Identify six features of the macpherson constitution of 1951

Answer Details

Features of the Macpherson Constitution of 1951

1. It was a product of wide consultation: Unlike earlier constitutions, it was drawn up after extensive discussions with Nigerians at village, divisional, provincial and national levels, so it is often described as the first "made in Nigeria" constitution.
2. It introduced a genuine federal structure: Nigeria was divided into three regions - Northern, Western and Eastern - each with its own regional legislature (House of Assembly) and executive council.
3. Enlarged central legislature: It provided for a Central House of Representatives with a larger number of Nigerian members, most of whom were elected indirectly by the regional houses.
4. Regional Houses of Assembly: Each region had a legislature, and the Northern Region additionally had a House of Chiefs, while the Western Region also had a House of Chiefs.
5. Council of Ministers: A central Council of Ministers was created, made up of the Governor, official members and Nigerian ministers drawn from the regions, giving Nigerians a share in executive functions.
6. Regional executive councils: Each region had its own executive council with Nigerian ministers, marking a measure of regional self-government.
7. The Governor retained wide powers: The Governor still held reserved and veto powers and could override the legislature, so ultimate control remained with the British.

(Any six of the above are acceptable.)