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WAEC: GOVERNMENT 2021 Government WAEC (WASSCE) Past Questions 2021 Government WAEC (WASSCE) Theory Past Questions (Paper 2)
Lesson 3, Topic 1
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2021 Government WAEC (WASSCE) Theory Past Questions (Paper 2)

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Content:

  • 2021 Government WAEC (WASSCE) Theory Past Questions (Paper 2)
  • SECTION A (1 – 5) – This shall contain five (5) questions, out of which candidates shall be required to attempt any two (2) only.
  • SECTION B (6 – 10) – This shall contain sets of five (5) questions each and each candidate is to answer two (2) questions.
  • Duration – 2½ hours

SECTION A (1 – 5)

ELEMENTS OF GOVERNMENT

POLITICAL AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENTS IN WEST AFRICA AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Answer any two (2)

Question 1:

Highlight five features that democracy is the most popular system of government.

View Answers

Question 2:

Explain five factors that limit the powers of government.

View Answers

Question 3:

Outline five reasons for which the judiciary is kept independent of the control of the executive and legislature.

View Answers

Question 4:

Identify five factors that make public opinion an important aspect of the democratic process.

View Answers

Question 5:

Highlight five ways of effectively controlling the local government to live up to its mandate.

View Answers

SECTION B (6 – 10)

Answer any two (2)

Question 6:

(a) State three institutions in Yoruba Pre-colonial political system of administration.

(b) Explain four checks and balances that existed in Yoruba pre-colonial political system.

View Answers

Question 7:

Identify Five Weaknesses of the Independence Constitution of 1960.

View Answers

Question 8:

Explain five problems Nigeria encounters in her interaction with nations of the world.

View Answers

Question 9:

Highlight five (5) positive impacts of British and French colonial administration in West Africa.

View Answers

Question 10:

Identify five ways in which democracy was stalled any time the military took over the administration of Nigeria.

View Answers

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Question 1

Highlight five features that democracy is the most popular system of government.

Answers:

Features of democracy are enormous, among them are:

i. Majority Rule: Decisions of government are informed by the consensus of the majority though the rights of the minority are respected.

ii. Election and Replacement of Government: Government or political leaders are elected and replaced at intervals. Political leaders are not nominated but elected and replaced when their tenure expires.

iv. Free, Fair and Periodic Election: The government is elected periodically through elections that are devoid of rigging or any form of irregularity.

v. Fixed Tenure or Regulated Tenure of Office: The government’s stay in office is regulated. Their tenure is fixed. Once their tenure is exhausted, they are replaced.

vi. Respect for Rule of Law: The government and the people abide by the law. There is no room for arbitrariness of law.

vii. Existence of Universal Adult Suffrage: Qualified citizens participate in public decision-making. Citizens 18 years and above, who are banned by law or not insane or bankrupt can participate in politics.

viii. Popular Participation by Citizens in Government: Citizens can participate in public decision-making. They can vote, join political parties contest elections etc.

ix. Existence of a Constitution: There is the existence of a constitution and constitutional supremacy. The constitution gives final interpretation to constitutional issues.

x. Provision for Constitutional Amendment: There is always a procedure for amendment of the constitution.

xi. Existence of Multi-Party System: Political parties exist to contest for political power and fill the different political positions.

xii. Freedom of Assembly/Association: Citizens are at liberty to join political parties of their choice and hold political meetings.

xiii. Enjoyment of Fundamental Human Rights and Freedom: Citizens fundamental or basic rights are guaranteed e.g. freedom of association, right to vote and be voted for, etc.

xiv. Freedom of Speech, Expression and Choice: Citizens enjoy freedom of speech and expression. They are also at liberty to support and vote for candidates and parties of their choice.

xv. Existence of Free Press or Media Plurality: The mass media is free to transmit information and news to the general public without molestation.

xvi. Separation of power and checks and Balances: The arms or organs of government are distinct from one another in terms of functions and personnel. They check the excesses of one another.

xvii. Promotion of Accountability and Transparency in Government: The government is transparent. They are held accountable for their actions and inaction while in office.

xviii. Existence of Judiciary Independence: The judiciary is not influenced or controlled as it discharges its duties.

xix. Tolerance of Opposition Views and Opinions: The government tolerates positive views and criticisms of opposition.

xx. Existence of Institutions for the Protection of Human Rights: such as Ombudsman or Public Complaints Commission.

xxi. Protection of Minority Rights: Though decisions are reached through consensus opinion, the rights of the minority are protected.

