Trial by Ordeal in Togo

In West Africa, traditional justice systems coexist with official courts. In a village in Togo, a farmer named Agba accuses Niiko of theft. With no evidence, they undergo a trial by ordeal, where both must retrieve a ring from boiling oil. Agba succeeds, but Niiko confesses under pressure. Niiko must replace the stolen yams, pay a fine, and offer a ram to the chief, highlighting the severe yet culturally significant justice practices.

What is the primary role of local chiefs in the justice system of West Africa?

• To manage trade and commerce

• To rule in criminal matters

• To conduct religious ceremonies

• To oversee agricultural activities

What method is used to determine guilt or innocence in the trial by ordeal?

• A written confession

• A lie detector test

• A trial by boiling oil

• A trial by jury

Why do the town elders decide to use boiling oil in the trial?

• Because there is no hard evidence

• Because it is a tradition

• Because it is quicker than a jury trial

• Because it is less expensive

What is the significance of the trial by ordeal in the village of Kabo?

• It is a form of entertainment

• It is a last resort for justice

• It is a common daily practice

• It is a way to celebrate festivals

What must Agba and Niiko do during the trial by ordeal?

• Recite a prayer

• Retrieve a ring from boiling oil

• Write a letter of apology

• Pay a fine

What is the belief about the boiling oil in the trial by ordeal?

• It will burn everyone equally

• It will cool down quickly

• It will not burn the guilty

• It will burn the guilty but not the innocent

What is the outcome for Niiko after the trial by ordeal?

• He confesses to the theft

• He is exiled from the village

• He is found innocent

• He is promoted to a higher position

What does Niiko have to do as a consequence of his crime?

• Perform community service

• Leave the village permanently

• Replace the stolen yams and pay a fine

• Serve time in prison

What additional offering must Niiko present to the chief?

• A basket of fruits

• A ram and a white cloth

• A white dove

• A golden ring

How does the community react to Niiko's confession?

• They celebrate his honesty

• They are indifferent

• They offer him support

• They feel betrayed