WAEC Government 2021 Theory — Question 6

Model answer

(a) Institutions in Yoruba pre-colonial political system of administration: i. The Royalty (Afin). ii. The Kingmakers (Oyomesi). iii. Cult (Ogboni). (Also: The Osi Efa, The Oni Efa, The Otun Efa, Army (Are onakankanfo).) (b) Checks and balances in Yoruba pre-colonial political system: i. Taboo: meant to curb some unethical practices among the chiefs. ii. Oath of office: this is done to guarantee loyalty among the chiefs. iii. The traditional three arms of government (Oba/Oyomesi/Ogboni) checked one another. iv. The oracle (Ifa) made predictions and advised on precautionary measures. (Also: an occult calabash (igba-iwa) to check mate abuse of power by the Oba, impeachment/dethronement, exile/banishment, boycotts, suicide by erring chiefs/Obas, revolts/demonstrations against autocratic Oba.)