Question 2

Explain five factors that limit the powers of government.

Answers:

The powers of government can be limited through the following:

i. Constitutional Limitations: The provisions of the constitution spell out the powers and limitations to the powers of government institutions which they must abide by.

ii. Rule of Law: Rule of law guides against arbitrariness of law by the government.

iii. Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances: Each organ of government must adhere to its functions. The organs check or control the excesses of one another to prevent abuse of power.

iv. International Conventions and Agreements: Government must respect international conventions and agreements to promote world peace.

vi. Customs and Traditions of the People: Government respects the customs and traditions of the people.

vii. Regulatory Enforcement Mechanism: Each government institution must submit itself to a regulatory enforcement mechanism.

viii. Consent of the Governed: Political sovereignty can limit the powers of the government. The governed can vote out a bad government.

ix. Independent Media: A vibrant media can limit the powers of government by exposing the excesses of the government thereby restricting the government from acting arbitrarily.

x. Public Opinion or Pressure from the Citizens: Public views on specific issues can influence government decisions and actions.

xi. Judicial Review: An independent judiciary can declare actions of the other organs of government unconstitutional if it finds it so. It can prohibit or restrain them from carrying out certain actions.

xii. Vibrant Opposition: Vibrant opposition parties can limit the powers of the government through their criticisms.

xiii. Party Discipline: The government adheres to the directives of the party caucus.

xiv. Fear of Next Election: Electoral control is another limiting factor to the powers of the government. They fear their party may be voted out if they perform poorly.

xv. Fear of Impeachment or Vote of No Confidence: The fear that the government can be impeached in the presidential system of government or a vote of no-confidence passed on the cabinet in the parliamentary system can be another form of limitation to its powers.

xvi. Vibrant Pressure Groups on Interest Groups: Pressure groups can mount pressure on government to change their decisions.

xvii. Vibrant Civil Societies or Organizations: Both national and international civil societies can influence government decisions.

xviii. A Vigilant and Effective Legislature: A legislature that is vigilant and effective can check excesses of the government.

xix. Influence of International Organizations and International laws: Government respects the resolutions and charters of international organizations they belong to. They also comply with international laws.

xx. Eminent Personalities: Eminent personalities in a state can influence or control the government such as former heads of state, and traditional rulers.

xxi. Ethnic, Tribal and Religious Considerations: In a heterogeneous state like Nigeria, with an inclination to different religions, government powers are limited by such considerations.

Question 3

Outline five reasons for which the judiciary is kept independent of the control of the executive and legislature.

Answers:

The following are reasons for which the judiciary is kept independent of the control of the executive and legislature:

  • To give Fair Judgments: If the judiciary is independent or free from the control of other arms of government, it can give fair judgment.
  • To Prevent Arbitrary Rule: Judiciary needs to be independent to prevent abuse of power.
  • Prevent Dictatorship: Judicial independence prevents dictatorship or autocracy. The executive will be prevented from being dictatorial.
  • Uphold the Democratic Principle of Accountability: This forces the organs of government to be accountable and responsible. Their actions are reviewed through judicial review.
  • Protection of Individual Rights and Group Rights: Groups and individuals whose rights are violated can challenge such violations in court and receive justice.
  • Fair and Just Constitutional Interpretation: The judiciary will interpret the Constitution justly.
  • For maintenance of the rule of Law: Judicial independence will ensure that the rule of law is upheld by the government.
  • To Ensure Public Confidence in Government and the Judiciary: To restore the confidence of the people in the state in the government and judiciary. People will have hope that when there is a need and they go to the judiciary, they can get justice.
  • To Ensure that Public Interest Prevails against Selfish Interest of Individuals or Groups.
  • Another reason is to insulate the judiciary from partisan politics.
  • It will enable judges to perform their duties without fear or favour.
  • It prevents arbitrary disqualification of candidates and parties from contesting elections.
  • It ensures free and fair elections as cases of irregularities during elections can be treated justly.
  • Judicial independence enhances checks and balances in a constitutional government.
  • It will ensure judicial professional integrity.

Question 4

Identify five factors that make public opinion an important aspect of the democratic process.

