The Igbo polity and pre-colonial administration have been described by scholars as headless, that is, leaderless, leaderless or headless. This term is considered appropriate to describe the pre-colonial Igbo political system as it was decentralized and based on direct and village democracy in which everyone had the power to participate in decision-making. Council of Elders Each Igbo village was considered a political unit inhabited by related families who shared a common faith and ancestry. The head of each family in the village was called “Ofo” and together they formed a council of elders. The Council of Elders managed important matters such as village welfare, security, development, etc. Okpara In the council of elders one was recognized as an elder. His name was Okpara. He could call and adjourn meetings and make decisions. The Council of Elders was considered the earthly representative of the Igbo ancestors.
They have retained the centuries-old customs, traditions and laws in force in this country.These include laws that prohibit inappropriate behavior or immoral actions and impose appropriate sanctions on perpetrators. Age Class Another important institution in the pre-colonial Igbo polity was the age class. Students of the same age group took part in the age group. The older age group maintained peace and order in the village and provided security to ward off outside attacks, while the younger age group focused on community hygiene and other necessary tasks. The peer was also responsible for the administration of the village and had a supervisory role over the council of elders and other administrative bodies. Ozo titleholders The next level in pre-colonial Igbo political administration was that of “Ozo” titleholders. This expensive title was given to the rich and influential men of the city who, after winning this title, were recognized and could then lead meetings with the village elders. Priests The priests were also not excluded from the administration of the village. Great importance was attached to them because, among other things, they were considered spokesmen for the gods, Long Juju Aro. The Council of Elders also consulted the priests on matters that exceeded their means, that is, that required spiritual intervention. Therefore, various institutions were constantly involved in the administration of the Igbo community and powers were distributed equally among them.
In conclusion, the pre-colonial political system of Igboland is similar to the modern republican system of government in which the people are governed by their consent.
