The head of the palace in the pre-colonial Hausa system is?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the title of the person who headed the palace in the pre-colonial Hausa political system. The key word is "palace."

Step 2: Understand the concept In Hausa land, the Emir (Sarki) ruled with the help of title-holding officials. "Sarki" means "chief" or "head," and the title that follows tells you the person's area of responsibility:

• Sarkin Dawaki: head of the cavalry or horsemen
• Sarkin Gida: head of the household or compound (a village or family head, not the palace)
• Sarkin Fada: head of the palace, or "Chief of the Court." Fada means "palace" or "court." He was in charge of palace administration, controlled access to the Emir, and managed the Emir's attendants.
• Sarkin Ruwa: head of the water, usually the chief of fishermen or water transport

Step 3: Solve Match the word in the question to the title:

• "Palace" matches fada
• So the head of the palace is Sarkin Fada

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C. Sarkin Fada.

Tip: Link each title to its second word:

• Dawaki = horses
• Gida = house or home
• Fada = palace
• Ruwa = water

"Fada" sounds like "Father's court," and the palace is the Emir's court. Other Hausa titles to remember for exams: Sarkin Yaki (war commander), Sarkin Pawa (head of butchers), Sarkin Kasuwa (head of the market), and Galadima (administrator of the capital).