GOVERNMENT ANSWERS
GOVERNMENT OBJ
01-10: DCBADCBDCB
11-20: AABCCAACDA
21-30: BACACCBCBC
31-40: ACACCDCDDC
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ANSWER FIVE (5) QUESTIONS ONLY
PART I
(1a)
Political authority refers to the legitimate power that a governing body or political entity holds to create laws, enforce rules, and require obedience from its citizens. It encompasses the moral right to govern and the obligation of citizens to comply with the laws and directives issued by the authority.
(1b)
(i) Traditional Authority:
Traditional authority is based on established customs, practices, and long-standing social structures. It derives legitimacy from historical precedents and cultural norms. Leaders in this category often inherit their positions through family lineage or social status.
(ii) Charismatic Authority:
Charismatic authority arises from an individual's personal qualities and extraordinary characteristics that inspire loyalty and devotion among followers. This type of authority is often seen in revolutionary leaders or influential figures who mobilize people through their charisma and vision.
(iii) Rational-Legal Authority:
Rational-legal authority is grounded in established laws and regulations that govern a society. It is characterized by a bureaucratic structure where authority is derived from legal frameworks rather than individuals. Compliance is based on adherence to rules rather than personal loyalty.
(iv) De Facto Authority:
De facto authority refers to the actual power exercised by an individual or group, regardless of whether it is recognized as legitimate by law or society. This type of authority may arise in situations where a government or leader has taken control without formal legal backing.
(v) De Jure Authority:
De jure authority pertains to the legitimate right to govern as recognized by law or societal norms. This form of authority is often established through legal frameworks and accepted governance structures.
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(2a)
Government as an academic field of study refers to the systematic examination of political institutions, processes, and theories that govern societies. This field encompasses various aspects of governance, including the analysis of political systems, the role of government in society, and the impact of policies on citizens. It is often studied under the broader discipline of Political Science.
(2b)
(i) Free and Fair Elections:
A hallmark of democratic governance is the conduct of regular elections that are free from manipulation or coercion. Citizens should have the right to vote for their representatives without undue influence, ensuring that electoral outcomes reflect the will of the people.
(ii) Rule of Law:
In a democracy, the rule of law prevails, meaning that laws apply equally to all individuals, including government officials. This principle ensures accountability and protects citizens' rights against arbitrary actions by authorities.
(iii) Political Pluralism:
Democratic governments encourage a multiparty system where multiple political parties can compete for power. This diversity allows for a range of perspectives and opinions to be represented in governance, promoting healthy political debate and participation.
(iv) Protection of Fundamental Rights:
Democracies safeguard individual rights and freedoms, such as freedom of speech, assembly, religion, and the press. These rights are essential for fostering an open society where citizens can express their views and participate in the political process without fear of repression.
(v) Citizen Participation: A democratic government relies on active participation from its citizens beyond just voting in elections. This includes engaging in public discourse, joining civic organizations, participating in community activities, and holding elected officials accountable through various means.
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(3a)
Political socialization is the process through which individuals acquire their political beliefs, values, attitudes, and behaviors. This process helps shape how people understand and engage with the political world around them. Political socialization occurs throughout an individual’s life but is especially pronounced during childhood and adolescence when foundational beliefs are formed.
(3b)
(i) Family:
The family is often considered the primary agent of political socialization. From an early age, children observe and absorb the political beliefs and values of their parents and family members. Discussions about politics at home, parental attitudes toward authority, and family traditions significantly shape a child's political identity. For instance, children may adopt their parents' party affiliations or views on social issues based on familial influence.
(ii) Educational Institutions:
Schools play a crucial role in political socialization by teaching students about government structures, civic responsibilities, and democratic values. Through curricula that include subjects like history and social studies, students learn about their country's political system and the importance of participation in civic life. Additionally, schools often provide a platform for students to engage in discussions about current events and develop critical thinking skills related to politics.
(iii) Mass Media:
Mass media, including television, newspapers, radio, and online platforms, significantly influences public perceptions of politics and government. Media serves as a primary source of information about political events, candidates, policies, and societal issues. It shapes public opinion by framing news stories in particular ways and providing commentary that can sway viewers' attitudes. The increasing use of social media has further amplified this influence by allowing individuals to share opinions and engage in discussions about political matters.
(iv) Peer Groups:
Peer groups consist of friends, colleagues, and social networks that can impact an individual's political views and behaviors. As individuals interact with their peers, they may adopt or challenge each other's beliefs based on shared experiences or discussions about political topics. Peer influence is particularly strong during adolescence when individuals seek acceptance and validation from their social circles.
(v)Political Parties and Interest Groups:
Political parties and interest groups actively engage in the political socialization process by promoting specific ideologies and mobilizing supporters. These organizations educate members about policies, advocate for particular issues, and encourage participation in elections or activism. Through campaigns, rallies, and community outreach efforts, they shape public attitudes toward various political issues.
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(4a)
Representative government is a political system in which citizens elect representatives to make decisions and enact laws on their behalf. This form of government is based on the principle of popular sovereignty, where the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the governed. In a representative government, elected officials are accountable to their constituents and are expected to act in accordance with the interests and preferences of the people they represent.
(4b)
(i) Independent Electoral Commission:
An independent body responsible for overseeing elections is crucial for ensuring fairness and transparency. This commission should be free from political influence to guarantee that elections are conducted impartially, allowing for genuine competition among candidates.
(ii) Free and Fair Elections:
Elections must be conducted periodically and be free from fraud, coercion, or manipulation. This includes ensuring that all eligible citizens have the right to vote and that their votes are counted accurately. Free elections foster trust in the political system and encourage citizen participation.
