CLIFFORD CONSTITUTION OF 1922

The Clifford constitution of 1922 abolished the Nigerian Council of 1914 as it was replaced by a new legislative member through which Nigerians will have access to power via elective principle 

Considering the composition of Clifford constitution of 1922, the legislative member was composed of 46 members of which 27 were officials and 19 unofficials. Out of the 19 unofficials, 15 was nominated by the governor, 10 were Nigerians, out of the 10 Nigerians 4 were through election 3 from Lagos and 1 from Calabar. The constitution also led to the creation of 1st political party in Nigeria (NNDP) in 1923, Also the constitution introduced some newspapers such as Lagos Daily News and West African Pilot. For instance the Lagos daily news was established in 1925. The constitution also introduced elective principle by allowing adults who can vote and be voted for to participate in the election, but they must have resided in the county for 12 months and have gross annual income of 100 pounds per annum. As a matter of fact, the North was not incorporated in the legislative council.

Merit of Clifford Constitution

1. Introduction of elective principle. 

2. It allow for more participation than that of Nigeria Council of 1914. 

3. It led to the establishment of newspapers example Lagos daily news.

4. It allows more participation of Nigeria in governing their own affairs than Nigeria council of 1914.

5. It increase the tempo of Nigeria nationalism.

 Demerits of Clifford Constitution of 1922 

1. Ristricted franchise

2. The legislative and executive was dominated by the Europeans

3. The North was excluded from the legislative Council and allowed to be ruled by proclamation

4. The governor General had veto power.


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