Theory question 108
Constitutional Development in NigeriaSection B (answer two questions only from this section)
What were the main decisions of the General Conference of 1950 in Ibadan?
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Held in January 1950 to review the Richards Constitution, after consultations from village to regional level.
Nigeria to be a federation with a central government and three regions (North, East, West).
Regional Houses of Assembly to have legislative powers; Houses of Chiefs in the North and West.
A central House of Representatives enlarged, with members elected by the regional houses.
Council of Ministers at the centre and Executive Councils in the regions, with Nigerian ministers.
Northern demand for 50% of seats in the central legislature (equal to East and West combined) accepted.
Revenue allocation based on derivation and other principles.
Regional laws subject to central legislation where they conflict.
These decisions formed the basis of the Macpherson Constitution of 1951.
Focus on the decisions, not the procedure.