The following are the various ways by which the Traditional Rulers controlled their subjects in Pre-colonial West Africa:
(i) Appointments: Divisional or district heads were appointed by the traditional rulers and used in the execution of the traditional rulers' policies.
(ii) Formulation of policies: They formulated policies and made use of the traditional and customary laws in governing their territory.
(iii) Public announcements: Town criers were made use of in disseminating information to the people and also stating penalties for disobedience.
(iv) Collection of taxes: Taxes were collected and made use of in developing their respective areas of authority.
(v) The age grades: The age grades were used to defend their territories and even to rid their areas of criminal activities.
(vi) Control of the subjects: The traditional rulers played the role of spiritual and religious heads, thereby bringing their subjects under them.
(vii)Punishment of offenders: The traditional rulers also had the powers to punish those that had offended the community.
(viii) Conferment of chieftaincy titles on deserving subjects: This was done in recognition of their contributions to their various communities.
(ix) High priest: Most of the secret societies were headed by the traditional rulers. The traditional rulers were high priests over these societies. For effective administration of their areas, these societies played crucial role.