A popular British colonial system of administration in the protectorates in West Africa was

The popular British colonial system of administration in the protectorates in West Africa was indirect rule. This system involved the use of local rulers or traditional authorities to govern on behalf of the British colonial government. These local rulers were given power and authority to enforce British laws and policies within their communities. The colonial government would provide support and guidance, but the local rulers were responsible for the day-to-day administration of their communities. This system was seen as a cost-effective way of governing, as it relied on existing structures and authorities, and it allowed the British to exert control over the region without the need for a large colonial bureaucracy. However, it also had some negative consequences, as it reinforced traditional power structures and undermined the development of democratic institutions.