Non-Centralized States

The following are some of the characteristics of non-centralized states in pre-colonial era in Nigeria

[1] different governing units existed in the states; There were different bodies that helped in the administration of these states,each state had its peculiar governing structure.

[2]Age grade systems were used in most of the state; This was very common in the Igbo and some Niger Delta –city states,

[3]decision making were in the hands of elders; The elders most often took major decisions in many of these states,

[4]power distribution; political powers were distributed among various units such as age grade,council of elders,secret societies,etc,in most cases the king did not have final say in decision making,

[5] existence of secret societies and cults; In many of the pre-colonial states secret societies and cults played significant roles in political administration

ADVANTAGES OF NON CENTRALISED STATES;

1]It prevents misuse of power

2]it encourages everyone to participate in govern,ment

3]it brings government close to the people

4]it gives people at the grassroots sense of belonging

5]it grooms people at the grassroots for future leadership role.

DISADVANTAGES OF NON- CENTRALIZED STATES;

1]It increases cost of governance

2]corrupt politicians at the grass roots may mismanage funds

3]it may bring about tribalism and ethnicity

4]it may retard growth of areas with immature and inexperienced political leaders

5]The entire nation may become weak politically

EXAMPLES OF NON-CENTRALIZED STATES IN PRECOLONIAL NIGERIA

TIV, IDOMA, EBIRA, IGBO,URHOBO,IJO[IJAW], ORO[ORON] IBIBIO, ANAANG

CLASSWORK;

1]state three advantages of non centralized states

2]state two disadvantages of non-centralized states

3] mention six examples of non-centralized states in pre-colonial Nigeria

ASSIGNMENT;

Identify the location of TIV on the map of Nigeria