One negative effect of colonialism on the people of West Africa over the years is the

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for a negative effect of colonialism on West Africans. So we must eliminate options that describe positive or neutral outcomes.

Step 2: Concept Colonialism brought some benefits, such as Western education, modern administration, roads, and health services. It also did harm, including the disruption of indigenous institutions, exploitation of resources, artificial boundaries, and the weakening of traditional authority and culture.

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Introduction of modern idea of governance: This is generally counted as a positive legacy (e.g., civil service, constitutions, party politics).
• B. Creation of large political units: Colonial amalgamation produced larger states (e.g., Nigeria in 1914). This is usually cited as a positive effect because it promoted unity and bigger markets. (Some argue it forced unlike groups together, but the standard WASSCE view treats it as an advantage.)
• C. Change of the socio-political systems of living: Colonial rule undermined traditional rulers, replaced indigenous political structures with foreign ones (indirect rule, warrant chiefs), and altered the way of life, including culture, religion, and social organisation. This is the negative effect, because it eroded the people's original systems and identity.
• D. Development of political institutions: This is a positive effect, as legislative councils, courts, and electoral systems were established.

Step 4: Answer

Tip: In "negative effect" questions, look for words like change, disruption, destruction, loss, exploitation. Options with words like introduction, creation, development usually signal positive effects.