All the following are the conditions for the adoption of federalism except

1. Analyze the question The question asks for the option that is NOT a condition for adopting federalism. Be careful with the word "except": three options are conditions, and one is not.

2. Explain the concept Federalism is a system of government in which power is shared between a central (federal) government and component units (states, regions or provinces). Each level is constitutionally recognised and has its own area of authority.

Countries usually adopt federalism for these reasons:

• Large size: A vast territory is hard to govern from one centre, so power is divided among units (Nigeria, USA, Canada).
• Large or diverse population: A big population with different ethnic, religious and linguistic groups needs a system that gives each group some self-government.
• Need for common defence: Smaller units may come together for security against external threats, and for shared economic and political strength.
• Heterogeneity (diversity): Cultural, ethnic and linguistic differences make unitary rule difficult, and federalism accommodates them.
• Others: Geographical contiguity, a desire for unity, and a history of previous separate administrations.

3. Solution

• A. Size: A condition, since large territory favours federalism.
• B. Defence: A condition, since the need for common defence and security encourages units to federate.
• C. Population: A condition, since a large and varied population favours federalism.
• D. Homogeneity: NOT a condition. Homogeneity means a society where people share the same culture, language and ethnicity. Such a society has little need to divide power and is better suited to a unitary system. Federalism is favoured by heterogeneity, the opposite.

4. Answer The correct option is D. homogeneity.

5. Tip Link federalism with diversity (heterogeneity), and unitary government with homogeneity. When you see "homogeneity" in a federalism question, it is almost always the odd one out. Also read "except" questions slowly, because they ask you to find the false statement.