The Origin of Federalism in Nigeria
Before the advent of colonial rule, Nigeria was made
up of various independent kingdoms which were tribal in nature. The British
government annexed Lagos in 1861 and formally took over the administration of Nigeria
in 1900. The British government then established two protectorates namely
Northern and Southern Protectorates and administered it separately from the
Colony of Lagos. The origin of Nigerian federalism can therefore be traced to
from 1914 as outlined below:
1.
In 1914, Lord Lugard amalgamated the Colony and Protectorate of Southern
Nigeria and the Protectorate of Northern Nigeria.
2.
In 1922 Sir Hugh Clifford became the Governor and a constitution named Clifford
Constitution was promulgated. The Constitution provided for legislative
councils for the Colony and Southern Protectorate of Nigeria. The Northern
region was excluded from the council. The elective principle introduced paved
way for political parties only in the south.
3.
in 1946, another constitution named after Arthur Richards was promulgated. The
constitution introduced regionalism under which the country was divided into
three regions namely, North, West and East. There was, however, no
constitutional division of powers. Regional assemblies had no legislative
powers
4.
In 1951, the MacPherson Constitution introduced a quasi-federal system which
gave legislative powers on specific issues to the regional government but
subject to the ratification of the central government
5.
In 1954, the Lyttleton Constitution formally established a true federal system
of government which divided legislative powers into exclusive, concurrent and
residual lists. Premiers were appointed to head the three regions.
Federalism
have continued in Nigeria with a break in 1966 when Aguiyi lronsi's
administration attempted to revert Nigeria to a Unitary System. Federalism was
restored six months later by the government of General Yakubu Gowon. Federalism
has been in Nigeria with minor modifications and changes till date.
Factors
Responsible for the Adoption of Federalism in Nigeria
1.
Cultural Diversity. It is argued that cultural diversity among ethnic
groups in Nigeria makes the operation of a federal system possible (over 250
ethnic groups are in Nigeria).
2.
British Colonial Policy. Britain imposed a federal structure by dividing
the territory into regions and ruling them separately. It was the Lyttleton
Constitution that formally introduced a federal system to Nigeria in 1954.
3.
Site of the Country. Nigeria is a large country both in population and
territory and so federalism is a better option
4.
Availability of Human and Natural Resources: Nigeria has
enough of these resources to run a federal system.
5.
Geographical Factor. Different component units are geographically
near to one another making it easier for the option of a federal system.
6.
For Effective Administration: Federalism makes for
duplication of functions, creating the atmosphere for an enduring and effective
administration
7.
Bringing Government to the Grassroots: Federalism makes the
people to be involved in governance and policy making of their country
8.
The Rights of the Minorities and Other Interest Groups:
Minority rights are recognized and protected in a federal state.
Major
Constitutional Conferences that Precipitated the Establishment of Federalism in
Nigeria
Before
the formal establishment of federalism in 1954 under the Lyttleton Constitution
of 1954, the Colonial government have organized several constitutional
conferences namely:
1. the
1950 Ibadan Conference
2. 1953
London Conference and
3. 1954
Lagos Conference
The
Ibadan Conference of 1950
John
MacPherson on assumption of office as the Governor of Nigeria took steps to
avoid the mistakes of the former Governor, Sir Arthur Richard especially on the
issue of lack of consultation with the people of Nigeria before drafting the
1945 Constitution. He initiated moves for Nigerians to agree to constitutional
changes. The draft of the MacPherson Constitution was debated at the village,
district, provincial and regional levels and eventually a general conference
was held in Ibadan between 5th and 26th January 1950. The
following decisions were reached at the conference.
1.
The 1946 Richard Constitution did not provide any power for the regional
councils. The Conference gave limited legislative powers to the regions.
2.
Responsibility for ministers: The conference agreed that a council of
ministers should be created involving Nigerians
3.
Wider regional legislature: Regional legislature should be
created and made wider to accommodate more representatives.
4.
Increase legislative powers: With increase autonomy of the
regions, there should be a corresponding increase in their legislative powers
5.
House of representatives: To be enlarged making room for more
representatives.
6.
Increase seats: Northern Nigeria was to provide half of
the seats in the house of representatives i.e., 50% of the seats
7.
Revenue allocation: The conference agreed that an independent
commission should be constituted to be in charge of revenue allocation
8.
Powers of the tiers of government. The powers of the tiers
of government were defined and in case of conflict, the powers of the central
government should prevail
The
London Conference of 1963
This conference was held due to the collapse of
MacPherson Constitution of 1951. The conference was called by the Secretary of
State for the colonies, Oliver Lyttleton. The Conference was attended by 19
delegates from each region and 1 from the Cameroons.
The
following decisions were arrived at:
1.
There should be federal government and its powers should be clearly stated as
well as the regional government. The federal and residual lists were drawn up.
2.
The regional lieutenant governors should be called governors while the governor
of Nigeria should be called governor-general,
3.
Lagos should be separated from the western region and made a neutral federal
capital.
4.
That a conference to be held in Lagos in 1954 should ratify a separate regional
administration in the Cameroons if the people indicate interest through a
referendum.
5.
That Her Majesty's Government would grant self-government to those regions
which desire it in 1956
The
Lagos Conference of 1954
The conference was held as a follow up to the 1953
London Conference. It was to settle some unresolved political problems by the
1953 London Conference. The conference met in January 1954 under the
chairmanship of the Secretary of State for the Colonies. The conference
considered the reports of the Sir Louis Chicks Commission published in December
1953. The following were the decisions of the 1954 constitutional conference
held in Lagos:
1.
It accepted the proposals put forward by the Sir Louis Chicks Fiscal Commission
on the allocation of financial resources to the federal and regional
governments
2.
That the public service should be regionalized.
3.
It granted autonomy to Southern Cameroon
Constitutional
Evolution of Federalism Up To 1914
1.
In 1914, Lord Lugard amalgamated the Southern and Northern Protectorates for
easy administration.
2.
In 1922, the Clifford constitution made provisions for a legislative council
for the Colony of Lagos and Southern protectorate of Nigeria only.
3.
The 3 provinces became known as three regions-Northern, Western and Eastern
regions. This Introduction came in 1946 by Arthur Richards in his constitution.
Though regional assemblies were constituted, they had no power of legislation.
4.
Legislative powers on specific issues were given to regional assemblies, with
final approval from the central government. The Macpherson Constitution brought
these changes in 1951
5.
The Lyttleton constitution finally established a true federal structure in
Nigeria in 1954 Powers were shared between the central and regional government
with exclusive powers for the central government, concurrent for both
governments and residual powers for the regions.
