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| Nayiri - Overlord of Mamprusi |
Political Organization of the Mole-Dagbani
The Mole-Dagbani consisted of the Mamprusi, The Dagomba, the Nanumba and the Mossi of Burkina Faso.
1. Supreme Ruler
At the head of each Mole-Dagbani states was a supreme ruler or a paramount chief who was a hereditary monarch. The supreme ruler of the Mamprusi bears the title “Nayiri” whilst that of the Dagomba is called the “Ya-Na”. In the Gonja states, the supreme ruler is known as the “Yagbumwura”. Their symbol of chieftaincy was the skin. The rulers were responsible for giving laws, declaring war or peace and administrative justice.
2. Council of Elder
The supreme ruler was assisted in his administration by a council of elders which has power to advise the king and the divisional chiefs in the performance of their functions. They include the “Tarana”, “the Wudana”, the “Kpanarana”, and “Sakpanaba”. There was also a judicial council of elders which had the responsibility of sorting out pressing issues of the state.
3. Division/Sub-Chiefs
The king of a Mole-Dagbani state was also helped in the administration of the state by some divisional chiefs who were five in number. The divisional chiefs were responsible for the various divisions and each of them had a council that consisted of Sub-chiefs and village headmen.
4. Court of Appeal
Besides, the Mole-Dagbani states ensured that justice prevailed. Each paramount chief exercised the function of the final court of appeal. He was assisted by his court officials and he could also judge cases himself. As far as justice was concerned, they applied both natural and supernatural methods in the trial of cases in the states.
5. Tindana
The Tindana was
regarded as the custodian of the land. He also wielded great influence among
the people. For example, he led his people during the annual festivities. The
office of the Tindana was even consulted on matters of importance and also
played an important role in the installation of a paramount chief.
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