What were the weaknesses of the military regime in Nigeria between 1966 and 1975?

Answer Details

Weaknesses of the military regime in Nigeria between 1966 and 1975

1. Suspension of the constitution and rule by decree. Governance by decrees issued without debate removed the checks of an elected legislature and encouraged arbitrary rule.
2. Absence of the rule of law. Ouster clauses barred the courts from questioning the acts of government, undermining the independence of the judiciary and citizens' rights.
3. Denial of fundamental rights. Political activity was banned, the press was muzzled and detention without trial was common.
4. Over-centralisation of power. Power was concentrated in the Supreme Military Council and the Head of State, fusing the executive and legislative functions.
5. Ethnic suspicion and disunity. The 1966 coups were seen as ethnically motivated, deepening distrust and contributing to the civil war of 1967 to 1970.
6. Corruption and indiscipline. The regime, especially in its later years, became notorious for bribery, inflated contracts and abuse of office.
7. Lack of popular participation and accountability. The government was neither elected by nor accountable to the people.
8. Instability and coups. The regimes came and were removed by force (1966 twice, and 1975), showing chronic political instability.