ln the system of indirect rule in Nigeria, the British officials acted as

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks about the role of British officials (Residents and District Officers) under indirect rule in Nigeria, a system associated with Lord Lugard.

Step 2: Explain the concept Indirect rule was a system in which the British governed through existing traditional rulers and institutions, such as the Emirs in the North and the Obas in the Southwest. The traditional rulers kept their positions and their authority over their people. The British officials did not rule directly. Their job was to supervise and guide.

Under the system:

• Traditional rulers (Emirs, Obas, chiefs) made and enforced local rules and collected taxes through Native Authorities.
• British officials (Residents, District Officers) advised the traditional rulers, supervised how the Native Authorities worked, and made sure British policy was followed.

Step 3: Eliminate the options

• A. Adjudicators: Judging cases was done mainly by Native Courts run by traditional rulers and their appointees, so this is not the main role.
• B. Advisers: This is correct. British officials guided and supervised the traditional rulers.
• C. Chiefs: The chiefs were Nigerians. The British did not take their place.
• D. Councilors: These were members of the local councils, which were African bodies.
• E. Ministers: Ministers belong to a cabinet or executive system, which is not indirect rule.

Step 4: Answer The British officials acted as advisers to the traditional rulers.

Exam tip: Remember "Indirect rule = rule through the chiefs, with British officials as advisers and supervisors." If a question asks who actually governed locally, the answer is the traditional rulers. If it asks about the British role, think "advise and supervise."