- Source: Ekpeye language
Ekpeye language is one of many languages spoken in Rivers State, Nigeria. According to Roger Blench, Ekpeye is classified as an Igboid language. Although an Igboid language, Ekpeye has evolved to a very distinct Igboid language that is phonologically different from other Igboid languages. The Ogba and Ikwerre languages are closely related to Ekpeye. Ekpeye has many mutually intelligible dialects.
Writing system
Phonology
= Vowels
=Ekpeye has nine vowel phonemes:
The language has no long nasal vowels, no contrast between oral and nasal vowels, and no allophonic variants. The vowels carry tones, as Ekpeye is a tonal language. Ekpeye exhibits active synchronic vowel harmony.
Distribution
Rivers State: Ahoada East, Ahoada West, and Ogba–Egbema–Ndoni LGAs.
Imo State: Ohaji/Egbema LGA