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Difficulty: MediumThe Richards Constitution of 1946 and Regionalism

Match each feature or component of the Richards Constitution of 1946 with its corresponding historical and constitutional description.

  • Tripartite Regional StructureInstitutionalized regionalism by formally dividing Nigeria into Northern, Western, and Eastern Regions.
  • Northern House of ChiefsIntroduced a second legislative chamber existing exclusively in the Northern Region alongside its House of Assembly.
  • Unofficial MajorityGave non-officials a numerical majority in the Central Legislative Council, though selected via Native Authorities.
  • Consultative Status of Regional AssembliesDenied regional legislative bodies independent law-making authority and power to pass regional budgets.

Answer

The correct pairings align the Tripartite Regional Structure with the formal division into Northern, Western, and Eastern regions; the Northern House of Chiefs with the exclusive second chamber in the North; the Unofficial Majority with non-official representation selected via Native Authorities; and the Consultative Status of Regional Assemblies with their lack of independent legislative and financial powers.
Each feature correctly matches its historical reality under the 1946 Richards Constitution: regional division introduced regionalism, the Northern Region uniquely gained a House of Chiefs, the unofficial majority was appointed via traditional Native Authorities, and regional assemblies remained advisory without independent law-making powers.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the administrative division introduced under the 1946 Richards Constitution.
Identify that Sir Arthur Richards formalized the division of Nigeria into three regions: Northern, Western, and Eastern.
This administrative arrangement formally institutionalized regionalism in Nigerian governance.
2
Examine the specific legislative institutions established across the regions.
Recognize that a House of Chiefs was established exclusively in the Northern Region alongside the House of Assembly.
The prominent position of traditional rulers in the Northern Emirate system prompted the creation of a separate upper chamber.
3
Evaluate the legislative powers and membership composition of the central and regional bodies.
Confirm that non-officials held a majority in the Central Council, while regional assemblies were strictly advisory without independent legislative authority.
Nationalists strongly criticized the 1946 Constitution because the regional bodies could only deliberate and recommend, reserving supreme law-making authority for the Governor and Central Council.

Key Concept

Key provisions, institutions, and structural limitations of the Richards Constitution of 1946
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The Richards Constitution of 1946 and Regionalism

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