WAEC Government 2012 Theory question 109

Theory question 109

Constitutional Development in Nigeria

Identify six features of the Macpherson Constitution of 1951.

Show the model answer

Model answer

Any six:
1. Introduced a quasi-federal system with three regions (North, West, East).
2. Central legislature: House of Representatives of 148 (mostly elected) members.
3. Central Council of Ministers (executive) headed by the Governor, with 12 Nigerian ministers.
4. Regional Houses of Assembly and Regional Executive Councils in each region.
5. Bicameral legislature (House of Chiefs and House of Assembly) in the North and West; unicameral in the East.
6. Electoral college (indirect) system of election.
7. Northern Region given half the seats in the House of Representatives.
8. Governor retained veto power; ministers had no portfolios.
9. Wide consultation (from village level) before it was made.

Explanation

Note the figures (three regions, 148 members) to show precise knowledge.