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SubjectFree lesson

Post- Independence Constitution

ClassNotes Team 2 MIN READUPDATED 3 JUL 2026

Government S.S.S  2 Third rd Term

WEEK 7

Post- Independence Constitution

Performance Objectives

Student should be able to:

1. The republican constitution of 1963

2. Outline the main features of the republican constitution of 1963

3. Identify the common features Republican constitution

The Republican Constitution of 1963

The prime minister and regional premiers met in May, 1963 to discuss and settle constitutional issues. As a result of this, the conference of heads of government of Nigeria agreed to summon an all-party constitutional conference in Lagos, to suggest to it important changes in the constitution. The all-party conference met in July, 1963 and agreed that Nigeria should become a republic and that the president of the republic should have the same powers and functions as the governor-general had under the independence constitution. This meeting birthed the 1963 constitution.

Features of Republican Constitution of 1963

1. Republican form of government

This was introduced as to transition to a republican form of government, backed up with a new constitution.

2. System of government

The constitution retained the parliamentary system of government.

3. The head of state

The President as a ceremonial head of state replaced the Governor-General of 1960, and the Queen of  England was no more the head of state.

4. Election of the president

The president of Nigeria was to be elected indirectly through the secret ballot for five years by the senate and house of representatives sitting together.

5. National Parliament

The national parliament was made up of 44 members of the senate and 312 members of the house of representatives.

Advantages of Republican Constitution

1. The British ceased to interfere in the affairs of the country.

2. Nigerians were fully involved in the decision making of the country.

3. The rights of the citizens were strengthened and guaranteed.

4. Supreme court became the final court of appeal.

5. The constitution was a house-made one

6. The elected president became the head of state, not the Queen.

Disadvantages of Republican Constitution

1. No supremacy of the constitution

2. The prime minister was accountable to the parliament, not the people.

3. The election of the president was not based on the decision of the majority but the minority.

4. Bribery and corruption took power in the country

5. The supremacy of the parliament resulted in abuse of power.