Constitutional Development in Nigeria

Question 1

Explain the Clifford constitution of 1925.

Answer 1

• he Clifford Constitution was introduced to address growing demands for African representation in governance. It established a Legislative Council for Nigeria, comprising both elected and appointed members. However, the majority of members were still appointed, and the franchise was limited, mainly to educated elites and property owners.

Question 2

What were the positive impacts of the Clifford constitution?

Answer 2

• It marked the first step towards political representation for Nigerians and allowed for some level of participation in legislative affairs.

Question 3

What were the negative impacts of the Clifford constitution?

Answer 3

• The limited franchise meant that the majority of Nigerians, particularly rural populations and those without property or education, remained excluded from the political process. The constitution also reinforced colonial control by retaining significant powers in the hands of British officials.

Question 4

Explain the Richards Constitution of 1946.

Answer 4

• The Richards Constitution aimed to address the complexities of Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and cultural landscape by introducing regional representation and allowing for greater participation of traditional rulers in governance. It divided Nigeria into three regions (Northern, Western, and Eastern) with separate legislative bodies.

Question 5

What were the positive impacts of the Richards constitution of 1946?

Answer 5

• It recognized the diversity of Nigeria and provided a framework for regional autonomy and representation. Traditional rulers gained some formal roles in governance, acknowledging their influence in local communities.

Question 6

What were the negative impacts of the Richards constitution of 1946?

Answer 6

• The constitution’s emphasis on regionalism led to increased ethnic and regional tensions, as power struggles emerged between different groups vying for control within their regions. The central government retained significant authority, leading to conflicts over resource allocation and decision-making between regions and the center.

Question 7

Explain the Macpherson Constitution of 1951.

Answer 7

• The Macpherson Constitution aimed to address criticisms of the Richards Constitution by granting more powers to the regions and introducing a bicameral legislature at the center. It expanded the franchise slightly but still maintained significant restrictions, such as educational and property qualifications.

Question 8

What were the positive impacts of the Macpherson constitution of 1951.

Answer 8

• It furthered the devolution of powers to the regions, allowing for greater autonomy and local governance. The introduction of a bicameral legislature provided a more structured framework for legislative processes.

Question 9

What were the negative impacts of the Macpherson constitution of 1951.

Answer 9

• The educational and property qualifications for voting remained restrictive, limiting the participation of the majority of Nigerians in the political process.
• Regional autonomy led to disparities in development and governance standards between regions, contributing to uneven progress and regional tensions.