* No single ruler or king: Power was not concentrated in the hands of a single individual.
* Autonomous villages: Each village was essentially self-governing, with its own council of elders responsible for decision-making.
* Rotating leadership: Leaders were often chosen for specific tasks or periods, with no permanent positions.
* Emphasis on consensus: Decisions were made through discussions and consensus among the elders.
Key features of the Igbo political system:
* Age grades: Young men were organized into age grades, which provided a structure for training and social control, and also played a role in politics.
* Ofo: This was a sacred staff, symbol of authority and legitimacy, held by certain individuals in the community.
* Title societies: These were groups that required financial contributions and served as a way of advancing in society and gaining influence.
* Oracles and deities: Oracles and deities played a significant role in resolving disputes and guiding decisions.
Important points to remember:
* The Igbo system was not completely egalitarian, and there were differences in status and influence based on wealth, lineage, and other factors.
* While there was no central authority, the Igbo had complex mechanisms for resolving conflicts and maintaining order within and between villages.
* This decentralized system proved remarkably resilient, as it allowed the Igbo to adapt to changing circumstances and resist external forces, such as the early European colonial efforts.
The Igbo political system was unique and reflected their cultural values of individual freedom, self-reliance, and collective decision-making. It served as an effective form of government for centuries before the arrival of the British in the late 19th century.