Classwork Exercise and Series (Government- SS1): Indirect Rule

Indirect Rule

Indirect rule is a system of administration in which the British colonial government adopted as its colonial policy in dealing with the people by using the traditional rulers, the traditional political institutions while the British officials mainly advised and where necessary, enforced colonial regulations.

Indirect Rule in Northern Nigeria

One of the reasons for the adoption of indirect rule was for the purpose of local government along traditional lines. The system rested upon Native courts and Native authority ordinances. The protectorate of Northern Nigeria was divided into six provinces and each under a British official known as residents.

Merits of Indirect Rule

1. There respect for the peoples tradition and culture.
2. It is very economical.
3. Indirect rule administration was a fertile ground for training of traditional rulers.
4. Indirect t rule system is more accommodating.
5. It developed traditional institutions.
6. There is stability in the political system.
7. It helps in introducing a new method of collecting taxes.

Demerits of Indirect Rule

• It excluded educated Nigerians in the administration.
• Indirect rule was only an instrument of maintaining status.
• Most of the traditional rulers were involved in evil practices.
• Functions of the traditional rulers were not clearly defined and so they abused their positions.
• Indirect rule system was imposed on the people.
• It can only succeed in a centralized system of government.
• Democratic rights of the people were abused.

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