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KEY
POINTS |
|
|
Reason for the adoption of
Federalism Cultural differences was a major
reason as only federalism can only be suitable for such ‘ Size of the country Common historical background Geographical contiguity Security consideration Fear of domination Employment opportunities Bring government closer to the
people
Advantages of federal system of
govt Unity in diversity Brings govt closer Employment opportunities Rapid development Prevention of emergence of
dictatorship Grassroot political participation
Demerits Costly (duplication of office) Lack of uniformity in
administration between state and federal Unhealthy rivalry It breeds sectional
consciousness. Rigid constitution The problem federal character
principles Secession is envisage-able Problem of wealth sharing
Structure of Nigerian Federalism Federalism before independence This commenced with colonial rule
(centralization) Amalgamation of the protectorates
1914 Southern protectorate divided
into western and eastern provinces 1939 The norther protectorate was
changed to a province The three (3) provinces became
regions 1949 In 1951 legislative power were
shared between house of representatives and regional houses of assembly 1954 the Littleton constitution
introduced a federal system of government (after the London conference 1953
and lagos constitutional conference of 1954)
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Nigeria began federalism formally
from the Littleton constitution Evolution of Nigerian Federalism 1960 to 1966 The independence constitution
retained the federal system In 1963, the mid west was carved
of the western region making a total of four regions 1967 1975 This era witnessed a military
interlude, where the political culture
of Nigeria was seriously influenced or interrupted. The military
interregnum started in 1966. By 1967, Gen Aguiyi Ironsi with
is decree No 34 (unification decree), introduced a Unitary system of
Government to Nigeria. Abolished the four regions 27th of May 1967
Yakubu Gown who took over from Aguiy ironsi created 12 more states (These
were created from the 4regions in other to weaken the eastern region) the
period (1967-1970) witnessed the Nigerian civil war. The republic of Biafra
made attempt to secede from Nigeria. (the failed Abuiri Accord) 1976 till date On 3rd 1976, Murtala
Mohammed created 7 more states On 23rd September 1987
Ibrahim Babangida created 2 states (akwa Ibom and Katsina) 1n 1993, Babangida created 9 more
states which made it 30 states On the 1st of October
1996, General Sanni Abacha created 6 more states totalling 36 states of
Nigeria Features of Nigerian Federalism ·
There
is constitutional division of power ·
Written
and rigid constitution ·
Secession
is not allowed (forceful breakaway) ·
Bi-Cameral
legislature ·
Supremacy
of the constitution ·
Supreme
court of Nigeria (the highest court) ·
The
three tiers derive power from the constitution
Revenue Allocation in Nigerian
Federalism Considerations in revenue
allocation in Nigerian Federalism ·
Principle
of derivation : The place where a resource is tajen from, should be
considered in the course of allocating resources (fijnances) ·
Population:
Population of places should be considered in the sharing of national
allocation ·
Even
development ·
Minimum
National standards
Problems of Nigerian Federalism 1.
Revenue
allocation: The demand for more revenues by states 2.
Minority
problem: Minority groups always feel neglected 3.
State
creation: this is linked with revenue allocation as they believe more states
will ensure more allocation and political appointments. 4.
Federal
character principle: Employment, appointment by tribe and ethnic background 5.
Corruption,
favoritism, nepotism 6.
Boundary
dispute 7.
Fear
of secession 8.
Census:
inflation of population
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Development
of Political Parties in Nigeria
The
Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) and the Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM)
were formed as political parties after the introduction of the Clifford
Constitution. They could not be said to be national parties since their
activities were mainly restricted to Lagos. However, at the end of the Second
World War, new political parties emerged and replaced the NNDP and NYM. Some of
these new parties were in two groups, major and minor parties. Some of the major
parties were the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), Northern
People’s Congress (NPC) Action Group (AG) Some of the minor parties were the
Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) United Middle Belt Congress (UMBC),
Dynamic Party (DP), Bomu Youth Movement (BYM) etc. Most of these parties, if
not all, were regional in outlook and based on ethnic sentiments. Some
scholars, however, have argued that the NCNC was more of a national party than
the others. Nevertheless, they were formed mainly to awaken people’s
consciousness towards the struggle for political independence.
Sources
of Finance for Political Parties
Generally
political parties are financed through the following channels/means
1 Donations
from foreign interests to political parties
2 Donations
from foreign interest to candidates
3.
Corporate donations to political parties
4 Corporate
donations to candidates
5. Grants
from government
6. Loans
from bank
7.
Membership levies/dues.
Background
to the Formation of The Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP)
The
introduction of the 1922 Constitution (Clifford), which provided for
representation in the Legislative Council in Lagos, led to the emergence of the
NNDP in 1923 by Herbert Macaulay. The party was established on 24th
June 1923. The party was regarded as the first political party in Nigeria. The
first president of the party was a Gambian born barrister, Egerton Shyngle, T.H.
Jackson was it first honorary secretary while 1.C Zizer was the first
solicitor.
The
party was mainly based in Lagos and did not have a national outlook. It
dominated Lagos politics between 1923 and 1933. It founded the Lagos Daily
News, which was an arm of the party that helped to encourage political
activities, especially in Lagos. The financing of the party was done by party members.
The
Organizational Structure of the NNDP
The
NNDP was not strictly a political movement it was later broken up into local
movements to take advantage of elective representation to the Lagos Town Council.
Being a local movement than a national party made it achieve less in terms
of stimulating nationwide political participation.
Sources
of Finance for the NNDP
The party
was financed by the following:
1.
Party
leaders
2.
Market
women
3.
Oba
of Lagos.
Aims and
Objectives of the NNDP
The
following are the aims and objectives of the NNDP
1.
To
elect members to the Lagos Legislative Council
2.
To
secure municipal status and local government for Lagos
3.
To
establish branches in other parts of the country
4.
To
foster higher education and economic development of natural resources in
Nigeria
5.
To
work towards the Africanization of the civil service
6.
To
work towards securing an atmosphere for free and fair elections.
7.
To
assist in providing necessary facilities for higher institution of learning in Nigeria
8.
To
co-operate and work together with the National Congress for British West
Africa (NCBWA)
Achievements
and Electoral Performance of the NNDP
Under
the leadership of Herbert Macaulay, the party became the most powerful group
and a major force in Lagos politics. This was after the victory of its
candidates in the elections into the Legislative Council in 1923, 1928,
and 1933.
The NNDP
recorded the following achievements:
1.
It
won the three seats allocated to Lagos in the Legislative council
through the elections conducted in 1923, 1928 and 1933.
2.
It
actualized the elective principle as the party contested the elections in 1923,
1928 and 1933
3.
It
was instrumental to the restoration of the Eleko who had been deposed and
deported by the colonial administration.
4.
It
motivated the establishment of other political parties e.g Lagos youth Movement
(LYM) NCNC etc.
5.
It
won the elective seats into the Lagos town council in 1923 and 1933
6.
It
provided an avenue for experimenting representative government
7.
