SS 1 Government

Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) Party Objectives Municipal Autonomy for Lagos Coordination of Legislative Council Representation Expansion of Educational Opportunities Nationwide Party Establishment Collaboration with the National Congress of British West Africa   Leadership and Achievements Herbert Macaulay initiated and led the NNDP until his demise in 1946. Egerton Shyngle served as the inaugural president, […]

Resource Control Imbalance The central government holds sway over most of Nigeria’s resources, particularly oil and gas revenues, leaving states with limited control over their own resources. This leads to unequal resource allocation and a feeling of economic and political marginalization among some states.   Debate on Revenue Allocation The current revenue allocation formula, known

Exploring the Dynamics of Nigerian Federalism: Federal Arrangement: Nigeria functions as a federal republic, distributing authority between the central administration and its 36 constituent states. The federal government handles national affairs like defense and foreign relations, while states retain control over certain areas within their borders. Codified Constitution: Nigeria possesses a written constitution delineating the

Constitutional Features and Evaluations: Retained Presidential System: The constitution maintained the presidential system of governance, akin to the 1979 framework. Entrenched Two-Party System: The constitution solidified a two-party system, aiming to streamline electoral choices and reduce confusion compared to a multi-party setup. Recall Provision for Legislators: Empowered citizens with the ability to recall legislators who

Features of the Constitution: Retained Federalism: Modeled after the Lyttleton Constitution of 1954, the Constitution upheld federalism. Ceremonial Head of State: Designated the Governor-General as the symbolic head of state, representing the Queen of England. Parliamentary Democracy: Established a parliamentary democratic system of governance in Nigeria. Bicameral Legislatures: Implemented bicameral legislatures at both federal and

Key Features of the Lyttleton Constitution: Federal Structure: Nigeria transitioned into a truly federal state with a clear division of powers between central and regional governments. Executive Appointments: The governor appointed the speaker of the House of Assembly, who could be chosen from members or non-members of the house. Governor Titles: The governor was referred

The 1922 constitution, named after the then governor of Nigeria, Sir Hugh Clifford, introduced significant changes in Nigeria’s governance structure. It established both an executive council and a legislative council, with the governor wielding considerable authority. While it marked the first introduction of elected principles in Africa, it also had its share of advantages and

Defining Nationalism: K.B.C. Onwubiko defines nationalism as “the patriotic sentiment or activity on the part of groups of Africans held together by the bonds of common language and common historic experience to assert their right to live under a government of their own making for the preservation of their political, economic and social interest.”  

African Education and Literacy Traditional Education and Literacy Africans had their educational methods, but literacy played a crucial role in broadening their understanding.   Establishment of Educational Institutions The founding of educational institutions, including the University College, Ibadan in 1948, marked a significant shift in Euro-African relations.   Exposure to External Ideas Despite being disadvantaged,

Northern Nigeria: Success Of Indirect Rule Establishment and Exploitation: After the establishment of the Nigerian state by 1900 and subsequent Amalgamation by 1914, classical Lugardian indirect rule mainly focused on economic exploitation.   Factors for Success: Limited Powers of Obas: In the Western region, the success of indirect rule partially stemmed from the limited powers

The Impact of the Berlin Conference In the aftermath of the Berlin Conference of 1884-85, chaired by Ottovon Bismarck, West Africa became a stage for European colonial ambitions. This event catalyzed the establishment of colonial rule in the region, with Britain, France, Germany, and Portugal dividing up West Africa among themselves, except for Liberia. The

Unitary System of Government The unitary form of government entails the consolidation of all governmental powers and functions within a singular central authority in a state or country, without any constitutional division of powers. Nations such as Britain, France, and Italy exemplify this system.   Key Features: Centralization of all powers and functions under the

Political socialization is the educational process through which citizens of a nation absorb the values, attitudes, and beliefs inherent in its political system. This transmission of political culture from one generation to the next is vital for fostering a cohesive societal understanding of governance.   In this process, citizens become politically conscious and understand their

Definition of a State: A state is essentially a politically organized community of people residing within a specific geographical territory. It is characterized by an organized government that operates independently, possesses coercive power to enforce obedience, and is free from external control.   Characteristics of a State: Population: A state must have a certain number

Fascism Fascism represents an ideology centered on the notions of force and absolute obedience to authority. It is considered a philosophy, principle, and structure of an assertive nationalist and anti-communist dictatorship.   Originating as a movement in Italy in 1922, fascism reached its culmination under Benito Mussolini in 1943. This ideology denounces both capitalism and