Theory question 109
Pre-colonial Political SystemsSection B (answer two questions from this section)
Compare the judicial system of the pre-colonial Hausa/Fulani society with that of the Igbo society.
Show the model answer
Hausa/Fulani: centralised system; justice based on Islamic (Sharia) law; Alkalis (Islamic judges) appointed by the Emir tried cases; the Emir was the final court of appeal and could impose severe punishments including death; trained, literate judges.
Igbo: decentralised (acephalous) system; no single ruler; disputes settled by family heads, the council of elders (Ama-ala), age grades, the Ofo holders and title societies (Ozo); justice based on customary law and oracles/deities (e.g. Ibini Ukpabi); decisions by consensus at village assembly; punishments included fines, ostracism and banishment.
Similarities: both aimed to keep order and settle disputes; both had appeal to higher authority (Emir / oracle or larger assembly).
Present the comparison point by point.