Features of the Macpherson Constitution of 1951 - SS2 Government Lesson Note

The Macpherson Constitution of 1951 had several key features that helped shape Nigeria's political landscape. Here are some of the most notable features:

· Representative government: The main aim of the constitution was to introduce some measure of representative government in Nigeria. It created a central legislative council and regional assemblies with limited powers.
· Three regions: The country was divided into three regions, the Northern, Western, and Eastern regions, each with its own regional assembly and executive council.
· Central Legislative Council: The central legislative council had limited powers and was made up of appointed and indirectly elected members.
· Local government system: The constitution introduced reforms in the local government system, creating new local government councils in the regions and allowing for some level of local autonomy.
· Limited powers: Although the constitution represented a significant step towards representative government, the powers of the regional assemblies and the central legislative council were limited, and ultimate authority remained with the Governor-General.