Project Abstract

Abstract
This research project aims to conduct a comparative analysis of the independence constitution of Nigeria in 1960 and the post-independence constitutions that followed. The study will delve into the historical context surrounding the development and implementation of these constitutions to provide a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of constitutional governance in Nigeria. The independence constitution of Nigeria, enacted in 1960, marked a significant milestone in the country's history as it granted Nigeria self-governance and paved the way for the transition from colonial rule to independence. This constitution established the framework for the country's political system, outlining the powers and responsibilities of the various branches of government and enshrining fundamental rights and freedoms for Nigerian citizens. Following independence, Nigeria went through a series of constitutional developments, including the adoption of the Republican Constitution in 1963, the military interventions that led to the suspension of civilian rule and the imposition of military decrees, and the subsequent return to civilian rule with the adoption of the 1999 Constitution. Each of these constitutional frameworks reflected the changing political dynamics and power struggles that characterized Nigeria's post-independence era. This comparative analysis will examine key aspects of the independence constitution and subsequent post-independence constitutions, including the distribution of powers between the federal and state governments, the protection of individual rights, the structure of the judiciary, and mechanisms for resolving intergovernmental conflicts. By exploring the similarities and differences between these constitutional frameworks, this study aims to shed light on the strengths and weaknesses of Nigeria's constitutional governance over the years. The research will draw on a variety of primary and secondary sources, including official constitutional documents, scholarly analyses, and historical accounts of Nigeria's constitutional history. By analyzing these sources through a comparative lens, this study seeks to offer insights into the impact of constitutional changes on governance, political stability, and the protection of rights in Nigeria. Overall, this research project endeavors to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on Nigerian constitutional development and provide valuable insights for policymakers, scholars, and citizens interested in understanding the evolution of constitutional governance in Nigeria from independence to the present day.

Project Overview

INTRODUCTION

The conference which became the last constitutional conference held before the attainment of Independence in 1960, also took place in London from September 29 to October 27, 1958. The resumed constitutional conference of 1958 was the last Nigerian constitutional conference held before the attainment of Independence in 1960. It was convened to consider the report of the Willink’s commission on the minority the conference resolved among other issues, that the Northern part of Nigeria should be self-governing by 1959 and that if a resolution was passed by the parliament asking for independence, in 1960, then her majesty government would propose a bill of independence in 1960. In December, 1959, a nationwide general election was held into the Federal House of Representatives. In the election, no single party won an over all majority as was the case in 1954, while in September, 1960, the parliament has enacted a law on Nigeria’s independence.