Ahmadu, the ruling Faama of Ségou and the eastern regions of the Toucouleur Empire, attempted to assert his control over the entire unit.

[3] His rule consisted largely of suppressing rebellions and fighting to centralize the empire against the resistance of the Fula aristocracy.

[4] The government was highly structured, with centrally appointed governors of the various provinces seconded by cadis, military commanders and tax collectors.

Ministers based in Segou managed various portfolios such as justice, the Niger river fleet, the public treasury, relations with Europeans and other foreign powers, commerce, etc.

[5] Moktar and Aguibu attempted to use Nioro du Sahel and Koniakary as bases for independent power in the 1870s, but were both defeated and imprisoned.