It
boosted the political awareness of the people of Lagos
Formation
of The Nigeria Youth Movement (NYM)
The
NYM was formed by Lagos nationalist led by Ernest Ikoli, H.O Davies, Dr. J.C
Vaughan and Samuel Akinsanya in 1934. The party was first called Lagos
Youth Movement. By 1936, other Nigerians from other parts joined and the
name was changed to Nigerian Youth Movement. The movement later acquired
a national outlook as other prominent Nigerians joined from other parts of
Nigeria. For instance, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe. It was the first authentic Nigerian
nationalist movement.
Organizational
Structure of the NYM
1.
NYM
had a congress/convention as part of its organizational structure.
2.
It
had a national executive committee headed by a president.
3.
It
also had branches established in some urban areas throughout Nigerian and a committee
of twelve to prepare for the 1938 elections
4.
Its
national headquarters was in Lagos
Sources
of Finance for the NYM
The party
was financed through:
1.
Party
levies
2.
Donations
from members
3.
Loans
from wealthy individuals and financial institutions.
Aims and
Objectives of the NYM
The
following are the aims and objectives of the NYM
1.
To
develop a united nation out of conglomeration of people that inhabited Nigeria.
2.
To
pressurized the government to give scholarship to the youths to study
abroad.
3.
To
strive for the establishment of a new legislative council built on the
principle of an unofficial Majority.
4.
To
demand for equal economic opportunity for Nigerians with those enjoyed by
the foreigners
5.
To
demand for better pay for Africans in the civil service
6.
To
demand for higher executive opportunities for Africans within the civil
service
7.
To
see that more use are being made of Africans in the administrative branch of
the civil service.
8.
To
work for political emancipation of Nigerians with the aim of achieving complete
autonomy within the British Empire.
Achievements
and Problems of the NYM
Achievements
of the NYM
1.
In
1938, NYM won the election into the Lagos town council and all the three
elective seat allocated to Lagos in the legislative council. Thus, displacing
the NNDP
2.
It
gave birth to nationalism in Nigeria. Most of the political leaders who fought
for Nigeria until independence in 1960 were members (or products) of the NYM
3.
NYM
set the motion for Nigeria independence in 1960.
4.
A
powerful newspaper called Daily Service was established. Through this,
the NYM tried to educate the public on major political issues and its
activities
5.
The
NYM promoted the Nigerian unity and national consciousness by its nationwide
organization and membership.
Problems
of the NYM
The
resignation of the NYM president, Dr.Koto Abayom in 1941 led to jealousy and
evil machinations on the part of the supporters of its founding members. At the
time, there was a major feud between Ernest koli and Samuel Akinsaya
over the position of the presidency. This eventually led to the collapse of the
movement as its members became disintegrated.
The
Origin and Formation of the NCNC
In
1941, the boarding students of King’s College, Lagos were asked to leave their
hostels for soldiers and move to an indecent accommodation in the city. They
(students) reported to the government but nothing was done. A strike was
embarked upon, and 75 of the students were expelled and eight were conscripted
or forced into the military service.
In
June 1944, the Nigerian Union of students (NUS) called a mass meeting of the
Glover Memorial Hall Broadstreet, Lagos to consider the immediate organization
of a nation-wide committee to address the exploitation of and discrimination
against Nigerians by the British. The meeting was presided over by Herbert Macaulay.
A new association called the National Council of Nigeria emerged and Herbert Macaulay
was elected as the president while Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe was elected as the
general secretary
Membership
was through existing organizations and not individuals. The NNDP by January
1945 and other unions have joined the organization including three from
Cameroon. This led to the change of the name of the organization to national
council of Nigeria and the Cameroon NCNC). In 1960, when the southern Cameroon seceded
from Nigeria to join the other part of Cameroon, the name also changed to
National Convention of Nigeria Citizens (still NCNC)
ORGANIZATIONAL
STRUCTURE OF THE NCNC
Individuals
were allowed to join the party as from 1951. The party was said to have about
300 branches all over Nigeria with headquarters in Lagos and divisional headquarters
and working committee in each region. The party held annual conventions. The
party National executive committee was made up of national officers, regional
chairman and parliamentary leaders.
Sources
of Finance for the NCNC
1.
Overdraft
from African continental Bank
2.
Membership
subscription
3.
Affiliation
fess and dues
4.
Sales
of party constitution booklet and other items
5.
Levies
on the salaries of members of parliament and board members
6.
Donations
Leadership
and Membership of the NCNC
The
first president of the NCNC was Herbert Macaulay while Nnamdi Azikiwe was the
first General Secretary. Azikiwe later became the leader of the party after the
demise of Herbert Macaulay. Membership of the party was not open to individuals
but to various associations and organizations which were affiliated to the NCNC.
Thus, the NCNC was a sort of an umbrella body for various political, economic, Social
and cultural associations.
Objectives
and ideologies of the NCNC
1. To fight
for total freedom from colonialism
2. To
foster higher education in Nigeria.
3. To seek
nationwide support for political reforms
4. To
promote democratic governmental practices
5. To seek
the general welfare of the people of Nigeria and the Cameroons
Successes
of the NCNC
1.
It
was the first national party of Nigeria.
2.
It
was one of the three major political parties that won Nigeria’s independence.
3.
It
won several electoral victories into the legislative council in Lagos in the
1940s.
4.
It
had effective control of the former Eastern region.
5.
Its
electoral success led to its position as an opposition party in the former
Western region
7.
It
won several seats into the federal House of Representatives and the senate, and
in coalition with NPC, controlled the federal government in the first republic
(1960-1966) failures
Failures
of the NCNC
1.
Its
tribal base was a barrier to its national expansion. This occurred when the NPC
and Action Group members from the north and west gradually withdrew.
Note: The name of the party was changed
in 1960 to the National Council of Nigerian Citizens when Southern Cameroon
broke away from Nigeria.
Formation
of the Action Group
A
group of Yoruba students studying in Britain came together in 1945 and
established a cultural group called Egbe Omo Oduduwa. It later
metamorphosed to a political party called Action Group in March 1951.
The founder and leader of the party was late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Other influential members of the parties were: Akintola, Chief Shonibare,
Chief Bode Thomas, Oni of Ife, Sir Adesoj Aderemi etc
ORGANIZATIONAL
STRUCTURE OF THE ACTION GROUP
` Membership of A.G was open to
individuals not below 16 years of age. This party had branches in the Local
Government and ward level in each region. All units, divisions and members of
the party met annually. It had federal, regional and local government office.
Sources
of Finance for the Action Croup
The
Action Group was financed through the following
1.
Monthly
subscription of members
2.
Enrolment
fees
3.
levies
on the salaries of legislators and board members
4.
Sale
of flags, almanacs, handkerchiefs and publicity Materials
5.
Donations
6.
Overdraft
from national bank of Nigeria limited.
