WAEC Government 2013 Theory — Question 7

Model answer

The functions of the Emir in the Hausa/Fulani political system are as follows: I. Making laws: The Emir, as both the political and administrative head of the emirate, made laws for the emirate especially on areas not covered by the Sharia law. II. Taxation: The Emirs in the Hausa/Fulani political system raised money through taxation. They imposed taxes on their subjects as a way of generating revenue for public works. III. Settlement of disputes: Disputes involving cases not covered by Islamic laws were referred to the Emir for adjudication because Sharia laws deal only with civil cases. Example of such disputes is criminal and land cases. IV. Appointment of officials: The appointment of officials of the emirates is another function performed by the Emirs in the Hausa/Fulani political system. Those officials as the Waziri (Prime-minister), Madawaki (Commander in chief of the armed forces) etc. were appointed by the Emir. V. Executive function: The Emir as the political head of the emirate performed executive roles such as seeing to the day to day administration of the emirate. The emir was responsible for the maintenance of law and order. VI. Ceremonial functions: The Emir performed ceremonial functions during important festivals.