As students approach their second-term examination for Government studies, it is crucial that they understand the key concepts and structures of Nigeria’s political history. Below is a detailed and comprehensive revision guide covering the topics listed. This guide is designed to ensure that all students—regardless of their familiarity with the content—can grasp the essential concepts effectively.
1. Resumption Test/Pre-Colonial Administration
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Describe the system of government of the Hausa/Fulani, Igbo, and Yoruba pre-colonial days
The pre-colonial systems of government in Nigeria varied greatly between the ethnic groups. The Hausa/Fulani had a centralized system under a king, or Emir, who ruled with the help of appointed chiefs. The Yoruba had a more decentralized system where power was shared between the king (Oba) and local chiefs, with the people having a say in decision-making. The Igbo operated under a democratic system where decisions were made collectively by village elders and the general assembly of men. - Explain the roles of the components of their respective structures
In the Hausa/Fulani system, the Emir was the central authority figure, while local rulers helped administer the provinces. In Yoruba kingdoms, the Oba had significant religious and political influence, supported by chiefs responsible for various duties. The Igbo system had no centralized authority; instead, every free man had a voice, and the elders’ council guided decision-making. - Compare the different pre-colonial administrations
The Hausa/Fulani system was highly centralized and hierarchical, with a king as the supreme ruler. In contrast, the Yoruba system had a more flexible power-sharing arrangement. The Igbo system, on the other hand, was largely democratic with no supreme leader.
Sample Questions:
- Describe the system of government in the pre-colonial Hausa/Fulani society.
- What were the roles of the chiefs in the Yoruba pre-colonial administration?
- Compare the political systems of the Hausa/Fulani and the Yoruba.
- How was power structured in the Igbo pre-colonial society?
- What were the features of the Igbo democracy before colonial rule?
- What role did the Oba play in the Yoruba kingdom?
- Describe the role of elders in the Igbo governance system.
- How was the Hausa/Fulani administration different from the Igbo system?
- Explain the decentralized nature of the Yoruba political system.
- Discuss the significance of local rulers in the Hausa/Fulani governance.
2. Colonial Administration (British Colonial Administration)
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Explain the principles and structure of British colonial administration in Nigeria (Indirect Rule System)
The British introduced the indirect rule system in Nigeria, where local traditional rulers were used as intermediaries to govern their people. The British colonial government made decisions and enacted policies, but the local rulers helped enforce these policies. - Discuss the impact of colonial administration in Nigeria and West Africa
The British colonial administration reshaped the socio-political landscape of Nigeria, introducing a centralized government and altering traditional power structures. It also created new social classes, introduced Western education, and laid the foundation for modern infrastructure, but at the cost of local cultures and autonomy. - Highlight the advantages and disadvantages of colonial rule
The advantages included the development of infrastructure, introduction of Western education, and unification of various ethnic groups. However, the disadvantages included exploitation of resources, destruction of indigenous cultures, and the imposition of foreign governance systems that lacked consideration for local traditions.
Sample Questions:
- Explain the concept of indirect rule used by the British in Nigeria.
- What were the major impacts of British colonial rule on Nigeria?
- Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the indirect rule system in Nigeria.
- How did the British colonial administration affect local rulers in Nigeria?
- What were the social impacts of British colonialism in West Africa?
- How did indirect rule affect the political structure of Nigeria?
- Explain how British colonial rule influenced Nigeria’s educational system.
- What were the economic consequences of British colonial rule in Nigeria?
- Discuss the role of traditional rulers in the British colonial administration.
- How did colonialism affect the unity of various ethnic groups in Nigeria?
3. Colonial Administration (French Colonial Administration)
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Identify the principles and structure of French colonial administration in French West Africa (Policy of Assimilation and Later Association)
The French initially pursued a policy of assimilation, seeking to transform Africans into French citizens. Over time, they adopted a policy of association, which allowed for a more limited involvement of local elites in governance, but the French retained ultimate control. - Discuss the impact of French colonial policy in West Africa
French policies led to the spread of French culture, language, and religion, but also caused significant disruption to local systems. The French saw their colonies as extensions of France, imposing strict control over the people. - Compare British and French colonial policies of administration in West Africa
The British emphasized indirect rule, utilizing local rulers, while the French imposed direct rule with the aim of assimilating Africans into French culture. This difference in approach had a lasting impact on the political and social systems in their respective colonies.
Sample Questions:
- What were the principles of French colonial administration in West Africa?
- Compare the French policy of assimilation with the British system of indirect rule.
- Discuss the social and cultural impacts of French colonial rule in West Africa.
- What were the long-term effects of French colonial policies on West African societies?
- How did the French approach to colonial governance differ from the British approach?
- Explain the shift from assimilation to association in French colonial policy.
- What role did local elites play in French colonial governance in West Africa?
- Discuss the effects of French colonial policies on education in West Africa.
- How did the French policy of direct rule affect the autonomy of local rulers?
- What were the advantages and disadvantages of French colonial rule in West Africa?