Objectives
of the Action Group
The
following are the objectives of the Action Group:
1.
To
encourage mass and qualitative education
2.
To
contest and win elections and control the western region
3.
To
challenge the political domination of NCNC in the western region
4.
To
cooperate with the nationalist and all tribal organization towards the
attainment of self-government for Nigeria.
Leadership
of the AG
Chief
Obafemi Awolowo was regarded as the life president of the Action Group. Besides
him were a host of leaders and followers at federal and regional levels.
Successes
of the Action Group
1.
It
was the first party to introduce free primary education in Nigeria in 1945.
2.
It
was the first to introduce free medical care.
3.
It
was the first to bring television to Nigeria
4.
It
was the first to award scholarship on a large scale for further studies.
5.
It
had firm control of the former western region.
6.
It
won several seats into the Federal House of Representatives and the Senate.
7.
It
was one of the three major political parties that led Nigeria to independence
Problems
of the Action Group
1.
The
party was ethnically based.
2.
Intra-party
problems divided it into two factions following the oft between Obafemi
Awolowo and S.L Akintola which sparked the beginning of its end.
FORMATION
OF THE NORTHERN PEOPLES CONGRESS (NPC)
In
1949, a cultural organization known as the Jamiyyar Mutanen Arewa
was formed. The original purpose of this organization was to enlighten the
people of Northern Nigeria. Soon after its formation the leaders of the
organization saw urgent need to make it a political one. In 1951, it changed
its name to Northern Peoples Congress and became a political party. The
emergence of the NPC was a reaction against the alleged threats of the
domination of the North by the southern politicians.
Organizational
Structure of the NPC
The
party was only open to natives of northern region. It did not seek support from
any other part of Nigeria. The following structures existed, National Executive
Committee (NEC) (It was the highest policy making body till 1957 when it was replaced
by the central working committee (CWC). The members of NEC and CWC met accessional.
Sources
of Finance for the NPC
The
Northern Peoples Congress (NPC) was financed through the following
1.
Sales
of membership card
3.
Donation
from members of central and regional executive council
4.
Money
realized from other social events organized by the party
Leadership
of the NPC
Like the
Action Group, the Northern Peoples of Congress had a life president in the
person of Sir Ahmadu Bello while Tafawa Balewa was chosen as its national
leader. There were also provincial and local leaders.
Party
Ideology
1.
To
encourage education-drive throughout the whole North and to improve the social,
economic and cultural life of the northern people.
2.
To
ensure one north one people irrespective of region, tribe or rank
3.
To
ensure that the voice of the people is heard in all the councils of the north.
4.
To
fight for regional autonomy within a united Nigeria
5.
To
eliminate bribery and corruption in all spheres of northern life.
6.
To
retain the traditional system of appointing Emirs with a wider representation
on the electoral committee
7.
To
eventually attain self-government for Nigeria within the commonwealth
Achievements
of the NPC
1.
It
controlled the former northern region.
2.
It
controlled the federal government in coalition with the NCNC in the first
republic.
Shortcomings
of the NPC
1.
It
failed to make developmental strides like the Action Group
2.
The
conservative line of the NPC caused some of its progressive elites, led by
Mallam Aminu Kano, to break away and form the Northern Elements Progressive
Union (NEPU)
NOTE:
Apart from the five major parties treated above, there were other small
political parties in Nigeria during
this period. These parties catered for minority ethnic groups. Some of these
parties were the NEPU, United Middle Belt Congress (UMBC) etc. Some of these
parties won insignificant number of seats in the federal elections of 1959 and
1964. Some of them later formed alliances with bigger parties to be relevant in
the political scene.
THE
NORTHERN ELEMENTS PROGRESSIVE UNION (NEPU)
It
was formed in August 1950 and was led by late Mallam Aminu Kano. It was
a radical party formed mainly to protect the interest of the minority.
It was one of the minor political parties in Nigeria. It enjoyed support
from the bigger parties outside its region and it was sometimes supported
financially by these big parties. It performed well in its areas of influence.
It performed well against NPC in the Tiv areas
FORMATION
OF THE NATIONAL PARTY OF NIGERIA (NPN)
The
National Party of Nigeria (NPN) was partly an offshoot of the NPC of the First
Republic. The majority of the leaders were from the former NPC, eg. Ali
Monguno, Adamu Ciroma, Adisa Akinloye (the party’s chairman) Shehu Shagari and
others.
Organizational
Structure of the NPN
There
are four levels of organization.
Level
one was made up of the town, clan, district and ward. The local government area
was classified under level two. The third was the state, while the national
constituted the fourth level. Each of these levels had a secretariat. The
national connection was the supreme authority of the party. Its meetings were held
once in a year, but a special convention could be held at any time, at the
request of the national executive committee, or two- thirds of all the state
executive committees. There was also a national working committee, which was
responsible for the day to day administration of the party.
This body was made up of the national
chairman, the president and vice president of the country (following the
success of the party at the 1979 federal elections), two deputy national
chairman, nineteen national vice- chairman, the national secretary and deputy
secretary, the national treasurer, the national legal adviser house of
representatives and three other persons elected by the national executive
committee.
Sources
of Finance for the NPN
The
major sources of funding the party were:
1.
Donations
2.
Allocation
from Federal Electoral Commission (FEDECO)
3.
Membership
subscriptions
4.
Sale
of party constitution booklet and other items.
The
Leadership of the NPN
The
major bulk of the leaders of the NPN came from members of the defunct Northern
People’s Congress (NPC) and few others from other parts of the country. The
leaders included Alhaj Aliyu Makama Bida, Ali Chroma, Inua Wada, Adisa
Akinloye, M.KO Abiola, Richard Akinjide. KO Mbadiwe, Olusola Saraki, CC. Onoh,
Clement isong, Joseph Tarka, etc
The Aims
and Objectives of the NPN
The aims
and Objectives of the NPN included the following:
1.
To
work towards making Nigeria a nation where the affairs of the government would
be conducted in accordance with the provision of the constitution.
2.
Provision
of shelter for the people of Nigeria
3.
Provision
of fundamental and qualitative education at the primary, secondary, vocational,
technical and university levels in accordance with the Nigeria constitution.
4.
Dedication
to the realization of a great improvement in the prosperity and welfare of the
rural dwellers
5.
Continuous
provision of adequate health facilities through various training programmes as
well as increased supply of drugs to all hospitals and provision of more health
facilities in various parts of the Country
5.
Provision
of food for the people through the policy of Green Revolution
6.
A
comprehensive programme of rapid industrialization
Achievements/Contributions
of the NPN
1.
The
party was more of a national party. The membership spread to almost all parts
of the country
2.
It
won the 1979 and 1983 Second Republic presidential election
6.
Executive
President It produced the first Executive President for the country The
President was both Executive President and head of state. It produced the first
Executive President for the country.
