(a) Describe colonialism. (b) Highlight five powers of the British Governor in any one West African colony.

Answer Details

(a) Meaning of colonialism

Colonialism is the policy and practice by which a powerful nation acquires, controls and administers a weaker territory (a colony) and its people, exploiting its human and material resources for the benefit of the colonising power. Under colonialism the colony loses its sovereignty and independence and is governed from outside, its economy, politics and social life being subordinated to the interests of the mother country. In West Africa, Britain, France, Portugal and Germany established colonies which they ruled through systems such as indirect rule, assimilation and association.

(b) Five powers of the British Governor (using Nigeria as the West African colony)

1. Executive powers: The Governor was the head of the colonial administration who supervised all departments of government, appointed and dismissed officials and carried out the policies of the British Crown.
2. Legislative powers: He presided over the Legislative Council, initiated bills, and could enact laws and ordinances for the colony; his assent was required before any bill became law.
3. Power of veto and reservation: He could refuse assent to (veto) bills passed by the Council or reserve them for the pleasure of the Crown, thereby controlling legislation.
4. Emergency and reserve powers: In times of emergency the Governor could rule by decree, suspend the constitution and take any measure he considered necessary for peace, order and good government.
5. Judicial powers (prerogative of mercy): He could establish courts, appoint judges, and exercise the prerogative of mercy by pardoning, reprieving or commuting the sentences of convicted persons.
6. Control of finance: He supervised the colonial budget and public revenue and expenditure, and his approval was needed for financial measures.
7. Appointment of members: He nominated the official and unofficial members of the Legislative and Executive Councils.