4. Nationalism in Nigeria
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Explain the meaning of nationalism
Nationalism refers to a political ideology focused on the interests and culture of a particular nation. It involves the desire for self-governance and independence from foreign control. - Discuss the factors that led to the rise and growth of nationalism in Nigeria
Key factors included the exploitation under colonial rule, the spread of Western education, the influence of the press, and the establishment of political parties that advocated for independence. - Identify key nationalist leaders and their contributions
Notable nationalist leaders include Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello. These leaders played critical roles in advocating for Nigerian independence through political movements, speeches, and publications.
Sample Questions:
- Define nationalism and explain its significance in Nigeria.
- Discuss the factors that contributed to the rise of nationalism in Nigeria.
- Identify and explain the role of Nnamdi Azikiwe in Nigeria’s nationalist movement.
- How did Obafemi Awolowo contribute to Nigeria’s struggle for independence?
- What was the role of education in the growth of Nigerian nationalism?
- Who were some key nationalist leaders in Nigeria, and what were their contributions?
- Explain the impact of the press on the growth of nationalism in Nigeria.
- How did the British colonial government respond to Nigerian nationalism?
- What were the effects of Nigerian nationalism on the British colonial administration?
- Discuss the significance of the 1947 Lyttleton Constitution in the nationalist movement.
5. Constitutional Development in Nigeria (Pre-Independence Constitution 1) – The Nigerian Council of 1914, Clifford’s Constitution of 1922
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Explain the origin of the Constitution
The Nigerian Council of 1914 was the first attempt to establish a national government in Nigeria under British rule. It laid the foundation for the development of a formal constitutional system. - Discuss the features of the Constitution
The Clifford’s Constitution of 1922 introduced significant reforms, including a limited elective principle where Nigerians were allowed to elect members to the legislative council, though the British still held ultimate authority. The constitution also defined the role of the Governor-General, who exercised executive power on behalf of the British monarch. - Identify the merits and demerits of the Constitution
The merits of the Clifford Constitution included giving Nigerians a voice in government through the elective principle. However, its demerits included limited suffrage, as only a small percentage of the population (mainly wealthy males) could vote, and the continued dominance of the British in decision-making.
Sample Questions:
- What were the key features of the Nigerian Council of 1914?
- Explain the significance of the Clifford Constitution of 1922.
- Who was eligible to vote under the Clifford Constitution?
- What was the role of the Governor-General under the Clifford Constitution?
- Discuss the advantages of the Clifford Constitution for Nigerians.
- What were the limitations of the Clifford Constitution in terms of political representation?
- How did the Clifford Constitution influence subsequent constitutional developments in Nigeria?
- What role did the British government play in the Clifford Constitution?
- Discuss the impact of the Clifford Constitution on Nigerian nationalism.
- What were the main criticisms of the Clifford Constitution?
6. Constitutional Development in Nigeria (Pre-Independence Constitution 2) – Richards Constitution of 1946, Macpherson Constitution 1951, London Constitutional Conference 1953
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Identify the features of the Constitution
The Richards Constitution of 1946 introduced regional representation, creating three regions (Northern, Western, and Eastern) for the first time. The Macpherson Constitution of 1951 further expanded regional government and allowed for more Nigerian participation in the executive branch. The London Constitutional Conference of 1953 led to a federal system of government, dividing the country into regions with autonomous powers. - Highlight the objectives of the Constitution
The primary objective of these constitutions was to gradually transfer political power to Nigerians while maintaining British control. They aimed at balancing regional interests and central governance while laying the groundwork for self-governance. - Outline the merits and demerits of the Constitution
The merit of the Richards and Macpherson constitutions was the inclusion of regional autonomy and greater Nigerian representation. However, they were criticized for still maintaining the British monopoly over the central government, as well as for being perceived as a way to delay full independence.
Sample Questions:
- What was the main feature of the Richards Constitution of 1946?
- How did the Macpherson Constitution of 1951 differ from the Richards Constitution?
- Discuss the role of the London Constitutional Conference of 1953 in Nigeria’s political development.
- What were the strengths of the Macpherson Constitution?
- How did the regional system introduced by the Richards Constitution affect governance in Nigeria?
- What were the limitations of the 1951 Macpherson Constitution?
- Explain the significance of the 1953 London Constitutional Conference.
- How did the British retain control over the Nigerian political system despite these reforms?
- Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of regional autonomy as introduced in the Richards Constitution.
- What role did the central government play under these constitutions?
7. Test, Open Day, and Mid-Term Break
This section involves a practical application of knowledge, where students can participate in a mock exam or a self-assessment test based on previous topics covered. This period also provides an opportunity for open discussions, queries, and clarifications. A mid-term break will follow after the test, giving students a chance to rest and reflect on their learning.