7.
Governorship
Election: It also won the governorship election in seven states of the
federation
8.
Housing
and Agricultural Programmes were pursued to some extent by the party.
9.
Political
Education: It helped in educating the members and the public on their political
rights.
10.
Recruitment
of Leaders. The party helped to recruit leaders to political offices in
government and within the parties.
FORMATION
OR ORIGIN OF THE UNITY PARTY OF NIGERIA (UPN)
The
Unity Party of Nigeria emerged on 22 September 1978, a day after the 21st
of September 1978 lifting of ban on political activities. It was formed by some
foundation members of the defunct Action Group (AG). Obafemi Awolowo was the
founder and leader of the UPN. Other key members included Adekunle Ajasin,
Lateef jakande, M.CK Ajuluchukwu, Professor FA Alli, Bola Ige, Philip Umeadi,
JS Olawoyin and SM Afolabil. Clement Gomwalk from Benue state was the national
secretary, while the national treasurer was Cluasurma from Benue State
Organizational
Structure of the UPN
The
party had the following organs
1.
The
national congress, which met once a year at such place and time as prescribed
by the national President
2.
The
national executive committee, which met as often and in such places as
prescribed by the national President, who also presided over such meetings a
State conferences held in each of the 19 states at least once every year, at
such place and time as prescribed by the chairman of the state conference
3.
State
executive council
4.
State
constituency meeting
5.
State
constituency meeting
6.
Local
or ward meeting
The
UPN, unlike all other political parties of significance, gave its national
president unusual powers which made him the most important man in the party.
Sources
of Finance for the UPN
The
sources of finance in the UPN were:
1.
Donations
2.
Allocations
from Federal Electoral Commission
3.
Membership
subscription 4 Sale of party constitution booklets and other items.
4.
The
most Important were donations and contributions from the Federal Electoral
Commission
Aims and
Objectives of the UPN
The aims
and objectives of UPN were embodied in its four cardinal point programme which
are:
1.
Free
education at all levels for all citizens of Nigeria, and free and compulsory
education at primary and secondary levels for children between the ages of sox
and seventeen.
2.
Integrated
rural development to encourage agriculture, boost the production of food, and
prevent Continuous migration from the rural areas to urban areas.
3.
Full
and gainful employment for all able-bodied Nigerian citizens. 4. Free health
services for all citizens of Nigerian
Performance
or Achievements of the UPN
1.
The
party won Governorship election in five states in 1979 namely, Lagos, Ondo,
Bendel, Oyo and state.
2.
The
party won seats into the senate and House of Representatives at the centre in
1979 and 1983.
3.
The
party provided free education in the states in controlled
4.
It
implemented free medical facilities in all the states controlled by the party
5.
The
party acted as a strong opposition to the ruling party, NPN in 1979 and in
19837
6.
The
party promoted fiscal discipline in all the states it controlled.
7.
The
party increased political consciousness through its programmes and campaigns
8.
It
was the first party to announce its existence after lifting of ban on political
activities in 1978
Formation
of the Nigerian Peoples Party (NPP)
It
was Alhaji Ibrahim Waziri who led the group of Nigerians that formed the
Nigerian Peoples Party (NPP). included:
Chief Adeniran Ogunsanya who later became the Chairman of the party, Chief Olu
Akinfosile, Chief Matthew.Mbu, Dr Obi Wali, Chief San Mbakwe, Chief Dominic
Nwobodo, Chief Salomon Lar, Alhaji Ado Ibrahim, etc. Chief Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe
joined the party after its formation and later became its leader. A major feature
of NPP was that majority of its members were members of the first republic NCNC.
Organizational
Structure of the NPP
The NPP organized its members at the following levels: The
ward/town, district level and the local government area (each having an
executive committee). There were also state organizations with each state
having a consultative committee, the executive committee, working committee, and
the parliamentary council of the state conventions. At the national level was
the national parliamentary council which was a caucus of the party’s federal legislators
to coordinate the workings of the members of the party in the National
Assembly. There were also a National Executive Committee (NEC) comprising
national officers, all state chairman, post national chairmen and members
holding key positions in the federal legislature.
Much
of the support for the NPP was from the old Anambra and Imo states in the East,
and Plateau and Benue states in the North. It had an alliance with the NPN in
the national assembly to facilitate the sources of the NPN controlled federal
government bills in the houses.
Sources
of Finance for the NPP
The
NPP received funds through party registration and membership fees, levies,
subscriptions of members and branches, proceeds from entertainments, donations,
sales of publicity items, and allocations from FEDECO
Aims and
Objectives of the NPP
1.
To
promote the unity of Nigeria and sustain her political and territorial
sovereignty
2.
To
work for full employment of Nigerian manpower and natural resources, with a
view to building a self-Reliant economy.
3.
To
promote at all levels equality of the people in Nigeria without discrimination,
including the description of national resources
4.
To
work towards a truly secular state that upholds democratic principles and
fundamental human Rights.
5.
To
work towards feeding and sheltering dozens of Nigerians
6.
To
work for the integration and equality of the people of Nigeria without regards
to ethnic and Religious affiliation
Performance
or Achievements of the NPP
1.
The
party won gubernatorial elections and controlled three states of Imo, Anambra
and Plateau.
2.
NPP
contributed a lot to the successful experimentation of the presidential system
of government
3.
NPP
contributed to producing potential prominent politicians in Nigeria
4.
By
signing a coalition accord with the NPN, the NPP saved the collapse of the
presidential system of government at its early inception.
5.
The
party also played opposition role successfully.
FORMATION
OF THE GNPP
The
GNPP was formed by Alhaji Wazin Ibrahim who was a foundation member of NPP. He
left NPP as a result of NPP chaos over the posts of party chairman and
presidential candidate, and formed the GNPP. Alhaji Waziri Ibrahim the author
and advocate of politics without bitterness became the national leader and the
presidential candidate of the GNPP. The party was formed in 1978.
Structural
Organization of the GNPP
The party
at the national level had the following organs:
1.
The
congress
2.
The
convention
3.
The
executive committee
4.
The
working committee
Of all
these, only the congress was not replicated at the state level where, in place
of the convention there was a conference. At the local government level was:
1.
The
general meeting
2.
The
executive committee
3.
The
working committee
At ward or
district level was
1.
The
general meeting
2.
The
executive committee.
The
National Congress was the supreme authority of the party. It was charged with
the power of laying down the broad principles and guidelines on which the party
was run. Membership of the national congress included all national and state
officers, all party members at the national assembly, all party members who
were state governors or federal ministers as well as representatives of state
and local party organs membership of the national executive committee included
all national officers of the party, all federal ministers, all governors
belonging to the party, and leaders of the party at the national assembly. The
NEC carried out the decisions and directions of the party congress and
convention. The national working committee was charged with the responsibility
of carrying out the directives of the NEC
Sources
of Finance for the GNPP
1.
