Question

SECTION B — Answer two questions only from this section.
6. The kingmakers in the Yoruba Pre-colonial political system were known by various names: In Oyo, they were called Oyomesi, in Ijebu land, they were known as Osogbo. State the functions performed by the Kingmakers in the pre-colonial Yoruba political system. (12 marks)

Accepted Answer

i. The kingmakers in the pre-colonial Yoruba political system were responsible for installing a new king after the demise of his predecessor.
ii. The kingmakers served as an advisory council to the king; they advised the king on the governance of the community.
iii. The kingmakers also assisted in the administration of the community, through the role they played in ensuring that the king's laws and other directives were obeyed by all.
iv. They also made laws in conjunction with the king for the good governance of the community.
v. The kingmakers acted as the judicial organ of the land on certain matters, especially minor disputes that required arbitration.
vi. As one of the institutions of the pre-colonial Yoruba political system, the kingmakers acted as a check on the powers and excesses of the King.

WAEC Government 2014 Theory — Question 8

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