Trace the evolution of federalism in Nigeria from 1914 to 1954.

Explanation

The Evolution of Federalism in Nigeria from 1914 -1954.

(i) In 1914, Lord Lugard amalgamated the colony and protectorate of Southern Nigeria and the protectorate of Northern Nigeria, mainly for economic reasons.

(ii) In 1922 a constitution named Clifford Constitution was promulgated. The constitution provided for legislative council for the colony and Southern protectorate of Nigeria. The Northern region was excluded from the council. The elective principle introduced paved way for political parties only in the South.

(iii) ln 1946, another Constitution named after Arthur Richards was promulgated. The Constitution introduced regionalism under which the country was divided into three regions -North, West and East. There was, however, no constitutional division of powers. Regional assemblies had no legislative powers.

(iv) In 1951 the Macpherson Constitution introduced a quasi-federal system which gave legislative powers on specific issues to the regional government but subject to the ratification of the central government.

(v) The 1954 Lyttleton Constitution formally established an improved quasi-federal system which divided legislative powers into exclusive, concurrent and residual lists. Premiers were appointed to head the three regions.