Theory question 106
Nigerian FederalismSection B (answer two questions only from this section)
What were the factors that necessitated the adoption of federal system of government in Nigeria?
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Large size of the country.
Ethnic, religious, linguistic and cultural diversity.
Fear of domination of minorities by majority groups.
Colonial history: the British created regions (1939/1946) and regionalised administration.
Uneven development between North and South.
Desire of the nationalist leaders (regionally based parties) for autonomy.
Bringing government closer to the people.
Economic viability of regions with their own resources.
Recommendations of the constitutional conferences (1950 Ibadan, 1953/54 London) leading to the Lyttleton Constitution of 1954.
Desire for unity in diversity.
Explain at least five factors.