Levies
2.
Membership
subscriptions
3.
Donations
4.
Federal
government allocation through the Federal Electoral Commission (FEDECO)
Aims and
Objectives of the GNPP
1.
To
sustain the unity of Nigeria
2.
To
promote equality of all people without regard for ethnic application, religion
and sex.
3.
To
pursue politics without bitterness
4.
To
pursue a dynamic foreign policy
5.
To
promote better standard of living for all Nigerians
6.
To
work towards free and high-quality education at all levels, and free and better
health services
7.
To
fight relentlessly against poverty
Performance
or Contributions/Achievements of the GNPP
1.
The
party won and controlled two states of Borno and Gongola
2.
It
won eight senatorial seats and 44 seats in house of representatives.
3.
It
also secured control of the house of Assembly in Gongola and Borno state
respectively
FORMATION/ORIGION
OF THE PEOPLE’S REDEMPTION PARTY (PRP)
With
the formation of the national movement which eventually became the NPN, a group
of radical socialists emerged in the northern states strongly opposed to the
conservative national movement. This group included public servants like Abubakar
Rimi and Balarabe Musa as well as University lecturers such as A.D Yahaja,
Bola Usman and Lekan Balogun at the Ahmedu Bello University Zaria. The group
lacked a recognized leader.
When
Aminu Kano quarreled with the national movement of his former party, he was
warmly welcomed as the leader of the people’s redemption party, Samuel koku,
who came with him from the national movement, became the national secretary of
the party.
Organizational
Structure of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP)
The
party had several organs. The national directorate was composed of national
officers, chairman of state directorates, the party parliamentary leader in
each state assembly, the senate and House of Representatives, plus two other
representatives selected to represent each state in the federation among which
there had to be three female members. Other organs of the party were the
national working committee, which was made up of the national officers (and
they met frequently to exercise the powers of the national directorates).
Sources
of Finance for the People’s Redemption Party (PRP)
1
Allocations from FEDECO donations
2.
Membership fees and levies
Aims and
Objectives of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP)
1.
Full
national liberation economically and politically
2.
Pursuance
of national unity and true democracy
3.
Equality
in the distribution of national opportunities
4.
Promotion
of African culture, trade etc
5.
Promotion
of agriculture through a national focus on huge peasant farming
Performance
or Achievements of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP)
1.
1t
won gubernatorial electron in two states namely Kano and Kaduna
2.
It
secured seven (7) seats in the senate and 49 in the House of Representatives.
3.
It
controlled the Kano state house of assembly
4.
The
PRP governors abolished the Haraj and Jugali taxes
which had been used as instruments of oppression in several parties of the
North
5.
In
Kaduna Governor Balarabe Musa abolished cattle tax, poll tax and similar
taxes for poorly paid Workers
Origin
or Formation of the Nigeria Advance Party (NAP)
The
Nigerian Advance Party (NAP) was not registered in 1978 by FEDECO for the 1979
elections because it failed to meet FEDECO conditions for registration. It was
later registered on 25 May 1982 to contest the 1983 general elections. The
party had radical change as its watchword, believing a revolution was needed to
solve Nigeria’s myriad problems. A Lagos lawyer, Tunji Braithwaite was
founder, party leader and presidential candidate. Other prominent leaders of the
NAP included Eweka Onyemelukwe, Usmani Gire, Joseph Sodirenye, Uba Mohammed,
Musa Salami and Reuben Kutok. The NAP contested only sixteen out of nineteen
governorship seats and won no election at the state or Federal level. it
however succeeded in raising the awareness for the need to involve young men
and women in politics
Organizational
Structure of the NAP
NAP
had its national and state executive committees. The highest body was the
congress of the party which because of the newness of the party could not meet
frequently. Tunji Braithwaite was nominated as the president of the party.
Membership of the congress was made up of delegates from the state branches of
the party, the national officers of the party and the state chairman of the
party. It was this body that formulated the broad policy.
Positions
of the party
Below the
state level, were local branches of the party.
Sources
of Finance for the Nigeria Advanced Party (NAP)
1.
Membership
fees.
2.
Donations
by members
3.
FEDECO
allowance
Aims and
Objectives of the NAP
The NAP
believed there was need for a radical change in the society through
1.
Eradication
of mosquitoes and rats
2.
A
low cost health insurance policy for all Nigerians
3.
The
establishment of Universal Electrification system (UES) that will replace
National Electrical Power Authority (NEPA)
4.
There
must be free flow of water for every Nigerians
5.
Freedom
from exploitation and harassment
6.
A
revolution in agriculture would lead to surplus food and surplus money from
food export as well as Industrialization
7.
All
Nigerians would have a health insurance policy for a small fee.
8.
Modern
roads, sidewalks and compulsory accommodation for workers.
9.
Pupils
and students would be regarded as workers and so would be given monthly
allowances.
Performance
Achievements or Contributions of the NAP
1.
The
party did not win any electoral seat of the legislative house in the nineteen
states of the federation
2.
It
did not win any seats in the national assembly
3.
Very
large number of its candidates lost their mandates at the election
4.
They
had less than 10 percent of the total votes cast
5.
The
presidential candidate and his running mate had the least number of votes at
the presidential Election of 1983.
6.
The
party had radical youths as members and some contested for political office
FORMATION
OF THE SDP AND NRC
The
military government headed by General Ibrahim Babangida came to power in 1985.
By 1986, the government set up a transition programme which was its process of
handling power over to civilian politicians. After the failure of the
associations that applied for registration, the government set up the National
Republican Convention (NRC) and Social Democratic party (SDP) in 1989.
The
main reason for establishing the two parties was to bring government closer to
the people at the grassroots, socio economic mobilization, and which would
establish a platform for new leadership and give equal rights and opportunities
to all Nigerians to participate in the political process. The two system were
also adopted to curtail the intra-party conflicts and alliances.
Structural
Organization of the SDP and the NRC
Membership
of the parties was open to every citizens of Nigeria irrespective of the
person’s religion, ethnic group, place of birth, sex, social or economic status.
It was mandatory for any willing person that wanted to join any of the parties
to register as a member of the party of his choice, at the ward in which he/she
resided. Such a person must be 18 years and above.
The organization
of the parties, SDP and NRC (which were of four levels) was as follows
1.
The
ward
2.
Local
government area
3.
The
state
4.
The
national level.
The
constitutions of the parties also provided for a functioning party secretariat
at the above levels of the party or organization. The organizational structure
of the parties SDP and NRC was as follow:
1.
Ward
executive committee
2.
Ward
congress
3.
Local
government area executive committee
4.
Local
government area congress
5.
State
executive committee
6.
State
congress
7.
National
executive committee
8.