8. Constitutional Development in Nigeria (Pre-Independence Constitution 3) – Lyttleton Constitution, London Constitutional Conference 1957 & 1958
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Discuss the features of the Constitution
The Lyttleton Constitution of 1954 marked the end of the regional system introduced by the Richards Constitution, moving towards a more unified federal structure. The London Constitutional Conferences of 1957 and 1958 further solidified the move toward Nigerian self-governance, providing for more political autonomy and preparing the country for full independence. - Outline the important characteristics of the Constitution
The Lyttleton Constitution created a more centralized government and established a bicameral legislature. It also established the principle of federalism, allowing for greater autonomy for regions while maintaining a strong central government. - Identify the achievements and weaknesses of the Constitution
The achievements of the Lyttleton Constitution included paving the way for Nigeria’s independence by strengthening regional autonomy and creating a stable federal structure. Its weaknesses included ongoing British control over the most important decisions, such as foreign policy and defense.
Sample Questions:
- What were the key features of the Lyttleton Constitution of 1954?
- How did the 1957 and 1958 London Constitutional Conferences contribute to Nigeria’s path to independence?
- Discuss the transition from regional autonomy to a federal system under the Lyttleton Constitution.
- What role did the British colonial administration play in the Lyttleton Constitution?
- How did the Lyttleton Constitution affect the relationship between the regions and the central government?
- What were the merits and demerits of the Lyttleton Constitution?
- Explain how the Lyttleton Constitution laid the groundwork for Nigeria’s independence.
- What was the significance of the bicameral legislature introduced by the Lyttleton Constitution?
- How did the 1957 and 1958 conferences influence Nigeria’s political structure?
- What were the limitations of the Lyttleton Constitution in preparing Nigeria for full independence?
9. Independence and Post-Independence Constitution (1960 & 1963) – 1st Republic
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Explain the features of the 1960 & 1963 constitutions
The 1960 constitution granted Nigeria full independence, establishing it as a republic with a parliamentary system. The 1963 constitution further entrenched republican status, creating a presidential system and solidifying Nigeria’s sovereignty. - Outline the common features of both constitutions
Both constitutions maintained a federal structure with regions, a parliamentary system, and a ceremonial president. - Identify the differences between the constitutions
The primary difference was the 1963 constitution’s move towards a republican status, eliminating the British monarchy’s role and creating an executive president.
Sample Questions:
- What were the key features of the 1960 Nigerian Constitution?
- How did the 1963 Constitution differ from the 1960 Constitution?
- What were the implications of the 1963 Constitution for Nigeria’s political system?
- Discuss the role of the British monarchy under the 1960 Constitution.
- What changes occurred in the Nigerian political system between 1960 and 1963?
- How did the 1963 Constitution affect the power of the president?
- What were the main provisions of the 1960 Constitution regarding federalism?
- Compare the parliamentary system of government under the 1960 Constitution with the presidential system in 1963.
- What role did Nigeria’s independence play in shaping the 1960 and 1963 constitutions?
- Discuss the significance of the Nigerian Constitution of 1963 for Nigeria’s national identity.
10. Independence and Post-Independence Constitution (1979 & 1983) – 2nd Republic
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Explain the origin and features of the 1979 and 1983 constitutions
The 1979 Constitution introduced a presidential system of government, marking a departure from the parliamentary system. The 1983 Constitution, however, was quickly replaced due to the military coup that overthrew the civilian government. - Identify the strengths and weaknesses of the two constitutions
The strengths of the 1979 Constitution included its adoption of a presidential system and an emphasis on democratic principles. Its weaknesses were the high expectations placed on the new government, leading to instability and the eventual military intervention in 1983.
Sample Questions:
- What were the main features of the 1979 Nigerian Constitution?
- How did the 1979 Constitution differ from the 1963 Constitution?
- What were the strengths of the 1979 Constitution in terms of governance?
- Why was the 1983 Constitution short-lived?
- Discuss the role of the military in the political instability following the 1979 Constitution.
- What were the weaknesses of the 1979 Constitution that led to the military coup?
- How did the 1979 Constitution affect Nigeria’s presidential system?
- What role did the military play in the 1983 Nigerian Constitution?
- Explain the significance of the 1979 Constitution for Nigerian democracy.
- What lessons were learned from the failure of the 2nd Republic in Nigeria?
11. Independence and Post-Independence Constitution (1999) – 3rd Republic
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Outline the major features of the 1999 constitution
The 1999 Constitution restored Nigeria to civilian rule after years of military dictatorship. It re-established a federal system and introduced a more robust protection of human rights. - Discuss the procedure of the constitution
The 1999 Constitution went through several phases, including public consultations and ratification by a Constituent Assembly. It is considered one of Nigeria’s most significant post-independence documents. - Justify the need for the review of the 1999 constitution
The 1999 Constitution has faced criticism for its provisions that concentrate power in the hands of the federal government, leading to calls for its review and decentralization of power.
Sample Questions:
- What were the key features of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution?
- How did the 1999 Constitution restore civilian rule in Nigeria?
- Why is the 1999 Constitution considered a turning point in Nigeria’s political history?
- What are the major criticisms of the 1999 Constitution?
- How does the 1999 Constitution address the issue of human rights?
- Discuss the challenges faced during the implementation of the 1999 Constitution.
- Why is there a need for the review of the 1999 Constitution?
- What role did public consultations play in the formulation of the 1999 Constitution?
- How does the 1999 Constitution compare to previous Nigerian constitutions?
- What changes are being proposed in the review of the 1999 Constitution?