(a) List three features of the Igbo Political system. (b)Identify four democratic tenets of the Igbo Traditional Political system.

Answer Details

(a) Features of the Igbo political system

1. Absence of a central king: the system was decentralised (acephalous), with no paramount ruler over all the Igbo.
2. Village-based autonomy: each village or town governed itself through its own assembly and elders.
3. Rule by council of elders and titled men, supported by the age-grade system.

(b) Democratic tenets of the Igbo traditional political system

1. Popular participation: all adult males had the right to attend the village assembly and take part in decision-making.
2. Decision by consensus and majority feeling: matters were discussed openly until general agreement was reached, so no single person imposed his will.
3. Freedom of speech and expression: every member was free to speak and air his views at the assembly.
4. Rule of law and equality: laws applied to all, and public offices and titles were open to those who qualified through merit and hard work, not by heredity alone.