Which of the following alternatives is a feature of a federation

Step 1: Analyze the question We are asked to identify a feature of a federal system of government (a federation).

Step 2: Explain the concept A federation is a system in which power is constitutionally divided between a central (federal) government and component units (states, regions, or provinces). Each level is sovereign in its own sphere. Nigeria, the USA, and Canada are examples.

Key features of a federation:

• Division of powers between the central government and the component units
• A written, rigid constitution
• Supremacy of the constitution, meaning every level of government is subject to it
• An independent judiciary that interprets the constitution and settles disputes between levels of government
• A bicameral legislature at the centre (for example, Senate and House of Representatives) to represent states and the people
• No right of unilateral secession

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Unwritten constitution: Wrong. Federations need a written, rigid constitution to clearly define each level's powers. An unwritten constitution is typical of Britain, a unitary state.
• B. Unicameral legislature: Wrong. Federations generally use a bicameral (two-chamber) legislature to give states representation. A single chamber is not a defining feature.
• C. Supremacy of the constitution: Correct. The constitution is the highest law. Neither the federal nor the state governments can act against it, and the courts enforce this.
• D. Right to secede: Wrong. Component units normally have no constitutional right to break away. Nigeria's 1967 to 1970 civil war is an example of the federation resisting secession.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C. supremacy of the constitution.

Exam tip: Remember the federation keywords: written, rigid, supreme constitution, division of powers, bicameral legislature, independent judiciary. If an option mentions "unwritten," "unicameral," or "secession," it is usually a distractor.