Answers:

Public opinion is an important aspect of the democratic process due to these reasons:

i. It gives direction to government decisions and actions.

ii. It influences the formulation and implementation of public policy.

iii. It allows for citizens’ participation in public decision-making.

iv. It is a means for effective control of government.

v. It assists in the promotion of the rights and freedoms of the citizens in a state.

vi. It allows for freedom of expression

vii. It ensures accountability and transparency in government. It forces the government to make its actions, policies, expenditures, etc., public.

viii. It gives feedback to government in power. Through public opinion, the government can assess its performance.

ix. It serves as a guide to political parties in drawing their manifesto, their plans and programmes.

x. The government uses it to secure support for its policies and programmes.

xi. It is a major source of data for law-making.

xii. It tests the popularity of the government in power. The party in power can test their popularity.

xiii. It serves as an agent of social change.

xiv. It provides valuable information on candidates contesting elections.

xv. It helps to change previously held positions and attitudes of government and government institutions.

xvi. It is used to plan political strategies and campaigns.

xvii. It guides the undecided during election.

xviii. It provides valuable information on the political behaviour of the people.

Question 5

Highlight five ways of effectively controlling the local government to live up to its mandate.

Answers:

Ways Local Government is Effectively Controlled to Live up to its Mandate are:

i. Setting Standards: The state and central government must set standards for local government which they must live up to.

ii. Effective Coordination, Supervision and Monitoring: An oversight committee set up by the state government must coordinate, supervise and monitor local government projects.

iii. Citizens Need to Participate in Local Governance to know what the local government is up to.

iv. Local Governments Need to be Sanctioned for Poor Performance.

v. The need for an accountability mechanism must be in place. Local complaint unit needs to be established to take complaints of people of that local government.

vi. Legislative Control: Local governments are set up by Acts of Parliament and therefore have the power to regulate their activities, including dissolution.

v. Periodic Audit: Account of local government need to be audited annually and regularly.

vi. Public Opinion can Control Local Governments through their criticisms.

vii. Judicial Control: Judiciary can through judicial review check the powers of local government.

viii. Executive and Administrative Control: The minister can give guidelines to local government. There is also administrative control.

ix. The Executive can Withhold or Reduce Grants from Local Governments.

x. State and Central Governments can give directives to local governments to perform specific assignments.

xi. The state and central government can dismiss local government officials

xii. Procurement process of local government can also be scrutinized to see if due processes were observed and if they were wasteful.

xiv. Local government laws/acts can be amended.

xv. The press controls local government by exposing its wrongful acts or unsatisfactory actions.

xvi. Pressure groups or interest groups can also control local government.

xvii. Ombudsman or Public Complaints Commission also can control local government officials.

xviii. Public control: The general public can criticize local government.

xix. Effective Debate in the Legislature on the needs and projects of local government can also control the local government.

Question 6

(a) State three institutions in Yoruba Pre-colonial political system of administration.

Answers:

The institutions in Yoruba pre-colonial period include:

  • The Royalty (Alaafin)
  • The Kingmakers (Oyomesi)
  • Cult (Ogboni)
  • The Osi Efa
  • The Oni Efa
  • The Otun Efa
  • Army (Are Onakakanfo)

 

(b) Explain four checks and balances that existed in Yoruba pre-colonial political system.

Answers:

The checks and balances that existed in Yoruba pre-colonial political system include:

i. The traditional three arms of government; Oba, Oyomesi, Ogboni checked one another.

ii. Oath of office: the traditional ruler, Oyomesi, Ogboni take oath of office or allegiance this guarantees loyalty among the chiefs.

iii. Taboo and Abomination: Taboos and abomination helped to stop or curb some unethical practices among the chiefs.

iv. Impeachment or Dethronement: The chiefs can be dethroned or removed. They can be threatened or actually removed from office.

v. Banishment or Exile: Chiefs could be banished from their communities.

vi. Suicide: Erring chiefs and Obas could be forced to commit suicide by presenting to him an empty calabash.

vii. Presentation of an Occult Calabash (Igba-Iwa): The Oba or chiefs could be presented with an occult Calabash.

viii. Boycotts: The chiefs or Oyomesi may refuse to attend palace, meetings, activities and assignments.

ix. The Oracle (Ifa): The oracle may issue predictions and advise on precautionary measures.

x. Revolts: The people might be rebellious or demonstrate against autocratic Oba.

Question 7

Identify Five Weaknesses of the Independence of 1960.

