Checks and balances was a feature of pre-colonial political administration of the

Checks and balances was a feature of the pre-colonial political administration of the Yoruba people in what is now modern-day Nigeria. The Yoruba political system was made up of several city-states, each with its own ruler, council of chiefs, and assembly of the people. The system was designed to ensure that no single individual or group had too much power or authority. The ruler, known as the Oba, was advised by a council of chiefs, who were appointed based on their knowledge and experience. The assembly of the people also had a role to play in decision-making, and could challenge the authority of the Oba if they felt he was not acting in the best interests of the community. This system of checks and balances helped to prevent abuse of power and ensure that decisions were made in the best interests of the people. It also helped to foster a sense of community and collective responsibility, as everyone had a stake in the decision-making process. Overall, the pre-colonial Yoruba political system was characterized by a strong sense of tradition, respect for authority, and a commitment to ensuring that power was not concentrated in the hands of a few individuals. The system of checks and balances played a crucial role in ensuring that these values were upheld.