Theory question 107
Colonial AdministrationIdentify any four features of the policy of Indirect Rule in West Africa.
Show the model answer
Model answer
Any four:
1. Use of traditional rulers (chiefs/emirs) to govern the people.
2. Native Authorities set up, with Native Courts and Native Treasuries.
3. British officers (Residents/District Officers) supervised and advised the chiefs.
4. Local customs, laws and religion were largely kept.
5. Chiefs collected taxes for the colonial government.
6. Warrant chiefs were appointed where there were no recognised chiefs (e.g. Eastern Nigeria).
7. Final authority rested with the British colonial government.
Explanation
Indirect rule = British rule through existing traditional institutions, introduced by Lord Lugard.