Dear Chidera, federalism allows the creation of ethnic-based federating units (States). Have you ever wondered why Nigeria is practicing a federal system of government and not any other system? %&'()*456789:CDEFGHIJSTUVWXYZcdefghijstuvwxyz Voter Turnout, Voting Behavior and Democratic Consolidation in Nigeria By Professor Sakah Saidu Mahmud Kwara State University, Malete 1. Nigeria and Ghana can not easily form a country chiefly because they are not geographically contiguous. In order to examine these issues, this paper adopted qualitative research and intrinsic approach methodology, along with relative deprivation theory. Nigeria has been dubbed as a product of British colonial suturing. Between 1960 and 1996, the three regions have been divided into smaller entities which are now known as states and their boundaries were reorganised. 7 Topics Revenue Allocation in Nigeria | Week 9. And this is one of the factors responsible for the adoption of federalism in Nigeria. Resource control: 3.7 7. /F6 21 0 R Other specific reasons for the increasing demand for decentralisation are: Central governments increasingly are finding that it is impossible for them to . The construct of federalism, which originates with the concept of intergovernmental relations, dates back to the Greek civilization. Matters, enumerated in the exclusive list are selected for the federal authority, while matters that fall within the concurrent list are selected for the federal government, and the regions. There are Benin and Togo in between Ghana and Nigeria, two of the former British African colonies. stream Another cogent reason for federalism in Nigeria is the fear of marginalization. The Emergence of Nigeria as a political entity under colonial rule was not an easy affair. This is so because where federal principles apply, the various ethnic groups that cannot or dont form majority to produce large part may have the opportunity of governing themselves within their federating unit controlled by them. This particular corroborated federalism in Nigeria. Also see: Historical constitutional development in Nigeria explained. This makes it possible for the minorities to be separated from the domination of big ethnic groups. /BitsPerComponent 8 Federalism in Nigeria refers to the devolution of self-governance by the West African nation of Nigeria to its federated states, who share sovereignty with the Federal Government. Check your inbox to be the first to know the hottest news. The second theory focuses on the existence of external military or diplomatic threat for the origin of federalism. or this it really helped me, Your email address will not be published. Federalism will shape the long-term health and economic impacts of COVID-19, including plans for the future, for at least two reasons: First, federalism exacerbates inequities, as some states have a history of underinvesting in social programs, especially in certain communities. /F7 24 0 R Rather there has been more challenges than benefits of this federal system. Also, there was a demand for more local regions by all these ethnic interest groups which was what led to the creation of new states. By every political barometer, this is a thought-provoking account of the Nigeria-Biafra political imbroglio. Be the first to get hottest news from our Editor-in-Chief, Check your email and confirm your subscription. In recent times, specifically in post 2015 general election, there have been new waves of agitations for the Biafra republic by both Movement for Actualization of Sovereign State of Biafra and Indigenous People of Biafra on one hand and for Niger Delta republic by Niger Delta Avengers on the other, added to terrorism and militancy that are already threatening Nigeria fragile state. Thus, Nigeria's federalism is not only complex but also hard to understand. As one of the most effective frameworks for governing a pluralistic society, Nigeria adopted Federalism to manage her multi-ethnic state. Granted is the fact that federalism was launched in Nigeria by expatriate leaders, its continued existence since independence is standing firm on the interest of the indegeneous leaders. Since Nigeria is a heterogeneous nation and Federalism is more practicable in such kind of nation, it is an ideal system of government. /ProcSet [/PDF /Text ] w !1AQaq"2B #3Rbr Emphasis on indigeneity, the federal revenue allocation formula and the increasing formalization of the 'federal character' principle, to mention only a few issues, increase sources of tensions and potential conflicts. Constitutionalism in Nigeria has been crisis-ridden since independence in 1960. Dual federalism was dominant from the 1790s until the 1930s. 2012, Issues and Trends in Nigeria's Development. Federalism, State creation and National Integration State creation like federal character, quota system, etc. we are proud to nigeria our inherited country,god bless nigeria. And this is one of the factors responsible for the adoption of federalism in Nigeria. This is why there is a clamoring for restructuring and true federalism in Nigeria. /Subtype /Image SjHw`d"*z;3N&W3k]:}N\t+5 (Nw3hW"T"aDV$V e. Each document posted on the site includes a link to the corresponding official PDF file on govinfo.gov. The current problems facing the Nigeria government and the Biafra separatist agitators originate in the causes and the effects of the Nigerian Civil war (06 July 1967-15 January 1970). Federalism was favoured among other systems of government in a bid to averting . Nigeria is confronted