Theory question 106
Constitutional Development in NigeriaState any two merits and four demerits of the Clifford Constitution of the 1922 in Nigeria.
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Merits (any two): introduced the elective principle (4 elected members: 3 Lagos, 1 Calabar); led to the formation of political parties (NNDP, 1923); stimulated nationalism and newspapers; created a Legislative Council for the Colony and Southern Provinces; lasted until 1946, giving stability.
Demerits (any four): franchise limited to adult males with an income of £100 a year; only 4 of 46 members were elected; official majority so Africans could not influence decisions; the Legislative Council did not legislate for the North (the Governor did by proclamation); the Governor had veto and reserved powers; the Executive Council had no Africans; it kept North and South apart.
Two merits and four demerits: keep the numbers exact.