National
convention
Sources
of Finance for the SDP and the NRC
Since
the two political parties were formed by the government, their major source of
finance was government subvention. However, the constitution of the parties
mandated each party members to pay the prescribed annual membership fees as may
be levied by the party. The decree that set up the parties also made provisions
for contributions by party sympathizers. Although contributions were
acceptable, no individual or organization could donate or contribute more than
N100,000 in a given year to a party or N50,000 to a party candidate.
Objectives
(Manifestos of the NRC)
The
manifestos of the NRC were rooted in the free enterprise economy in which
individuals would be allowed to participate economically, owning business of
their choice. Thus, the party hoped to build for the country a system of
political economy created substantially on individual initiative, open choices
and a free, competitive market.
Objectives
(Manifestos of the SDP)
The
manifestos of SDP stated that government of SDP would strive to build a
self-reliant economy that would develop on the strength of the nation’s resources
and by the efforts of the people. The party planned to pursue this objective by
making the state play a leading role in the attainment of a reliant and just
society. It also planned to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor
through an equitable income distribution policy and by providing full, gainful
employment for all citizens.
Performance
(Achievements) of the SDP
1.
It
sponsored candidates for elections between 1991-1993
2.
The
party contested and won many local government elections and elections into
state and federal parliaments. Also the party won gubernatorial elections in
many states of the federation, but it is assumed that it lost the annulled
presidential election of 1993
3.
It
promoted participatory democracy at all levels of government between 1991-1993
4.
It
won many gubernatorial elections to its credit and its presidential flag bearer
Chief M.K.O Abiola who was leading the presidential election of June 12, 1993
with majority votes from most states was annulled by General Ibrahim Babangida
Performance
(Achievements) of the NRC
1.
It
sponsored candidate for elections between 1991-1993.
2.
The
party contested and won many local government elections in many states and
federal parliaments Also, the party won gubernatorial elections in many states
of the federation, but it is assumed that it lost the annulled presidential
election of 1993.
3.
It
promoted participatory democracy at all levels of government between 1991 and
1993.
FORMATION
OF THE PDP
The
People’s Democratic Party (PDP) was formed by a group among the 34 eminent
Nigerians who had written a letter to General Abacha, opposing his nomination
as the sole candidate for the presidency in his transition-to-civil rule program.
With the lifting of the political activities by General Abubakar Abdulsalam
(after the death of Gen. Sanni Abacha), the majority of the group initiated a
political association and named it the People’s Democratic Party. It had
support from most parts of the country. Some of the prominent members of the PDP
were Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Solomon Lar, Philip Abiodun, Don Etiebet, Muhammedu Arzika,
Isa Mohammed, Dr John Nwodo, Graham Douglas, Olusegun Obasanjo, David
Jemibewon, Dr. Syorchia Ayu, Toni Anenih and Chief Igbinedion.
The
party led in the local government elections and won many councilor and local
government Chairmanship seats. It also won the majority of the seats in the
state and national assemblies in the Gubernational elections the PDP won 21
seats. At the Federal level Obasanjo the presidential candidate of the party
won and was sworn in as Nigerian President on May 29, 1999 with Alhaji Atiku
Abubakar as the vice president
Structural
Organization of the PDP
1.
Ward
congress
2.
Ward
executive committee
3.
Local
government executive committee
4.
Local
government area congress
5.
Senatorial
district working committee
6.
State
working committee
7.
State
caucus
8.
State
executive committee
9.
State
congress
10.
National
working committee
11.
National
caucus
12.
National
executive committee
13.
National
board of trustees
14.
National
conventions
Sources
of Finance for the PDP
1.
Registration
fee
2.
Subvention
from federal government (money given to political parties by the government
through INEC)
3.
Sales
of party materials e.g party flag. Party shirts etc.
4.
Donations
and contributions from member
5.
Subscription
from members (party levy)
Objectives
of the PDP (Manifestos)
1.
Free
and qualitative education
2.
National
integration
3.
Development
of agriculture
4.
Housing
for Nigerian citizens
5.
Rural
area development
6.
To
cooperate with African and other nationalist movements and organizations
working for the eradication of imperialism, neo-colonization and racism, and to
strive relentlessly towards African unity.
7.
To
build a strong and egalitarians society founded on the principle of freedom,
equality and justice.
8.
To
cooperate with member nations of the international organisations in promoting
their aims and regional groupings that shall be in the best interest of
Nigerian and Africa, and help to find just and Peaceful solution for
international disputes.
9.
To
promote mutual respect for and understanding of the religious, traditional and
cultural heritage of the various communities of Nigeria
10.
To
ensure genuine restoration permanent entrenchment and practice of democracy,
the rule of law, equity and social justice.
11.
To
uphold the independence of the judiciary, free press, as well as freedom of
speech and association
FORMATION
OF THE ALLIANCE FOR DEMOCRACY
The
Alliance for Democracy (AD) was registered as a political association mainly by
APP members who were dissatisfied with the broad membership of the APP
leadership at the time. The leadership of the Alliance for Democracy were
mainly from the people / politicians who maintained vociferous opposition to
the Abacha rule, under the aegis of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO).
They included Abraham Adesanya, Bola ige, Chuckuwemeka Ezelfie, Arthur Nwankwo,
Tanks Solanke Onasanya, Adebayo Adefarati, Ayo Opadokun, Yusuf Mamman and
Bassey Ekpo Bassey.
AD
was one of the political associations that were registered by INEC to contest
the December 1998 local government elections. The party came third behind the
PDP and APP. It won many seats during the state houses of assembly and national
assembly elections in 1999. It also won six gubernational seats, namely Lagos,
Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti States.
At
the presidential election, the party formed an alliance with the All Peoples
Party to present Chief Olu Falae as the president candidate, while Alhaji Umar
Shinkat of the APP was nominated as his running mate.
Organizational
Structure of the Alliance for Democracy (AD)
1.
The
National Convention (This is made up of The National Chairman, deputy national
chairman and six zonal vice chairmen. All members of the national executive
committee. The president, vice president, governors and deputy governors of the
party, ministers, advisers, state Legislature and national assembly members of
the party, Local government council chairmen, state secretaries of the party.
Five delegates from each local government area and two elected representatives
from the Federal Capital Territory. State chairmen of the party, party chairmen
in the local government areas and state commissioners, and advisers to the
governors.
Functions
of the National Convention
·
To
elect national officers and other members of the national executive committee
of the party.
·
To
approve the party’s programmes and projects
·
To
approve policies, guidelines and regulations to govern the conduct and
administration of the party
·
To
interpret and amend party constitution
·
To
elect the presidential candidate of the party and ratify the vice-presidential
candidate nominated by the presidential candidate
·
To
consider appeals on election
2.
National
Executive Committee
3.
State
Congress
4.
State
Executive Committee
5.
