The British policy of did not work among the Igbo because they lived in autonomous villages that lacked a?

The British policy of indirect rule did not work among the Igbo because they lived in autonomous villages that lacked a centralized political structure.

Here's why:

* Decentralized System: The Igbo society was highly decentralized. They had a system of village-based governance with no single overarching authority like a king or emperor.

* Autonomous Villages: Each village was largely self-governing, with its own council of elders and chiefs who held significant power.

* Lack of Centralized Authority: This decentralized structure meant there was no clear leader or institution the British could easily co-opt or work with.

* Resistance to Indirect Rule: The Igbo were fiercely independent and resistant to external control. The imposition of a system that relied on traditional rulers was met with suspicion and opposition.

The British ultimately had to resort to more direct forms of administration in Igbo areas, leading to conflicts and ultimately the Biafran War.