The Yoruba traditional system of government was monarchical. The Yoruba people of West Africa had a system of government in which a king or queen, known as an Oba, ruled over the people and made decisions for the kingdom. The Oba was believed to have a divine right to rule and was considered the highest authority in the land. The monarchy was a system of government that was passed down through the royal family and was supported by a council of elders and other important members of the community.