WAEC Government 2019 Theory — Question 8

Model answer

(a) Pre-independence constitution refers to the colonial constitutions used to govern Nigeria before independence in 1960. They include: (i) Clifford Constitution (1922) (ii) Richards Constitution (1946) (iii) Macpherson Constitution (1951) (iv) Lyttleton Constitution (1954). (b) Features of the 1960 independence constitution: (i) The British Monarch was recognized as the Head of State and was represented by the Governor-General. (ii) The constitution provided for a parliamentary system of government at both the federal and regional levels. (iii) The Privy Council of the House of Lords served as the final court of appeal for the country. (iv) The ceremonial functions of the state were performed by the Head of State (Governor-General), while executive powers were vested in the Prime Minister and his cabinet. (v) The constitution provided for a bicameral legislature at the federal level: the Senate and House of Representatives.