Question 73 of 378

The first Nigerian constitution to provide for the fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy was the

  • A. 1979 Constitution
  • B. 1989 Constitution
  • C. 1999 Constitution
  • D. 1960 Constitution

Correct Answer: A

Explanation
The correct option is A. 1979 Constitution. Detailed Explanation
  1. Understanding the Context: The fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy are essential components of a constitution that outline the goals and responsibilities of the government. They serve as guiding principles for governance and policy-making, ensuring that the state works towards the welfare of its citizens.
  2. Historical Background: Nigeria has had several constitutions since gaining independence in 1960. Each constitution has contributed to the evolution of governance in the country. The 1979 Constitution was significant because it marked Nigeria's transition to a presidential system of government and introduced several new features, including the fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy.
  3. Key Features of the 1979 Constitution:
  4. The 1979 Constitution explicitly included a chapter on the fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy (Chapter II). This chapter outlined the goals of the state, such as promoting social justice, economic development, and the welfare of the people.
  5. It emphasized the role of the government in ensuring that policies are directed towards achieving these objectives, thereby making it a foundational document for governance in Nigeria.
  6. Comparison with Other Options:
  7. B. 1989 Constitution: While the 1989 Constitution attempted to build on the 1979 Constitution, it did not introduce a new framework for the fundamental objectives and directive principles. Instead, it was more of a modification and did not significantly change the existing provisions.
  8. C. 1999 Constitution: The 1999 Constitution, which restored civilian rule after years of military governance, retained the provisions of the 1979 Constitution regarding fundamental objectives and directive principles. However, it did not originate these principles; it merely continued them.
  9. D. 1960 Constitution: The 1960 Constitution was Nigeria's first post-independence constitution and did not include any provisions for fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy. It primarily focused on establishing a parliamentary system and did not address the broader goals of governance.
Summary of Key Points
  • The 1979 Constitution was the first Nigerian constitution to introduce the fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy.
  • It established a framework for governance aimed at promoting social justice and the welfare of citizens.
  • The 1989 Constitution and 1999 Constitution built upon the 1979 Constitution but did not originate the principles.
  • The 1960 Constitution did not include any provisions for these objectives, focusing instead on the structure of government.
Revision Summary
  • The 1979 Constitution introduced fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy in Nigeria.
  • These principles guide government actions towards social justice and citizen welfare.
  • The 1989 and 1999 Constitutions retained these principles but did not create them.
  • The 1960 Constitution lacked any provisions for these objectives, focusing on governance structure instead.
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