The elective principle was introduced by which constitution?

Analyze the question: It asks which constitution first introduced the elective principle in Nigeria. This means the first time Nigerians were allowed to vote for some of their representatives in the Legislative Council, rather than having them all appointed by the Governor.

Explain the concept: The elective principle is the idea that representatives are chosen by popular vote. Before 1922, Nigerians in the Legislative Council were nominated by the colonial Governor. The Clifford Constitution changed this.

Step-by-step solution:

1. Clifford Constitution of 1922 (Governor Hugh Clifford): • Created a Legislative Council for the Colony of Lagos and the Southern Provinces. • Introduced the elective principle: 4 elected Nigerian members (3 from Lagos and 1 from Calabar). • Franchise was limited to adult males with an annual income of at least £100. • This led to the formation of the first political parties, such as the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923 by Herbert Macaulay.

2. Richard Constitution of 1946: Introduced regional Houses of Assembly and brought the North into the central legislature, but it did not first introduce the elective principle.

3. Macpherson Constitution of 1951: Introduced a wider elective system and ministerial roles, but the principle was already in place.

4. Lyttleton Constitution of 1954: Established a federal system.

Answer: The elective principle was first introduced by the Clifford Constitution of 1922, which is option B.

Exam tip: Remember "Clifford = Choose". Clifford brought the choosing (election) of representatives. Also, 1922 is the earliest date among the options, and "first" questions often point to the earliest constitution.