EUROPEAN COLONIZATION AND EROSION OF AFRICA POLITICAL CULTURAL HERITAGE: A COMPARITIIVE ANALYSIS OF PRE-COLONIAL AND COLONIAL YORUBA POLITICAL ADMINISTRATIVE SYSTEM

Abstract

The study examines the profound impact of European colonialism on the political and cultural heritage of the Yoruba people of West Africa. Before the colonization process, the Yoruba had developed an intricate political system that was decentralized as well as democratic and entailed the integration of cultural customs and practices. Through qualitative methods such as focus group discussions (FGDs) and documentary analysis, the research examines the pre-colonial Yoruba governance structure, the changes imposed under British colonial rule, and the extent to which indigenous institutions and customs were eroded. Research findings reveal that the pre-colonial Yoruba system was highly decentralized, involving councils serving as checks on traditional rulers within a dispersed federation of towns, reflecting democratic accountability. The advent of colonialism however led to a centralization of power, limited democratic practices like council oversight functions and suppressed customary laws and traditions. The imposition of English education system undermined the Yoruba language as an important tool and vehicle for cultural transmission. Although resilient in preserving its heritage, the effects of colonialism created challenges for the Yoruba in revitalizing its political autonomy and recouping disregarded customs. Through this study, the colonial impacts on African societies and the complicated nature of cultural persistence alongside pressures of subjugation are illuminated. By examining this case, the research serves to underscore the importance of promoting indigenous governance in Africa as well as cultural preservation.