Concept:The Council of Elders in pre-colonial West African political institutions consisted of respected lineage heads who represented the ordinary people in governance.
Explanation:The Council of Elders acted as the voice of the common people in the community.
They advised the ruler, settled disputes, and made decisions that affected the welfare of all citizens.
They did not serve mainly as warriors of the state, priests, or custodians of state wealth.
Their primary duty was to ensure that the needs and opinions of the commoners were heard and considered in the process of governance.
Therefore, the Council of Elders served as the representatives of the common people.
Answer:D. representative of the commoners