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Question

Difficulty: MediumSecond Republic and the 1979 Presidential Constitution

Under the 1979 Constitution of Nigeria's Second Republic, which legislative check was established to limit the Executive President's authority when appointing Ministers of the Government of the Federation?

  1. Confirmation of nominations by the SenateAnswer
  2. B
    Approval of cabinet nominees by the Prime Minister
  3. C
    Ratification of appointments by a two-thirds majority of State Houses of Assembly
  4. D
    Formal authorization by a distinct ceremonial Head of State

Answer

Confirmation of nominations by the Senate
The correct answer specifies confirmation of nominations by the Senate. In accordance with the principle of checks and balances under the 1979 Constitution, the Executive President had to submit ministerial nominees to the Senate for confirmation prior to taking office.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the constitutional framework established in Nigeria in 1979.
The 1979 Constitution transitioned Nigeria from a Westminister-style parliamentary system to an executive presidential system.
Understanding the presidential structure clarifies how executive powers are constrained by checks and balances.
2
Examine the legislative checks on executive appointments.
Under Section 135 of the 1979 Constitution, presidential nominations for federal ministers required screening and confirmation by the Senate before formal appointment.
Senate confirmation prevents executive overreach and ensures legislative oversight over key cabinet appointments.

Key Concept

Executive Appointments and Legislative Checks in the 1979 Constitution
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Topics

Second Republic and the 1979 Presidential Constitution