WAEC Government 2010 Theory — Question 10

Model answer

Roles of traditional rulers in pre-colonial West Africa: (i) Making laws: most of the traditional rulers in pre-colonial West Africa performed both executive and legislative roles. As the political head of their domain, the traditional rulers made laws which their subjects had to obey. (ii) Taxation or payment of tribute: traditional rulers in the pre-colonial era raised money and other resources through taxation. They imposed taxes on their subjects or demanded tribute. Through taxation and tribute, the traditional rulers maintained their control over their subjects. (iii) Settlement of disputes: disputes between and among the people were brought before traditional rulers in pre-colonial West Africa for judgement. In this way, the traditional rulers performed the role of the judiciary. (iv) Appointment of local chiefs: another role which traditional rulers in the pre-colonial era perform is appointing subordinate chiefs to administer their domains. (v) Ceremonial functions: the traditional rulers in the pre-colonial era performed ceremonial functions during important festive celebrations. Their presence is required for the staging of festive celebrations. (vi) Administration of their domain: the traditional rulers during the pre-colonial era in West Africa were responsible for the day to day running of their territories within their domain.