What were the functions of the colonial Governor in British West Africa?

Answer Details

The colonial Governor was the chief representative of the British Crown in each West African colony. His functions included the following:

1. Chief executive: He was the head of the colonial administration and was responsible for the general government of the territory.
2. Representative of the Crown: He represented the British monarch and government and carried out imperial policy in the colony.
3. Law-making: He presided over the Legislative Council and could initiate, assent to or veto laws (ordinances); he could also legislate by proclamation.
4. Appointments: He appointed and controlled senior colonial officials and nominated members into the Legislative and Executive Councils.
5. Maintenance of law and order: He was responsible for internal security and controlled the police and armed forces in the colony.
6. Financial control: He supervised the preparation and execution of the colonial budget and controlled public revenue and expenditure.
7. Prerogative of mercy: He could pardon, reprieve or commute the sentences of convicted persons.
8. Reserve and veto powers: He could override the councils and use his reserve powers in matters he considered vital to imperial interests.
9. Reporting: He reported regularly to the Secretary of State for the Colonies in London.