Disadvantages

Expensive to operate – A federal constitution is too expensive to operate and maintain. This is as a
result of duplication of powers and functions.

Rigid constitution – A federal constitution is rigid, making it difficult to amend, even in a state of
emergency. Amendment of the constitution involves about two-third (2/3) of the Parliament supporting
it and 3/4 of state assemblies equally supporting it.

Statism and regionalism – People often pay loyalty more to their states or regions than to the national
government. To them, states come first before the central government.

Seccession – A section of the country may have feelings of rejection and would want to secede or break
away.

Issue of minorities – The minority might feel neglected in the areas of provision of infrastructure and
employment opportunities. This can affect the unity of any country.

Unhealthy rivalry – This could come up among states in the areas of developments and revenue
allocations.

Duplication of functions – This can bring about waste of resources and revenue in both human and
material.

Revenue allocations – This is always a problem with a federal state. The formula used at a particular
time may not appeal to any of the tiers of government.

Weak central – A federal constitution may produce a weak national government. This may affect
decision-making and states may take the advantages of this to arrogate more powers to themselves