The Impact of Colonial Rule and Contemporary Political Context in Nigeria.To complete this step, your essay and research should, at the very least, include answers, rationales, and insights into the following questions regarding your country.

QUESTION

Completing Project Steps

Project STEP 1

To complete this step, your essay and research should, at the very least, include answers, rationales, and insights into the following questions regarding your country. Organize your work into a readable and persuasive essay. Do not provide one-line answers to the questions below.

1. Basic information about your country of study:

• What is the name of the country you are researching? What was its name prior to colonial rule?
• What is the capital city of the country being researched? Did the capital city change its name after colonial rule?
• Briefly describe the country you are researching to indicate its geographical location and topography (e.g., tropical, desert, savanna, mountainous or a combination).

2. Colonial history of your country of study:

• Which European colonial power ruled this territory and when?
• What was the nature and type of colonial rule in the country you are researching?
• How did colonial occupation impact the following?
  • local political structures;
  • social and cultural institutions (e.g., land ownership, marriage, inheritance, gender relations, etc.);
  • traditional religions and/or spiritual practices;
  • the economy
• What were the two major events during colonialoccupation that catalyzed the process of independence?
• When (the date) did the country gain independence? Who became the leader of the country at independence? How is independence celebrated in contemporary society?

3. Current political context:

• What type of political system was introduced immediately after independence, and what changes were made in the twodecades after independence?
• Explain how the politics of the country have changed over the last twenty years.
• Who is the present leader of your assigned country?
• What is the current political system in place? Name the main political parties.
• When were the last elections held, and what was the outcome, that is, which political party gained power and which political party ceded power (if relevant)?
• How did the contending parties, the populace, the media, and election observers react to the election results?
• When is the next election scheduled to be held?
• Assess the state of the political system and the role of the media in the country you are researching.
• What is the current relationship between the U.S. and your assigned country?

4. Conclusion:

Using all the data you have collected and the analyses you have conducted pertaining to the above questions, write a conclusion addressing how the current political context in your country of study has not only been influenced by colonial rule but also by African regional political developments and the international political context.

5. Other Requirements:

• Referencing: Evidential Proof of sources used:Paper should be supported by evidence and quotations from sources. At least three sources with APA citation at the bottom of the report, Variation in selection of sources
• Organization of text:Well organized, detailed and logical/cohesive arguments addressing relevant issues.

ANSWER

The Impact of Colonial Rule and Contemporary Political Context in Nigeria

Introduction

Nigeria, formerly known as the Niger Coast Protectorate and later the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria, is the country under study. Its capital city is Abuja, which did not undergo a name change after colonial rule. Nigeria is located in West Africa and is characterized by a diverse geographical landscape encompassing tropical rainforests, savannas, and coastal regions. In this essay, we will explore the influence of colonial rule on Nigeria’s political structures, social institutions, religions, and economy. We will also delve into the country’s struggle for independence, subsequent political developments, and its current political context.

Colonial History

Nigeria was colonized by the British, who held control over the territory from the late 19th century until independence in 1960. The nature of colonial rule in Nigeria was predominantly indirect rule, a system whereby the British utilized local traditional leaders as intermediaries between the colonial administration and the population. This approach aimed to maintain social order and economic exploitation while minimizing direct intervention. However, the British also established direct rule in some regions, particularly in the south where they faced significant resistance to their authority.

The impact of colonial occupation in Nigeria was profound and far-reaching. In terms of local political structures, the British transformed traditional leadership systems by selecting and empowering specific individuals as warrant chiefs or native authorities, leading to the marginalization of other traditional rulers. This created divisions and tensions within communities that persist to this day. Additionally, the introduction of colonial borders disrupted pre-existing political entities, leading to conflicts and ethnic tensions.

Socially and culturally, colonial rule brought significant changes. Land ownership was redefined, with the British introducing private land ownership and land taxes, displacing indigenous communal land practices. British colonial policies also influenced marriage and inheritance laws, introducing a legal framework that favored individual rights over communal norms. Similarly, gender relations were altered as women’s roles and positions in society were redefined by Western ideals.

Traditional religions and spiritual practices were undermined by the influence of Christianity brought by the British colonizers. Missionaries actively sought to convert Nigerians, leading to a decline in indigenous religious practices. This resulted in cultural erosion and the loss of spiritual traditions, although some elements of syncretism between indigenous beliefs and Christianity remain.

Economically, colonial rule transformed Nigeria’s economic structure. The British exploited Nigeria’s resources, particularly palm oil, rubber, and later, crude oil. This led to the development of a mono-export economy heavily dependent on primary commodities. The colonial administration also imposed heavy taxation, causing significant economic hardships for the local population.

The two major events during colonial occupation that catalyzed the process of independence were the rise of nationalist movements and the Nigerian independence movement’s efforts to gain self-governance. The first significant event was the formation of the Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM) in the 1930s, which advocated for nationalist ideals and demanded increased representation for Nigerians in the colonial administration. The second event was the establishment of political parties, such as the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) and the Action Group (AG), which mobilized Nigerians towards independence.

Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1960. Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa became the country’s first Prime Minister. Independence is celebrated in contemporary Nigerian society through various festivities, including parades, cultural exhibitions, and speeches that highlight the country’s achievements and aspirations.

Current Political Context:
After independence, Nigeria adopted a parliamentary system of government. However, over the next two decades, the country witnessed significant political changes. In 1966, a series of military coups occurred, leading to a period of military rule. Nigeria experienced a civil war from 1967 to 1970, known as the Biafra War, which further destabilized the political landscape. In 1999, Nigeria transitioned back to civilian rule with the adoption of a presidential system of government.

The present leader of Nigeria is President Muhammadu Buhari, who assumed office in 2015. Nigeria operates under a federal presidential system, with power divided between the federal government and 36 states. The main political parties in Nigeria are the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), which have been dominant since the return to civilian rule.

The last elections in Nigeria were held in February 2019, and the outcome resulted in President Muhammadu Buhari’s re-election for a second term. The APC retained power, while the PDP was the main opposition party. The contending parties, populace, media, and election observers had mixed reactions to the election results. While some praised the process as relatively peaceful, concerns were raised about irregularities, voter suppression, and violence in certain regions.

The next election in Nigeria is scheduled to be held in 2023, marking another crucial moment for the country’s political landscape.

Assessment and Conclusion:
The political context in Nigeria today has been shaped not only by colonial rule but also by African regional political developments and the international political context. The legacy of colonialism is evident in Nigeria’s political structures, social institutions, religious landscape, and economic challenges. The introduction of Western systems and the disruption of traditional practices have had lasting effects, contributing to ongoing tensions and struggles for power.

Furthermore, Nigeria’s political journey has been influenced by regional dynamics, such as the formation of regional political parties and conflicts arising from ethnic and religious divisions. Additionally, international pressures, economic interests, and diplomatic relationships have impacted Nigeria’s political trajectory, particularly in relation to resource exploitation, trade, and security.

In conclusion, Nigeria’s colonial history has had a profound impact on its political, social, cultural, and economic landscape. Although the country gained independence in 1960, its journey towards political stability and social cohesion has been complex and challenging. The present political context reflects a mix of progress, setbacks, and ongoing struggles for power and representation. To navigate these challenges successfully, Nigeria must address historical legacies, promote inclusive governance, and foster economic development while actively engaging with regional and international actors to ensure a prosperous future.