Local
Government Area Congress
6.
Local
Government Area Executive Committee
7.
The
Ward Congress
8.
Ward
Executive Committee
Sources
of Finance for the Alliance for Democracy (AD)
1.
Subventions
from the government.
2.
Donations
from members
3.
Registration
fees
Objectives
of the Alliance for Democracy (AD)
1.
To
attain political power through legitimate, democratic and constitutional means
2.
To
promote unity for the political stability of the country
3.
To
promote and to see to the workability of the development of science and technology.
4.
To
come up with an economic policy based on public participation with control in
the areas of production, distribution, and exchange of goods and services.
5.
To
promote and pursue economic social and political freedom as well as enhancing a
better standard of living for the people of the country.
4.
To
possibly institutionalize and foster representative democracy with strict
adherence to rule of law and due process in implementation of government
policies.
5.
To
promote the doctrine of democratic principles, constitutional and legitimate
means of acquiring Political power
6.
To
embark on the development of commerce and industry as well as agriculture.
7.
To
provide full and gainful employment for Nigerians that have the ability to work
8.
To
embark on an integrated rural development aimed at improving the quality of
life at the rural setting
9.
To
promote and provide the basic necessity of life such as housing, food, water,
free education, primary health care, security etc. for the people of the
country
10.
To
put in place conditions and structures that will guarantee social justice and
equality for all
11.
To
promote economic, social and physical freedom for all
12.
To
purse the development of science and technology
Performance
and Achievements of the AD
·
It
won and controlled six states of the southwestern zone by winning the
governorship elections in 1999 general elections and in 2003 it won and
retained only Lagos state.
·
It
took part in 1999 and 2003 general elections throughout the country and won
some seats in the National Assembly, State Assemblies and local government
election.
·
Through
their programs, it was said that the quality of life of those in rural areas
(under their party) improved considerably.
·
It
provided free primary and secondary education, and free primary healthcare
especially in the states controlled by AD.
·
It
promoted unity and supported every effort toward the political stability of the
country.
FORMATION
OF THE ALL PEOPLES PARTY (APP)
The
All People’s party (APP) grew out of the enthusiasm for a national party, after
the lifting of the ban or political activities by the General Abdulsalam
Abubakar administration in July 1998. In the group was Arthur Nzeibe of the
infamous Association for Better Nigerians, Dr. Olusola Saraki, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu
Olu Falae, Odumegwu Ojukwu, Gamaliel Onosode, Bankole Mahmud Wazin, Bode Olajumoke
and Joseph Wayas. The party contested the elections into the local government
councils and came second to the PDP. It also did well at the state houses of
assembly, national assembly and gubernatorial elections. The party won nine (9)
gubernational seats in the elections and the states were Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara,
Bomu, Yobe, Kogi, Gombe, Jigawa and Kwara.
The
party exhibited a conservative posture. It was a defender of northern interest
within the federation. Thereafter, the APP suffered a fractional split and
contested next round of election in 2013 as the All Nigerian People’s Party.
Sources
of Finance for the APP
As in other
political parties
Objectives
of the APP
1.
To
cooperate in fostering and promoting unity, political stability and engrain in
people the value for national consciousness
2.
To
vigorously pursue the execution of the programme of the party at all levels.
FORMATION
OF THE ACTION CONGRESS OF NIGERIA (ACN)
The
Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), formerly known as Action Congress (AC), is a
classical liberal Nigerian political party formed via the merger of the
Alliance for Democracy, the Justice Party, the Advance Congress of Democrats,
and several other minor political parties in September 2006. The faction was
led by Chief Bisi Akande. At the Kaduna convention by ballot. Bisi Akande
succeeded Hassan M. Zurmi as National Chairman, and Bashir Dalhatu replaced
Bumi Omoseyindemi as National Secretary.
The
party controls Lagos. It is regarded as a natural successor to the progressive
politics more closely associated with Action Group and UPN led by Chief Obafemi
Awolowo in the First and Second Republics respectively. However, criticism of
the party’s more pragmatic and less ideological political outlook associated
with AG and UPN has made many argue it as less of a worthy political heir. The
Party at the time had strong presence in the Southwest (5 Governors, 15
Senators and 6 State Houses), Mid-West (1 Governor) and North Central Regions (13
Senators). Lagos, Edo, Ekati, Kog, Ondo, Bauchi, Plateau, Niger, Adamawa, Oyo
and Osun states by far accounts for majority of the party’s presence and
discernable power base.
In
February 2013, the party announced plans to merge with the Congress for
Progressive Change (CPC), the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and a faction of
All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to form the All Progressives Congress
Objectives
of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN)
·
To
uphold and defend the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and other
laws in the Federation.
·
The
attainment of political power through legitimate, democratic and constitutional
means for the Purpose of cultivating an egalitarian society based on the
principles of equality, freedom and social Justice.
·
To
provide a purposeful and integrity driven leadership for Nigerians
·
To
promote unity and political stability by ensuring access to power and key
public offices by all sections of the country
·
To
establish conditions and structures which shall guarantee social justice, equal
opportunities, social, economic, and political freedom for the people and
ensure the general welfare of all peoples of Nigeria.
·
To
defend the sovereignty of the people and the observance of open democratic
process in all organs of the party, government and state
·
To
reduce poverty, want, ignorance, discrimination of all kinds, corruption, and
exploitation in our society.
·
To
maintain and promote the multi religious character of Nigeria, as well as religious
tolerance and Harmony
·
To
encourage the development of agriculture, commerce and industry.
·
To
ensure purposeful mobilization of the creativity and resources of the people of
Nigeria for the establishment of an economic environment in which opportunities
for the fulfilment of life and the pursuit of happiness shall be open to all
Nigerians (through a fair and equitable distribution of the wealth of the
Nation)
·
To
promote active participation of Nigerians in the strategic sectors of the
economy.
·
To
create enabling environment for full and gainful employment for all Nigerians
who are able and willing to work, and to secure for workers full fruits and
benefits of their labour.
·
To
provide the basic necessities of life, e.g, food, potable water, roads,
security, recreation facilities, Environmental protection etc.
Sources
of Finance for the CAN
As in other
political parties
Achievements
of the ACN
1.
The
ACN has recorded some relative success in its attempt to reposition the
South-West zone.
2.
On
its formation, in 2005, the party went on to win the Governorship election in
which Chief Raji Fashola was elected Executive Governor of Lagos State,
3.
ACN
has now replaced the ANPP as the dominant opposition party in the National
Assembly
4.
By
the outcome of 2011 election results, ACN had transited from a 1 state party to
a 4 state regional dominant party, and to a National political party.
5.
The
ACN won 14 out of 109 senate seats, and 55 out of 360 House of Representatives
seats
6.
The
ACN controlled 6 out of 36 states of the 2011 elections
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