to the boomerang effects of the evolution of its federalism. By and large, it is the nature of the relationship of the federal and state governments that determines whether a state is federal or unitary. This has led to a deep sense of alienation and politics of ethnic identity. This was many times more the population of most African countries then. Also, Read: Local Government In Nigeria : Definition, Functions, And Importance. At the heart of these crises are weak democratic institutions, which are sustained by bad leadership and a culture of impunity. As at the time of independence, the population of Nigeria was estimated at 45.21 million. The possible reasons for the practice of federalism in Nigeria are several, and have, for instance, been presented as British imposition targeted at a post-colonial relationship, or as a. The chief architect of this theory is Riker. I have said that Nigeria is reputed to be the largest black country around, even Nigeria has claimed to be the giant of Africa by . It should be noted, however, that the Leagues significantly differ from modern federations in one respect: namely, while the various governments freely interacted, no prosperous direct contact between the populace of the various governments was permitted. Reasons for Federalism 3.1 Reasons for a federal order rather than separate states or secession 3.2 Reasons for preferring federal orders over a unitary state 4. This marginalization is evinced by untold hardships such as poverty, lack of infrastructure for health care and education, and generally impaired wellbeing. } !1AQa"q2#BR$3br June 1,2022 Since federal systems have been formed for different reasons and to Nigeria can be said to be operating the federal system of government, whereas in actual practice, the country is tending towards a unitary system. In this article, i will comprehensively discuss the reasons for federalism in Nigeria. >> Each state has the same level of self-governance. Nigeria's founding fathers desired a federal political framework, believing that federal states have the structural capacity to accommodate diversity. The proximity of the tongues and tribes in Nigeria made it possible for the adoption of federalism in the country. More so, the colonial masters with the Richards Constitution in 1947 launched Nigeria onto the path of the present federal system of government via the regionalization of the country. Federalism therefore involves the linkage of individuals, groups and policies in lasting but limited union in such a way as to provide for the energetic pursuit of common goals while maintaining the respective integrities of all parties. Power Sharing Formula +rohyC ! 9S ) ?roh _ O4C sR & Pf?? AK kyC?& Pf;_Hu j_ G$: 5/ Political culture of Nigeria: 3.4 4. Unity of the country: 3.3 3. The history of Ijaw, Edo, Igala, Yoruba, Igbo, Nupe and Hausa Kingdoms are enriched with social-political relationships that existed before the emergence of the white man. Multi-Ethnicity Nigeria is a country with a lot of ethnic groups. Federalism in Nigeria refers to the devolution of self-governance by the West African nation of Nigeria to its federated states, who share sovereignty with the Federal Government . +rohyC ! 9S ) ?roh _ O4C sR & Pf?? AK kyC?& Pf;_Hu j_ G$: 5/ One of the major reasons why countries choose federalism is because of size. Despite that, instead of unity, cooperation and consensus, there has been apparent division, disagreement, and dissension. Full History of Nigerian Federalism. It came about following the necessity for administrative convenience and managerial expenses. As I have already explained, Nigeria is an amalgamation of three different regions with beliefs and customs. INTERNAL COLONIALISM IN NIGERIA Some of the reasons for the adoption of federalism in Nigeria are the diversity of the nation and the desire for political, cultural and social identity of a people of over 250 ethnic groups, several languages, diversities and a lot of political traditions; the desire for some form of We can offhandedly list all of the reasons for the adoption of federal system in Nigeria. five reasons for the adoption of federalism in nigeria Another factor that prompted the adoption of federalism in Nigeria is the fear of insecurity and the desire for union. Ethnic, Religious and Geographical Factor 3.5 5. The powers that exist between the federal and state government also depends on the constitution. The paper contends that unitary federalism in Nigeria is an imposition and extension of colonial and military entrenched inequalities in the Nigerian state. In developing countries like India, Iraq and Nigeria, federalism has either failed to close developmental gaps and ethno-communal tensions among various states or, more worryingly, in some. Also see: Differences between 1960 and 1963 constitution of Nigeria, reasons for federal system of government in nigeria. The disadvantages are that it can set off a race to the bottom among states, cause cross-state economic and social disparities, and obstruct federal efforts . /Length 3884 Another major reason why federalism was adopted in Nigeria is the multiple ethnic backgrounds in Nigeria. Payment Details. Also see: Reasons why lawyers wear wigs to court, Origin and nature of federalism in Nigeria. The unity here is brought about by the desire of the component units of the federation to form union in respect of some matters. The size of Nigeria is therefore managed and maintained with federalism. Here, both the majority and minority are represented in the government. 