What were the roles of the traditional rulers in Nigeria in the precolonial era?

Answer Details

In the precolonial era, traditional rulers such as the Obas, Emirs, Obis and other chiefs and kings were the central authority in their communities and combined political, judicial, religious, military and economic roles. Their roles included the following:

1. Executive and administrative role: The traditional ruler was the head of the government of his community. He, together with his council of chiefs, made day to day administrative decisions, appointed subordinate officials and supervised the affairs of the state.
2. Law making (legislative) role: In consultation with his council of elders and title holders, the ruler made laws, bye-laws and regulations that guided the conduct of the people.
3. Judicial role: The ruler served as the highest judge in the land. He settled disputes, tried cases, interpreted customary law and imposed sanctions on offenders, often with his council acting as a court.
4. Religious and spiritual role: The traditional ruler was regarded as the spiritual head and link between the people and their ancestors or gods. He performed sacrifices and led important religious festivals for the well being of the community.
5. Military and defence role: He was the commander in chief who organised the community for defence, declared war, made peace and protected the people and territory against external aggression.
6. Economic and financial role: The ruler controlled land, collected tributes, taxes and tolls, regulated markets and trade, and supervised communal labour and the general economy.
7. Custodian of custom and culture: He preserved and upheld the customs, traditions, norms and values of the people and served as a symbol of unity and identity for the community.
8. Maintenance of law, order and peace: He kept peace, ensured security, and reconciled feuding families and groups within the community.