Republican Constitution of 1963

Following the conference held in Lagos between 25th and 26th of July 1963, coupledwith the defect of 1960 independence constitution, it was agreed that Nigeria should become a Republic. Hence, the president will have same power and function as the Governor General.

Features of Republican Constitution of 1963

1. The president became the ceremonial Head of state to replace the Governor General and he was to be elected by the legislative body for the term tenure of five years. 

2. The constitution adopted the British parliamentary system of government. 

3. The Queen was no longer the Head of state. 

4. The supreme Court was made the final court of appeal. 

5. The constitution allowed the president to appoint the judges of the supreme Court and the federal Court on the advice of prime minister. 

6. The prime minister was answerable to the Parliament as practicable in the parliamentary system. 

7. The supreme Court was given the power of judicial review. 

Advantages/Merit of Republican Constitution of 1963

1. The constitution conferred Nigeria a sovereign state. That is, Nigeria is now free from external influence. 

2. The constitution was considered homemade, because it is drafted mainly by Nigerians. 

3. The supreme Court was made the final court of appeal. 

4. The constitution represents a shift from British ideological concept to Republican system. That is, the Queen is no longer the head of state.

Disadvantages/Demerit of Republican Constitution of 1963

1. The prime minister was answerable to the Parliament rather than the public.

2. There was fusion of power rather than separation of power. 

3. There was supremacy of the parliament rather than the Constitution. Undoubtedly, this could lead to arbitrary rule. 

4. The president being the Head of state and the prime minister being the Head of government could result into conflict in terms of decision making. Simply put, the controversy between Nnamdi Azikiwe and Tafawa Balewa in the first Republic is not unconnected to this system. 

5. Cross-carpeting is another potent demerit of Republic Constitution of 1963. That is, some political leaders defect from one party to another especially after being elected.

In conclusion, Republican Constitution came into existence due to the conference held in Lagos between 25th and 26th of July 1963 where it was agreed that Nigeria should become a Republic. However, the defect of the previous Constitution (Independence Constitution of 1960) was not excluded. 

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