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Difficulty: MediumIndirect Rule System in Western and Eastern Nigeria

In pre-colonial Yoruba political systems, an Oba's executive authority was bound by constitutional checks from councils such as the Oyomesi. Which key alteration made by the British colonial administration under Indirect Rule disrupted this traditional balance of power in Western Nigeria?

  1. A
    Replacing traditional rulers with appointed Warrant Chiefs across Yoruba kingdoms
  2. Elevating the Oba to a 'Sole Native Authority' with unchecked executive powersAnswer
  3. C
    Transferring local judicial authority entirely to Christian missionary tribunals
  4. D
    Abolishing local council institutions and replacing them with direct British military rule

Answer

Elevating the Oba to a 'Sole Native Authority' with unchecked executive powers
In Western Nigeria, the colonial administration adapted Indirect Rule by designating traditional Obas as 'Sole Native Authorities'. This structural change concentrated executive powers in the Oba while eliminating or ignoring traditional institutional checks and balances (such as the Oyomesi and secret societies), making the Oba autocratic and accountable primarily to colonial district officers.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the pre-colonial political structure of Yoruba kingdoms
In pre-colonial Yoruba kingdoms, governance was constitutional and monarchical, where the Oba's power was checked by chiefs, secret societies, and councils such as the Oyomesi.
Understanding pre-colonial governance provides the baseline for identifying colonial modifications.
2
Examine British indirect rule modifications in Western Nigeria
The colonial government established the Oba as the 'Sole Native Authority', giving rulers autocratic power directly accountable to British officers rather than traditional advisory councils.
This policy concentration weakened traditional checks and balances, leading to political friction.

Key Concept

Sole Native Authority in Western Nigerian Indirect Rule
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Topics

Indirect Rule System in Western and Eastern Nigeria