Theory question 106
Colonial AdministrationSection B: Political and Constitutional Developments in West Africa and International Relations
How did the people of any one British West African territory govern themselves before the advent of colonial rule?
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Choose one, e.g. Nigeria (Hausa/Fulani, Yoruba or Igbo) or Ghana (Ashanti).
Example, Yoruba (Oyo): the Alaafin as political head, with religious and executive roles; Oyomesi (council of kingmakers led by the Bashorun) advised and checked him; the Ogboni checked the Oyomesi; the Are-Ona-Kakanfo led the army; quarters and villages under Baales; laws made by the Alaafin-in-council; disputes settled at family, quarter and palace courts; revenue from tributes, tolls and taxes; a ruler who lost support could be told to abdicate (empty calabash / parrot's eggs).
(Similar detail is acceptable for the Hausa/Fulani emirates or the Igbo acephalous system.)
Describe one territory's system in depth.