Observation

This was an unpopular question and the candidates that answered it score below average. The candidates that responded simply described the process of conquering the caliphate and not the ways used in conquering it. Candidates were expected to mention the following points in order to get good marks.

(i) The use of the army.
(ii) The conquest of Emirates one after the other.
(iii) The use of divide and rule strategy.
(iv) They did not tamper with Islam but discouraged Christian missionaries from operating in order to avoid mass reaction from the people.
(v) Reduction of the power of the Caliph.
(vi) The deposition of rebellious Emirs.
(vii) Retention of Fulani dynasties.