Observation

This question was popular among the candidates, as many of them attempted it. The candidates who attempted it performed very well. Most did not say anything about the Kankanfo heading the Esos (Royal guard).

A. (i) To lead military campaigns as warlord as directed by the Alafin.

(ii) To ensure the effectiveness of the army.
(iii) To protect the northern frontier of the Empire.
(iv) To ensure that vassal states did not revolt against the Alafin.
(v) He headed the Eso (Royal Guards).

B. (i) They represented the voice of the people.

(ii) They checked the excessive power of the Alafin.
(iii) They helped to formulate policies for the empire.
(iv) They appointed new Alafin if the reining one died/ deposed
(v) Invested with the power to depose an Alafin if found autocratic.
(vi) They served as advisers to the Alafin.
(vii) The Bashorun who was the head of the Oyo Mesi consulted the Ifa for approval of the gods on sensitive issues.