2. /Length 14727 Consequently, the economic condition was one of the reasons that led to the adoption of federal systems of government in both Nigeria and South Africa. Edeh Samuel Chukwuemeka ACMC, is a Law Student and a Certified Mediator/Conciliator in Nigeria. This notwithstanding, the concept of federalism boasts of a very popular definition by an American scholar, K.C. POL 124 MAIN CONTENT Mar 21, 2011 NEW (1), Resource Control, Federalism and Peace in the Niger Delta: A Reflection on Nigeria at Fifty, Federalism and Revenue Allocation in Nigeria: A Critical Evaluation of the Derivation Principle, Legal Framework for Fiscal Federalism: Issues and Options for Reform, RESOURCE CONTROL, REVENUE ALLOCATION AND PETROLEUM POLITICS IN NIGERIA: THE NIGER DELTA QUESTION, Intergovernmental Fiscal Relations in Nigeria's Fourth Republic: Issues and Challenges, The Nigerian State and the Quest for Restructuring: Implications for Democratic Consolidation, Federalism, Democracy and Constitutionalism: The Nigerian Experience. In light of this, a constitution is said to be federal when its operates two levels of government, that is the federal and state, and each of this level exercise its different powers without interference by the other level. In Nigeria, it could be argued that our federal system of government is the creation of British colonialism. The paper suggested that fiscal and political restructuring as panacea for the instituted conflicts and underdevelopment caused by quasi federalism through ongoing review of the 1999 constitution. Before the amalgamation of the Northern Protectorate and the Southern Protectorate in 1914, there was nothing like Nigeria. Wheare who contends that it is a system where powers are shared between central and regional governments so that each is in a sphere cordinate and independent. 74 . From that date, the concept of federalism incorporated the idea of patterned contact at two levels: at the governmental level between the participating units, and among the citizens of these different units (Dare, 1979:26). You are welcome dear reader. Your email address will not be published. Nigeria, a previously unitary state, became a federation in 1954. Federalism was implemented in Nigeria as way back as 1946 during the British colonial era. (Tanzi, 1996). The military were able to create more states because military decrees do not pass the same rigorous method bills pass in a democratic government. International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention ISSN (Online): 2319 7722, ISSN (Print): 2319 7714 www.ijhssi.org Volume 2 Issue 8 August. Book excerpt: Defensive Federalism presents an original contribution to the field of federalism and multinational democracies, exploring the concept of defensive federalism as a protection of self- government against the "tyranny of the majority". 1. 4 0 obj Differences between 1960 and 1963 constitution of Nigeria, Differences Between First, Second and Third Degree Murder, Best Lawyers In The World (With Pictures): Top 10 Most Popular, Factors that Limits Independence of the Judiciary in Nigeria, Statute of Fraud: Contracts Required to be in Writing, Advantages And Disadvantages Of a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Richest Christian Musicians In The World: Top 10 Wealthiest, Countries With The Highest Minimum Wage 2022: Top 13, Best Handworks/Skills To Learn In Nigeria 2023: Top 12 Most Lucrative, Richest Engineers In Nigeria 2022: Top 10 Highest Paid, Cheapest Places to Live in the United Kingdom 2022: 12 Most Affordable, Cheapest Places/Cities To Live In Nigeria 2022. But nigeria today became the proudable and bearable country, In the words of Richards, regionalism was introduced to strengthen unity in diversity. Sorry, preview is currently unavailable. - Cooperative or "marble-cake" federalism is de ned as a exible relationship between the national and state government in which both work together on a variety of issues and programs. /Resources << This post will give you some insight into why federalism was adopted as the system of governance in Nigeria. REASONS FOR LOW TRADE Historical reasons - India adopted socialist model of economy and policy of import substitution and protectionism till 1990s and civil wars and domestic instability in other countries Poor Connectivity- Due to difficult terrain on borders, poor development of inland waterways, poor border infrastructure like border huts . Reasons for a state to adopt a federal system include the need to reflect linguistic, economic and cultural differences of a population, especially one that is concentrated geographically. Therefore, striking an acceptable delicate balance between these two divides, has, time and again, become a well known problematic world over. The constitution must be rigid to avoid frequent and unnecessary changes. Size and population of a country is among the determinants of the level of power and influence which a country commands. by the federal or any state government. These maladies have led to a renewal of the call for secession by the South-Eastern ethnic group of Nigeria for a Republic of Biafra, on the basis that they are being short-changed in the political cum socio-economic largess accumulating from the Centre. Useful tips on how to download from YouTube using SS, 10 most delicious Nigerian dishes for dinner, "Youve admitted election was flawed", Atiku replies Tinubu campaign, Whitney Adeyemi: Protest Hits Lagos as Residents Besiege