Answers:

Among the weaknesses of the Independence Constitution of 1960 include:

i. Vestige of Colonialism: There was still an element of colonialism in the 1960 constitution as the Queen of England still remained the constitutional Head of State.

ii. The Judicial Committee: The Privy Judicial Committee of the British House of Lords in London was still the highest Court of Appeal.

iii. The Constitution was not Supreme:  The Constitution failed to state that its provisions were supreme.

iv. Prime Minister Accountable to the Legislature: Under the 1960 constitution, the Prime Minister was accountable to the Legislature and not the people (Parliamentary system of government).

v. Constitution Encouraged Carpet-Crossing: The Constitution encouraged carpet-crossing and this affected party loyalty in the legislature.

vi. Not entirely Nigerian-made Constitution: The process of making the 1960 constitution was not entirely undertaken by Nigerians.

vii. Excess Power allotted to the Legislature: The constitution granted excessive powers on the legislature leading to arbitrariness of law by the legislature.

viii. The constitution did spell out the formula for appointments into public offices: If the appointments would be based on Federal character or quota system.

ix. Nutty-Political Issues were not Addressed: The constitution failed to address important issues such as minority rights, political integration etc.

x. It failed to specify the number of Ministers to be appointed.

xi. It failed to provide for the Director of Public Prosecution.

Question 8

Explain five problems Nigeria encounters in her interaction with nations of the world.

Answers:

As Nigeria interacts with other nations, she may encounter the following problems:

i. Difficulty in identifying clearly her national interest: Nigeria finds it difficult to identify clearly her domestic interests.

ii. Regional Insecurity: Insecurity in the Sahara region has infiltrated into northern Nigeria.

iii. Global Insecurity: Global insecurity such as terrorism insurgency has reared its ugly head in Nigeria.

iv. Ideological Differences: She has to relate to countries with different ideologies.

v. Smuggling Across Nigeria’s Borders: Nigeria is contending with smuggling of banned goods across all her borders by land, sea and air.

vi. Influx of Refugees from Other Countries: There is an influx of refugees into Nigeria from her neighbouring countries. This impacts Nigeria’s economy negatively as she cannot plan her economy effectively.

vii. Increase in Crime Rates Perpetuated by Some Foreign Nationals. With the influx of foreign nationals, came an increase in crime rates. Some of them may be criminals while some were forced into committing crimes.

viii. Loss of Citizens: Some Nigerian military personnel who went for peace-keeping operations lost their lives.

ix. Problem of Inequality of State: Some developed countries do not relate to developing countries on equals.

x. Unclear border demarcations, with her Neighbours on all sides, is still a major issue.

xi. Brain Drain: Nigerian professionals and ordinary citizens are all seeking greener pastures abroad.

xii. Contending with Francophone and Anglophone Rivalries: Colonial experience divided African Countries most especially West African Countries into two parallel lines. There is rivalry/division among them.

xiii. Difficult in Accessing Foreign Market: Nigerians find it difficult to access foreign markets to sell their goods and services.

xiv. Poor Economic Standing: The level of economic development of Nigeria is still poor.

xv. Trade Imbalance: The unfair global trade that has been in existence since the colonial period has weakened the currency of developing countries.

xvi. Difficulty in Accessing Foreign Loans: Nigerians are still finding it difficult to access foreign loans because of fear of inability to pay back.

xvii. Hostilities of Some Countries Towards Nigeria Citizens. Nigerian citizens have been subjected to unjust, unfair treatment in different parts of the world e.g. xenophobia in South Africa. Embarrassing immigration checks at entry points of different countries.

xviii. The type of government in power especially autocratic leaders or military government is also a problem.

xix. Illicit Drug Trade across borders; drug peddling is still a problem.

xx. Cross-Border Human Trafficking and Organ-harvesting are on the increase today.

xxi. Nigeria has been turned into a dumping ground for inferior or poorly produced goods from developed countries.

xxii. Some Super Powers Unduly Interfere in the political and economic affairs of Nigeria.

xxiii. Preservation of Western values and culture instead of Nigeria’s values and culture still exists.

xxiv. Lack of political leaders’ commitment to the promotion of Nigeria’s national interest. The leaders are not sincere in the promotion of national interest.

xxv. Exploitation from Foreign Direct Investment: Some Nigerian traders who try to directly buy or book things abroad end up being swindled or saddled with inferior goods.

Question 9

Highlight five (5) positive impacts of British and French colonial administration in West Africa.

