The non-stratified society in the pre-colonial era was that of the ........ where decisions were made________

Analyze the question The question asks which pre-colonial society was non-stratified (it had no rigid class or hierarchy of rulers). It also asks how decisions were made in that society.

Explain the concept

• A stratified society has a clear hierarchy of authority, with a king or emir at the top, then chiefs, nobles, and commoners. The Hausa/Fulani (emirate system) and the Yoruba (Oba and Oyomesi in Oyo) are examples.
• A non-stratified (acephalous, or stateless) society has no centralized ruler. Authority is spread out among lineage heads, village assemblies, age grades, and title holders. The traditional Igbo society is the classic example.

Step-by-step solution

• A. Yoruba, by the Oyomesi. The Yoruba had a centralized monarchy (the Alaafin and the Oyomesi council), so this is stratified. ❌
• B. Igbo, by consensus. The Igbo were largely non-stratified. Decisions were made through village assemblies, councils of elders, and the Ohanaeze, where people discussed an issue until they reached general agreement. ✔
• C. Hausa/Fulani, by the Emir. This was a centralized, hierarchical system under the Emir, so it is stratified. ❌
• D. Igbo, by the Okpara. The Igbo are correct, but decisions were not made by one person. The Okpara (the eldest son or lineage head) had authority only within the family or lineage, not over the whole society. ❌

Answer The Igbo were the non-stratified society, and decisions were made by consensus.

Exam tip Remember: Igbo = "Republic" or acephalous, Hausa/Fulani = Emirs, Yoruba = Obas. If the question says "non-stratified," "stateless," or "acephalous," think Igbo. Then look for the option that describes collective decision-making (consensus, assembly, council of elders), not one ruler.