The highest authority in the Yoruba pre-colonial era was the _____

Analyze the question: It asks for the highest authority in the traditional Yoruba political system before colonial rule.

Explain the concept: Yoruba political organisation (especially in Oyo) was monarchical. Each kingdom was headed by an Oba, who was seen as sacred and the representative of the gods (often called Kabiyesi, meaning "none dares question him"). Other bodies supported or checked him:

• Oyomesi: the council of seven chiefs in Oyo, led by the Bashorun. They advised the Alaafin and could check his powers, even asking him to commit suicide (by presenting an empty calabash or parrot's eggs) if he became a tyrant.
• Ogboni: a cult and council of elders that had judicial, religious, and political influence and helped check the Oba's power.
• Balogun: the head of the army (military commander), who was a war chief and not the supreme ruler.

Solution:

1. The question asks for the highest authority, meaning the head of the political system.
2. The Balogun was only a military head, so he is out.
3. The Ogboni and Oyomesi were advisory and checking bodies, so they are not the top authority.
4. The Oba (in Oyo, the Alaafin) was the political, religious, and judicial head of the community. This makes him the highest authority.

Answer: The correct option is B. Oba.

Tip: Remember that the Oyomesi and Ogboni are checks and balances, while the Oba is the head. In exam questions, "highest authority" in a traditional kingdom usually points to the king (Oba/Alaafin in Oyo, Emir in Hausa-Fulani, Obi/Oba in Igbo-Benin areas).