Theory question 109
Constitutional Development in NigeriaGive any six reasons for the breakdown of the Macpherson Constitution of 1951.
Show the model answer
Model answer
Any six:
1. Ministers had no portfolios (no departments).
2. Governor-General's wide veto powers.
3. Regional legislatures could block central bills (regional veto).
4. Ministers were not responsible to a party; the 'Eyo Ita/NCNC crisis' in the East (1953).
5. Ethnic and regional rivalry among parties (NPC, AG, NCNC).
6. 1953 self-government motion crisis (Enahoro's motion) and the Kano riots.
7. Electoral college system led to manipulation.
8. Quasi-federal structure satisfied no one.
9. Northern dominance by half the seats.
Explanation
Link the constitution's flaws to the 1953 crises that ended it.