The Impact of British Colonial Administration on Nigeria: The Auchi Kingdom Experience, 1904-1960

Abstract

This research investigates the impact of British colonial administration on Auchi Kingdom in Nigeria. While the primary objective of British imperialism was economic exploitation, the contact nevertheless spurred certain levels of development within the region. The study explores the origin, traditions of the kingdom, and its situation within the Afemai region of Etsako West Local Government Area (LGA) in Edo State, Nigeria. It delves into the distinctive history of Auchi Kingdom, examining its customs, traditions, and interactions with the British over a fifty-six-year period. The research further assesses the socio-political and economic developments that occurred in the kingdom under British colonial administration from 1904 to 1960. The people of Auchi developed complex and stable social, political, and religious institutions under the leadership of King Oshiogbele Momoh Idaoh and subsequent rulers, influenced by their interactions with the British. This dissertation emphasises the continuity of indigenous customs and traditions alongside the introduction of British policies and infrastructural developments during the period. Additionally, the study examines the introduction of Islam and the implementation of colonial policies and their impact on the community. The research reveals that the innovations such as railways and schools that were introduced by the British were to satisfy their own needs but the local people still benefited from them. Interviews were conducted to gather crucial information, and both primary and secondary sources were extensively utilised to ensure robust findings. An interdisciplinary approach was employed in the analysis of the vast amount of information to maintain historical objectivity. The research concludes that Auchi Kingdom has evolved into a significant socio-economic and political force within Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State and Nigeria as a whole, largely due to the impact of British Colonialism despite its exploitative tendencies.