The two major political alliances in the First Republic were

Analyze the question: It asks for the two major political alliances in Nigeria's First Republic (1960-1966). Note the word "alliances", not "parties".

Explain the concept: Before the 1964 federal elections, Nigerian parties regrouped into two big blocs:

1. NNA (Nigerian National Alliance) • Led by the NPC (Northern People's Congress), with Sir Ahmadu Bello and Tafawa Balewa as key figures. • Included the NNDP (Nigerian National Democratic Party, Akintola's party from the West) and other smaller parties.

2. UPGA (United Progressive Grand Alliance) • Led by the NCNC (Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe's party). • Included the Action Group (the Awolowo wing), NEPU, and others like the UMBC.

Check each option:

• A. NEPU and UPGA: NEPU was a party and a member of UPGA, not a separate alliance. ✗
• B. NNDP and NEPU: Both are political parties, not alliances. ✗
• C. NNA and NNDP: The NNDP was a member of the NNA, so this is wrong. ✗
• D. UPGA and NNA: These were the two rival alliances that contested the controversial 1964 federal elections. ✓

Tip: Remember the alliance pairings:

• NNA = NPC + NNDP (the "N" group, northern and Akintola's allies)
• UPGA = United Progressive, with NCNC + AG (Action Group) + NEPU

When an exam question says "alliances", look for the options with the acronyms ending in "A" (NNA, UPGA), since both stand for "Alliance."