Chrisland School, Long Fulani tribal braids: 30 beautiful styles to try out, Old Naira notes: 5 key things to know about Supreme Court's final verdict, "Precious don finish work": Little girl with 'anointing' prays passionately over food as mum watches, video trends. Section 10 of the constitution rule outs the adoption of any religion as a state religion either. The benefits of federalism are that it can encourage political participation, give states an incentive to engage in policy innovation, and accommodate diverse viewpoints across the country. It is on this footing, herewith, that one can properly understand the rational for, and theory of federalism, what and why certain trends theme up federal-state relations in Nigeria, and the features of federal-state relations in Nigeria. Unfortunately, to suit their interests and political agenda, the federal and state governments over time immemorial have maintained great level of . This prototype edition of the daily Federal Register on FederalRegister.gov will remain an unofficial informational resource until the Administrative Committee of the Federal Register (ACFR) issues a regulation granting it official legal status. No doubt, the Ethnic, Religious and Geographical nature of Nigeria also contributed to the reason why federalism was adopted. Is there high propensity or likelihood of exclusion, marginalization and relative deprivation, which was to engender obsessive mutual antagonism? On the other hand; a constitution is unitary when there are created by the law made by the central legislature and their existence depends upon the government to control, supervision of the central government. In 1963 Midwestern region was created and Nigeria became a nation of four regions. politicization of ethnicity or the ethnicization of the politics of state creation that Nigeria has witnessed in recent years. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Instead of designing a government that should unite the different elements in Nigeria, the colonialists fully adopted federal stem of government in 1954 and created greater regional autonomy. Fear of insecurity and the desire for a Union Meaning of federalism? Moreover, it is important to note that most of the ethnic groups in Nigeria had strong political inter-group relationship before colonial rule. Keywords: Federalism, Nigeria, ethnic groups, federal character principle . Northern Cameroons should remain with Northern Nigeria but Southern Cameroon should be granted autonomy with a legislature of its own. However, it is also fact that since independence Nigeria has promulgated several constitutions and that if Nigeria wanted an alternative system of government, she could have opted for it. Insecurity and the desire for union are the main reasons for the shift from unitary system of government to federal system of government in 1954. /Parent 2 0 R Academia.edu no longer supports Internet Explorer. /Filter /DCTDecode endobj What were the reasons for the adoption of federalism in Nigeria? In federalism, there is accountability, there is transparency. Federal System of Government/Federalism | Week 8. Under this type, there exist a balkanization of formerly unitary state near disintegration and its diversities which progress to a state. Naturally, federal system of government has some distinctive features namely: 1. RESTRUCTURE OR DISINTEGRATE, OFFICIAL CORRUPTION AND THE DILEMA OF INSTABILITY IN NIGERIA, The Rationale for AfSol in Peace and Security: The Global, National and Regional Precipitants, Agitation for Restructuring and Resource Control in Nigeria's Federalism: Issues, Perspectives and the Way Forward, Giving Peace a Chance in Nigeria: The Case for a Preventive Diplomacy, Framing of Neo-Biafra Agitations in Selected Nigerian Newspapers, CRISES OF FEDERALISM IN NIGERIA AND THE FUTURE OF THE MIDDLE BELT REGION, Social Media and Hate Speech: Analysis of Comments on Biafra Agitations, Nigeria. Just very few words have evoked much more controversy in the discus of politics than the word, federalism. Federalism was favoured among other systems of government in a bid to averting both fancied and real fear of domination among the minorities. Why do nations federate?, what are the factors or conditions to have necessitated the adoption of federalism?, how is a federation to be organized?, how is power to be shared between the levels of government in a federation?, is federalism a means to an end or an end itself?, why do some federations succeed and others fail?. Fourthly, there shall be the existence of court to interpret the constitution as it applies to cases and conflicts among the tiers of government. %PDF-1.5 Your email address will not be published. There was just the Northern Protectorate and the Southern Protectorate. Notwithstanding the above reasons for the adoption of Nigerian federalism, we can also mention some specific factors peculiar to Nigeria. Federalism is a defined or is said to be the system where powers are shared between central and regional governments so that each is in a sphere coordinate and are independent. There must be a formal decision of government powers by the constitution between the federal and state government. The Plural nature of Nigeria. You can download the paper by clicking the button above. It was believed that federal system of government would take care of the interest of the minority and human rights that had been the fear of the minority under colonial rule.
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