Who was the political head of the Old Oyo Empire?

Analyze the question: It asks for the political head (the supreme ruler) of the Old Oyo Empire, a Yoruba state that was powerful from about the 16th to the 19th century.

Explain the concept: The Old Oyo Empire had a well-organized system of government with checks and balances:

• Alaafin: The king and supreme political head of the empire. He was also seen as the spiritual representative of Shango, the Yoruba god of thunder.
• Oyomesi: A council of seven principal chiefs who advised the Alaafin and could also check his powers.
• Bashorun: The head of the Oyomesi, and the most powerful chief after the Alaafin. He led the council and supervised the Ifa rituals concerning the Alaafin.
• Aremo: The title of the Alaafin's eldest son and heir apparent. When the Alaafin died, the Aremo was expected to die with him, so he did not succeed him.

Step-by-step solution:

1. The question asks for the head of the political structure, which means the king.
2. Bashorun was the head of the council, not of the empire. So A is out.
3. Oyomesi is a group of chiefs, not one individual head. So B is out.
4. Aremo was only the crown prince. So C is out.
5. The Alaafin was the ruler of Oyo, with executive, judicial, and ceremonial authority. This matches D.

Answer: D. Alaafin

Exam tip: Remember the chain of power: Alaafin (king) → Oyomesi (council) → Bashorun (head of council) → Aremo (crown prince). If a question says "head of the empire" or "king" in Oyo, think Alaafin. If it says "head of the council," think Bashorun.