(a) A constitution could be defined as the fundamental laws customs, conventions, rules and regulations stipulating how a country is governed. The constitution also explains the working of the organs of government, the functions of the government functionaries and the rights, duties and obligations of its citizens. The term constitutionalism refers to a limited government. It means that the power of government should be defined and limited by the laws of the land as embodied in the constitution. The activities and functions of those in government should conform with the provisions of the constitution. The constitution, therefore, has succeeded in describing the different organs of government, their functions and how they relate to one another . Constitutionalism as a principle is not a constitution but only puts limitation to the activities of individuals and the government etc. This principle also empowers the judiciary to declare illegal or unconstitutional actions of those in government that contradict with the provisions of the constitution. Individuals also can challenge any actions of government seen as unconstitutional in courts.
(b) Characteristics of a Constitutional Government:
(1) There must be independent and impartial judiciary.
(ii) The Fundamental Human Rights must be recognised and protected.
(iii) There is the existence of party systems e.g two-party, multi-party systems.
(iv) Everybody should be equal before the law.
(iv)The application of the principles of separation of powers.
(v) Citizens have equal political rights to vote and be voted for in any political election.
(vii) There should be freedom of the press, no censorship.
(viii) The procedure for changing government should be entrenched in the constitution.
(ix) There should be the application of the rule of law as contained in the constitution.