals battle with brain tumour". Punch Newspapers. Retrieved 24 October 2023.
  5. Agboke, Anuoluwapo (3 October 2018). "15 Popular Nigerian Slangs". Hintnaija. Retrieved 24 October 2023.
  6. February, Logan (18 April 2022). "Eloghosa Osunde: On Our Own Terms". Astra Magazine. Retrieved 24 October 2023.
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