Highlight five weaknesses of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Explanation

(i) Costly to run: The constitution operates a presidential system of government with comprehensive duplication of political functions, thereby making it too expensive and costly to run.

(ii) Abuse of impeachment clause: The impeachment clause as stipulated in the constitution could be abused by the lawmakers to victimise a political opponent.

(iii) Delay in implementation of programmes: Separation of powers could result in a delay in the implementation or carrying out of government programme. For example, the National Assembly can delay the approval of budget, ministerial and other appointments to be made by the president.

(iv) Refusal of the executive to honour the judgement of the supreme court: the executive can refuse to honour the judgement of the supreme court because of the sovereign immunity it has.

(v) Activities in government: Government activities could be brought to a standstill because of problems between the executive and legislative arms of government, especially when the ruling party does not have a majority seat in parliament.

(vi) Over- concentration of powers: Some critics have argued that the Executive president as both Head of State and Government has excessive powers concentrated in him, and this creates room for abuse of powers.