Benue State University, Makurdi

Dialectic Analysis of Checks and Balances in the Oyo Empire and Contemporary Nigeria Politics

Simon Jonah Otumala & Olumuyiwa Adebayo Adetunji

Abstract

One distinguishing attribute of the Yoruba traditional political institution was the operation of the doctrine of checks and balances amongst the significant actors in the administration of the Oyo Empire which was Republican in nature and structure. Given the preceding, this paper undertakes an analysis of the practicability of the doctrine in the Oyo Empire, which was expected to be manifest in the suicide order passed on any Alafin that was seen to be despotic and the operation of the doctrine in contemporary Nigerian politics where each organ though enjoy some level independence, their still exist the principle of checks and balances which is presumed to act as check on the powers and activites of the various organs of government that is seen to be manifest in the Oyo empire on any erring Alafin in the institution of the Yoruba kingdom. The study which is qualitative in nature relied on data sourced through internet materials, journals, and articles. It adopts the doctrine of separation of power as the framework of analysis. The problem is, evident in the disparity inherent in applying the doctrine in the respective periods of the Oyo and contemporary politics of Nigeria where institutions of government seem to wield some levels of powers and overbearing influence despite the existence of checks from other organs. It recommends that strict observation of separation of powers as contained in the constitution amongst government institutions is fundamental for applying checks and balances, as evident in the Oyo Empire between the Alaafin and the other chiefs.

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