AP Comp Gov Nigeria federalism and ethnic cleavages study guide

What is federalism?

Federalism is a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and regional entities.

Fill in the blank: Nigeria's federal system was established in _____.

1979.

True or False: Nigeria is a unitary state.

False. Nigeria operates under a federal system with multiple levels of government.

Compare federalism in Nigeria and the United States.

Both have a division of powers, but Nigeria's federalism is more influenced by ethnic divisions.

What are the three tiers of government in Nigeria?

1. Federal Government 2. State Governments 3. Local Governments

How does federalism affect ethnic relations in Nigeria?

Federalism can exacerbate ethnic tensions by allowing regions to favor local ethnic groups.

What roles do states play in Nigeria's federal system?

States have their own governments, can create laws, and collect certain taxes.

Cause → Effect: How does federalism lead to local governance?

Federalism decentralizes power, allowing local governments to address regional issues directly.

Fill in the blank: Nigeria's Constitution provides for ____ states.

36 states.

What is the impact of federalism on resource allocation in Nigeria?

Resource allocation can lead to disputes, especially over oil revenue among states.

True or False: Ethnic groups in Nigeria have equal representation in the federal system.

False. Some ethnic groups dominate certain regions, leading to unequal representation.

What is the concept of state quotas in Nigeria?

State quotas mandate that certain positions in government must be filled by candidates from various states.

How has federalism contributed to political instability in Nigeria?

Federalism can lead to competition among states for resources, causing conflict and instability.

What is the role of the National Assembly in Nigeria’s federal system?

The National Assembly enacts federal laws and represents the interests of various states.

Fill in the blank: Nigeria's federalism was influenced by British colonial rule and has evolved since _____.

1960.

What are the advantages of federalism in Nigeria?

1. Local governance 2. Cultural representation 3. Tailored policies for diverse regions.

Nigeria's three major ethnic groups?

Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, Igbo.

True or False: Ethnic cleavages have no impact on Nigerian politics.

False. Ethnic cleavages significantly influence political alliances and conflicts.

Hausa-Fulani characteristics?

Dominant in the North; primarily Muslim; political power concentrated in elites.

Yoruba political influence?

Strong in southwestern Nigeria; known for cultural unity; significant in politics and education.

Igbo ethnic group traits?

Predominant in southeastern Nigeria; largely Christian; historically influential in trade.

What sparked the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970)?

Igbo secession attempt leading to Biafra; ethnic tensions escalated.

Effects of ethnic politics in Nigeria?

Political instability, marginalization of minorities, conflicts, and violence.

Comparison of Hausa-Fulani and Igbo?

Hausa-Fulani: Muslim, northern, centralized power; Igbo: Christian, southeastern, democratic leanings.

Political party dominance in Nigeria?

Ethnic-based parties often dominate regionally, reinforcing cleavages.

Example of ethnic conflict in Nigeria?

Sharia law implementation in northern states; tensions between Muslims and Christians.

What are ethnic militias?

Groups formed for protection or political goals; e.g., Odua People's Congress (Yoruba).

The impact of colonialism on ethnic groups?

Colonial borders ignored ethnic lines, exacerbating tensions post-independence.

What is the role of ethnicity in elections?

Ethnic identity often determines voting patterns; candidates appeal to their ethnic base.

True or False: Nigeria has successfully resolved its ethnic tensions.

False. Ethnic tensions remain a persistent challenge in governance.

The Biafran War's long-term effects?

Continued mistrust among ethnic groups; impact on national identity.

How does federalism relate to ethnic cleavages?

Federalism allows ethnic groups to assert identity within political structures.

What is ethnic federalism?

A system where political units are organized along ethnic lines; Nigeria's model.

Key feature of ethnic pluralism in Nigeria?

Diversity of ethnic groups contributes to a complex political landscape.

What influences political loyalty in Nigeria?

Ethnicity often dictates party affiliation and support; loyalty to ethnic leaders.

The impact of the 1999 Constitution on ethnicity?

It aimed to address ethnic representation, yet tensions persist.

What are Nigeria's three branches of government?

Executive, Legislative, Judicial - Each branch operates independently, ensuring checks and balances.

True or False: Nigeria has a unitary system of government.

False: Nigeria operates a federal system, dividing powers between national and state governments.

Fill in the blank: The Nigerian Constitution was adopted in _____.

1999 - Marking the transition to civilian rule after military governance.

How does Nigeria's federalism accommodate ethnic diversity?

- Allocates power to states - Allows ethnic representation - Promotes local governance.

What is the role of the National Assembly in Nigeria?

Legislature responsible for making laws, representing various ethnic constituencies, and overseeing the executive.

Compare the roles of the President and Governors in Nigeria.

President: National leadership, oversees federal administration. Governors: State leadership, manage local affairs.

What is the Supreme Court's function in Nigeria?

Highest court, interprets laws, resolves disputes, ensures justice in federal matters.

True or False: Political parties in Nigeria are primarily based on ethnicity.

True: Many parties align with major ethnic groups, influencing political dynamics.

What are the two tiers of government in Nigeria?

Federal and State - Each tier has specific powers and responsibilities outlined in the constitution.

Cause → Effect: What happens when ethnic groups dominate political power?

- Increased tensions - Risk of conflict - Marginalization of minority groups.

What is the significance of Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Nigeria?

- Local governance - Direct service delivery - Representation of diverse communities.

Identify a key challenge facing Nigeria's political institutions.

Corruption: Undermines governance, erodes public trust, contributes to instability.

What year did Nigeria gain independence?

Nigeria gained independence from Britain on October 1, 1960.

True or False: Nigeria was a unitary state before federalism.

True. Nigeria was initially a unitary state under colonial rule, leading to federalism post-independence.

Cause → Effect: Colonial policies → Ethnic tensions

Colonial policies favored certain ethnic groups, causing divisions and tensions among others.

What are the main regions of Nigeria historically?

The main regions included the North, West, and East, each with distinct ethnic groups.

What was the impact of the 1966 coups?

The coups exacerbated ethnic tensions, particularly between the Igbo and Hausa-Fulani.

Fill in the blank: The ___________ War was a significant conflict due to ethnic cleavages.

Biafran War. This conflict from 1967 to 1970 involved the secession of the Eastern Region.

Compare the 1960 and 1979 constitutions.

1960: Westminster model; 1979: Presidential system, more federal powers to states.

What role did the Nigerian Civil War play?

It intensified regionalism and ethnic identities, shaping Nigeria's federal structure.

True or False: Nigeria's federalism is purely based on geography.

False. Nigeria's federalism is also influenced by ethnic affiliations and historical conflicts.

What was the purpose of the 1999 constitution?

To restore democratic governance and address ethnic and regional disparities in Nigeria.

What is a significant legacy of colonial rule in Nigeria?

The creation of arbitrary borders that grouped diverse ethnicities, leading to ongoing conflicts.

What are 'ethnic federalism' implications?

It aims to accommodate diverse groups but can lead to increased competition and conflict.