Merits of the Clifford Constitution of 1922 in Nigeria are:
(a)(i) The constitution introduced elective principles which for the first time allowed Nigerians to elect their representatives to the legislative council
(ii) It paved way for the formation of political parties in Nigeria.
(iii) More Africans were allowed into the legislative council.
(iv) It was the first written constitution for Nigeria.
(v) It established a constitutional government in Nigeria as opposed to government by statutory instrument or orders.
(vi) It increased political awareness through political education during political campaigns.
(vii) It enhanced greater political participation by means of political party membership etc.
(viii) It laid the foundation for Nigeria self-government.
(ix) The constitution later generated political controversies, which helped to increase the tempo of Nationalism in Nigeria. This led to its revision in subsequent constitutions.
(b)(i)The British still dominated the Legislative Council.
(ii) Majority of the members of the Legislative Council were nominated, not elected.
(iii) The Executive Council was made up of officials to the exclusion of Nigerians.
(iv) The application of the elective principle was limited to Lagos and Calabar.
(v) The Constitution limited its jurisdiction only to the Southern provisions.
(vi)The Governor was vested with veto and reserved powers.
(vii) The franchise was tied to wealth of N200 (One hundred pounds) and residing in Lagos or Calabar.