(iii) Universal Adult Suffrage:
The right to vote should be extended to all adult citizens without discrimination based on race, gender, socioeconomic status, or other factors. Universal suffrage ensures that the political representation reflects the diversity of the population.
(iv) Rule of Law:
A representative government operates under a framework of laws that apply equally to all individuals, including those in power. The rule of law protects citizens' rights and ensures that elected officials are held accountable for their actions.
(v) Freedom of Expression and Press:
Citizens must have the right to express their opinions freely and access information about political candidates and issues. A free press plays a vital role in informing the public about government actions, policies, and electoral processes,
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(5a)
(i) Provision of Essential Services: Public corporations often provide critical services such as water, electricity, transportation, and healthcare that are necessary for societal welfare and economic development.
(ii) Promotion of Economic Development: They invest in infrastructure and industries to stimulate economic growth, especially in sectors that may not attract private investment due to low profitability.
(iii) Employment Generation: Public corporations create jobs and provide opportunities in areas where private sector employment might be limited.
(iv) Revenue Generation for the Government: Many public corporations contribute to the government’s revenue through profits, taxes, or other forms of financial returns.
(v) Control of Strategic Sectors: They ensure government control over sectors of strategic importance like defense, energy, and telecommunications to safeguard national interests.
(5b)
(i) Frequent change of government: This can affect the efficiency of public corporation. It can produce or result in frequent and unreasonable changes of officials and this can affect the efficient performance of some of the public corporations
(ii) Victimization : There could be political victimiza-tion of officials of public corporation especially if the officials are not ready to dance to the tune of the party in government.
(iii) Inadequate qualified personnel : Most qualified technicians and professionals may not join any of the corporations probably as a result of poor conditions of service.
(iv) Frequent political interference: This interference may come from the executive or legislative arms of government and this may affect the efficiency of public corporations.
(v) Poor attitude to Work: Most of the workers display ' I don't care attitude', to work. They see the corporations as belonging to nobody and so poor attitude to work is the result.
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PART II
(6a)
Nationalism is a political ideology and movement that emphasizes the interests, culture, and identity of a specific nation or group of people. It seeks to promote self-determination, independence, and sovereignty, often advocating for freedom from external control or colonial domination.
(6b)
(i) World Wars (WWI and WWII):
West African soldiers who fought alongside European powers were exposed to ideas of equality and self-determination. Upon their return, they became vocal about the need for independence and equal rights.
(ii) Pan-Africanism:
The Pan-African movement, led by figures like W.E.B. Du Bois and Marcus Garvey, inspired unity among Africans and encouraged anti-colonial sentiments. It emphasized African pride and solidarity.
(iii) Education Abroad:
Many West Africans who studied in Europe or America were exposed to liberal and nationalist ideas. They became leaders of independence movements, advocating for political reform and self-rule.
(iv) Formation of the United Nations:
The establishment of the UN and its emphasis on human rights and self-determination provided a platform for colonized nations to demand independence.
(v) Decline of European Powers:
The economic and political decline of colonial powers after WWII weakened their grip on colonies. Movements for independence gained momentum as these powers struggled to maintain control.
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(7a)
(i) Promotion of Democracy: To foster democratic principles and governance in Nigeria by ensuring active citizen participation in the political process.
(ii) National Unity: To work towards the unity and integration of the diverse ethnic and cultural groups within the country.
(iii) Social Welfare: To improve the living standards of Nigerians through policies aimed at social development, including education, health, and employment.
(iv) Economic Development: To promote economic growth by encouraging industrialization, agriculture, and the establishment of local businesses.
(v) Equal Opportunities: To ensure equal rights and opportunities for all citizens, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, or social status.
(7b)
(i) Membership Fees: Regular contributions from party members in the form of registration and subscription fees.
(ii) Donations and Contributions: Financial support from individuals, corporate organizations, and philanthropists sympathetic to the party's cause.
(iii) Fundraising Events: Proceeds from organized events such as dinners, rallies, and other activities aimed at mobilizing resources.
(iv) Government Grants: Allocations from the government as provided by the electoral laws of the Second Republic to political parties.
(v) Sale of Party Merchandise: Income from selling items like party flags, badges, and other paraphernalia to supporters.
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(8a)
(i) Inadequate Funding: Many local governments rely heavily on federal allocations, and the funds they receive are often insufficient to meet their responsibilities, leading to poor service delivery.
(ii) Corruption and Mismanagement: Corruption is prevalent in many local governments, with funds often misappropriated by officials, hindering development projects.
(iii) Lack of Skilled Personnel: Many local governments suffer from a shortage of qualified and skilled workers, limiting their capacity to implement policies and deliver essential services effectively.
(iv) Political Interference: State governments often interfere in the operations of local governments, limiting their autonomy and effectiveness.
(v) Poor Infrastructure: Inadequate infrastructure, such as roads, electricity, and communication facilities, hampers the effective functioning of local governments.
(vi) Limited Public Participation: Many citizens are unaware of their rights and responsibilities, resulting in minimal community involvement in decision-making processes.
(8b)
(i) Increased Autonomy: The reform granted local governments more independence, enabling them to handle local issues without excessive interference from state governments.
(ii) Standardization: The reform introduced uniformity in the structure and operation of local governments across Nigeria, ensuring consistency in administration and service delivery.
(iii) Enhanced Grassroots Participation: By emphasizing the importance of local governance, the reform encouraged community involvement in decision-making and development projects.
(iv) Improved Funding Mechanism: The reform ensured direct allocation of funds to local governments from the federal government, reducing delays and financial bottlenecks caused by intermediaries.
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