Answers:

Some of the positive impacts or consequences of British and French colonial administration in West Africa include:

i. Introduction of Western Education: Colonialism introduced Western Education in schools were built. West Africa with emphasis on the “3 Rs” Reacting, Writing and Arithmetic.

ii. Creation of Large Political Units: Colonialism partitioned previous empires, emirates and ethnic groups into modern larger states.

iii. Establishment of the Civil Service: Civil service was established in West Africa during the colonial era.

iv. Political Development: Introduction of elective principles in the constitutions of these territories resulted in the formation of political parties and political activities.

v. Improvement of Health Care System: Modern health care system came with colonialism: hospitals, clinics, maternity homes, and modern drugs.

vi. Development of Infrastructure: Infrastructure such as schools, roads, and rails, were built.

vii. Development of Agriculture and Encouragement of Food Security. Colonialism introduced new crops and fruits in West Africa e.g. rice, cassava, mangoes, etc. and growing them in large quantities.

vii. It Improved the Legal System, especially the common legal system based on the British Legal System.

ix. Development of the Press especially the Print Media: African Controlled Newspapers were established to disseminate information to the people and an avenue to expose wrongful actions of colonial rulers.

x. Introduction of Money Economy: The money economy was introduced in Africa as a means of exchange in place of cowries.

xi. Helped to Stop some Inhuman Practices: Colonialism helped to stop some evil practices such as the killing of twins, human sacrifices, etc.

xii. Development of Nationalism: Nationalism sprang up with the advent of colonialism.

xiii. Improvement of Literacy: Education helped to improve literacy among the people through the establishment of educational institutions.

xiv. Establishment of Foreign Trade: Trade relations were established between the people of West Africa and their colonial masters.

xv. Establishment of a Common Central Bank for West Africa was first set up during the colonial period.

xvi. Introduction of Christian Religion: Europeans came to Africa to trade, evangelize and rule the people of West Africa.

xvii. Reduction of Poverty: Through Trade, employment in the civil service, railway and improved crops, poverty was reduced to some extent.

xviii. Enhanced Defensive Network.

Question 10

Identify five ways in which democracy was stalled any time the military took over the administration of Nigeria.

Answers:

Ways Democracy was Stalled anytime the Military Took over the Administration of Nigeria were:

i. Suspension of Constitution: Military government suspended the constitution when they toppled a democratic government.

ii Rule by Decrees and Edicts: Military governments ruled through decrees and edicts they promulgate.

iii. No Regard for Rule of Law: Military government suspended the constitution. They did not do things according to the law. They also violated fundamental human rights.

iv. Infringed on Fundamental Human Rights: It abused the rights and freedom of people in the state.

v. Disrespected the Judiciary and Dispensed Justice Through Military Tribunals it set up. It set up “Kangaroo Courts” to administer justice.

vi. No Fair Trial: Citizens did not receive fair trials as some military tribunals that settle cases failed to observe due process. They were not trained to administer justice.

vii. Suspension of Democratic Institutions: They suspended, and on some occassions dissolved democratic institutions such as the executive, legislative, electoral commission, etc.

viii. Citizens Lived in Fear.

ix. Hanging on to Power: Military government had the tendency to hang on to power. They always overstay in power.

x. Lack of Accountability and Transparency: They operated in secrecy. They did not like to be controlled or checked.

xi. Banning of all Forms of Political Party Activities: They disbanded political parties, rallies, meetings, etc.

xii. There might be the existence of Coup d’état and counter-coup d’état as another ambitious military officer might want to topple the current military government in power.

xiii. Intolerance of any Form of Opposition: Military government did not tolerate any dissenting voice or criticism.

xiv. Poor Economic Development: It was unable to revamp the economy.

xv. Redirection of the Foreign Policy: Democratic states might refuse to cooperate with the military government forcing the state to redirect her foreign policy.

xvi. Electoral Commission Suspended: Military government might dissolve or suspend the electoral body that conducted the election.

xvii. Restriction on Freedom of Movement or Curfew: They always imposed a curfew for some time immediately after taking over power.

xviii. Placement of Elected Government Officials and Appointed Officials under house arrest.

xix. Replacement of Popularly Elected Officials: Military governed appointed military officers and civilians into political positions.

xx. Loss of Lives: As they come to power through a coup, some people may lose their lives. Furthermore, their high hardness might make more people lose their lives.

xxi. Political Opponents and People who Criticized them might be detained too. A culture of silence was instituted.

xxii. Curtailment of Press Freedom: Activities of the press were censored.

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