Back to: History Primary 1
Hello, my bright and curious Afrilearn superstar! I hope you are having a wonderful day. Today, we are going to learn about an important moment in Nigeria’s history—the first election in Nigeria! Elections allow people to choose their leaders, and Nigeria’s first election helped shape the country’s democracy. Get ready for an exciting lesson!
First Election in Nigeria
Have you ever seen adults go out to vote during an election? Elections are a way for people to choose their leaders. But did you know that before Nigeria became independent, there was a time when people had no say in who ruled them? The first election in Nigeria was an important step toward self-rule and democracy.
The first election in Nigeria was held in 1923 during British colonial rule. Before this time, Nigerians were ruled by the British Governor without any say. But in 1922, the British introduced the Clifford Constitution, which allowed some Nigerians to vote for representatives in the Legislative Council (a group that advised the Governor on laws). This led to Nigeria’s first election in 1923.
Key Facts About the First Election
- It was held in 1923 under the Clifford Constitution.
- It allowed Nigerians to elect only four representatives to the Legislative Council.
- Only people in Lagos and Calabar could vote because other parts of Nigeria were not included.
- Only wealthy men who earned at least £100 per year were allowed to vote—poor people and women were not allowed.
- Nigeria’s first political party, the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP), was formed by Herbert Macaulay to contest in the election.
More Elections Before Independence:
After the 1923 election, more elections were held as Nigeria moved towards independence. Some of the major ones include:
- 1951 Elections: Allowed more Nigerians to participate in government.
- 1959 Elections: The first nationwide election to choose leaders for an independent Nigeria. This election led to Nigeria’s independence in 1960.
Clear and Relatable Examples:
Imagine if only two cities in Nigeria were allowed to vote while everyone else had no say. That was how the 1923 election was—it only included people in Lagos and Calabar, and only rich men could vote.
Also, think about a school where prefects are always chosen by teachers instead of students. That would not be fair, right? Elections give people the chance to choose their leaders, just like the first election in Nigeria started giving Nigerians a voice.
Conclusion:
The first election in Nigeria was held in 1923 under British rule. It allowed only a few Nigerians to vote, but it was an important step toward self-government. More elections were held later, leading to Nigeria’s independence in 1960. Today, elections are an important part of Nigeria’s democracy, allowing all adults to choose their leaders.
Evaluation:
- In what year was Nigeria’s first election held?
- What constitution introduced the first election in Nigeria?
- Who was allowed to vote in the 1923 election?
- What was the name of Nigeria’s first political party?
- Why was the first election important in Nigeria’s history?
Affirmation:
You are a future leader who can help make Nigeria better! Just like the first voters in Nigeria, your voice matters. Keep learning, keep believing in yourself, and keep shining with Afrilearn. See you in our next lesson!
Get more class notes, videos, homework help, exam practice on Android [DOWNLOAD]
Get more class notes, videos, homework help, exam practice on iPhone [DOWNLOAD]