WAEC GCE GOVERNMENT QUESTION AND ANSWERS 2023 SECOND SERIES

*WAEC GCE GOVERNMENT*

*NUMBER ONE*

(1)
(PICK FIVE ONLY)

(i) Representation: A multi-party system ensures that various social, economic, and cultural groups have the opportunity to be represented in government. It allows for a broader range of perspectives and interests to be heard and considered, enhancing inclusivity.

(ii) Accountability: Multiple parties provide a system of checks and balances, as different parties can hold each other accountable. Opposition parties play a crucial role in questioning and scrutinizing the ruling party’s policies and actions, promoting transparency, and reducing the risk of corruption.

(iii) Policy development: With multiple parties, there is a greater diversity of policy proposals and ideas. This diversity encourages constructive debates and discussions, leading to the development of more comprehensive and well-thought-out policies that address a broader range of societal needs.

(iv) Competition: The presence of multiple parties fosters healthy competition among politicians. In order to win elections, parties must appeal to a wider range of voters, which can incentivize them to focus on the needs and concerns of the people. Competition encourages parties to constantly improve their policies and performance.

(v) Flexibility: A multi-party system allows for more flexibility in responding to changing societal needs. As different parties hold diverse views on various issues, governments can adapt to new challenges, societal changes, and emerging priorities more effectively.

(vi) Participation and engagement: With a larger number of parties, citizens are more likely to find a party that aligns with their values and beliefs, leading to increased political engagement. This engagement fosters a vibrant political culture and encourages citizens to actively participate in democratic processes, such as voting and joining political parties.

(vii) Coalition Governments: In multi-party systems, coalitions are often necessary to form a government. Coalition governments require parties to negotiate and build consensus on policies, fostering cooperation and compromise. This collaborative approach can result in more stable and inclusive governance.

(viii) Minority Representation: Increasing the number of parties can lead to better representation of minorities and marginalized communities. Smaller parties advocating for specific issues or representing specific communities can gain a voice and influence in the political arena, promoting equality and inclusivity.

(ix) Evolution of Ideas: Multiple parties can contribute to the evolution of political ideologies and public policies. By presenting different ideological perspectives, parties can challenge conventional views, stimulate debate, and drive the development of innovative solutions to societal challenges.

(x) Balanced Power Distribution: In a multi-party system, power is distributed among multiple parties, reducing the risk of concentration and abuse of power. This distribution ensures that decisions are made collectively and in the best interest of the broader public, preventing the dominance of a single party or individual.

(2)

(i) Division of Powers: It establishes a system of checks and balances by distributing powers among different branches of government. This helps prevent the concentration of authority and ensures a balance of power, thereby preventing potential abuse.

 

(ii) Protection of Rights: Constitutions typically include a bill of rights that safeguards the fundamental rights and liberties of individuals. These rights, such as freedom of speech, assembly, and religion, act as a shield against potential government overreach, ensuring citizens’ civil liberties are protected.

 

(iii) Rule of Law: A constitution lays out the fundamental laws and principles governing the state. It provides a legal framework that all citizens and authorities must adhere to, ensuring consistency and predictability in the legal system. This adherence to the rule of law promotes stability and fairness within the society.

 

(iv) Mechanism for Governance: Constitutions establish the structure of government, define the powers of each branch, and outline the procedures for decision-making and policy implementation. This framework guides the functioning of the government, maintaining order and coherence in governance.

 

(v) Adaptability through Amendment: A constitution often includes provisions for amendments or revisions. This flexibility allows the document to adapt to changing societal needs, technological advancements, or shifts in public opinion, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness over time.

(7)
(CHOOSE ANY FIVE)
(i) Diversion of Resources: Political conflicts in Nigeria often lead to the diversion of essential resources away from development projects. Funds that could be allocated for infrastructure, education, and healthcare may be redirected to address immediate political concerns or security issues.

(ii) Instability and Uncertainty: Political conflicts create an atmosphere of instability and uncertainty, deterring foreign investments and hindering economic growth. Investors are hesitant to commit resources in an environment characterized by political unrest and unpredictability.

(iii) Impaired Governance: Ongoing political conflicts can result in weakened governance structures. Decision-making processes may be hindered, and the ability to implement and enforce policies for sustainable development may be compromised.

(iv) Social Disruption: Political conflicts often spill over into social unrest, disrupting communities and hindering social development. Displacement of populations, breakdown of social services, and increased crime rates are common consequences, impeding overall societal progress.

(v) Corruption: Political conflicts can exacerbate Corruption as individuals may exploit the chaotic environment for personal gain. Corruption diverts public resources away from developmental initiatives and undermines the effectiveness of public institutions.

(vi) Ethnic and Religious Tensions: Nigeria’s diverse population can experience heightened tensions during political conflicts, leading to ethnic or religious divisions. Such divisions hinder social cohesion and can divert attention and resources away from collaborative national development efforts.

(vii) Infrastructure Decay: Political conflicts may result in neglect and deterioration of infrastructure. Maintenance and development projects are often put on hold, leading to crumbling roads, inadequate power supply, and a lack of basic amenities that are crucial for overall development.

(viii) Brain Drain: Persistent political conflicts may drive skilled professionals and intellectuals out of the country in search of more stable environments. This brain drain deprives Nigeria of the expertise needed for sustainable development.

(ix) Educational Disruptions: Political conflicts can disrupt educational systems, affecting the quality and accessibility of education. Disruptions in schooling impede the development of a skilled workforce necessary for economic and social progress.

(x) Humanitarian Crises: Intensified political conflicts can lead to humanitarian crises, with displaced populations requiring urgent assistance. Humanitarian efforts divert resources from developmental projects, prolonging the cycle of underdevelopment.

(10)
(i) Economic Advancement: Embracing interdependence among states allows Nigeria to tap into a broader array of resources, markets, and investment opportunities, catalyzing economic growth through diversified trade and investment avenues.

(ii) Political Harmony and Security: Commitment to interdependence fosters regional stability by nurturing mutual diplomatic relations and cooperative security arrangements, consequently reducing the likelihood of conflicts and bolstering collective security efforts.

(iii) Cultural and Intellectual Exchange: Embracing interdependence facilitates cultural exchange and intellectual dialogue, enriching Nigeria’s social fabric with diverse perspectives, fostering social tolerance, and nurturing an environment conducive to innovation and creativity.

(iv) Technological Progress: Collaborative efforts with other states enable Nigeria to access new technologies and knowledge, fostering innovation and advancements across various sectors, thus accelerating national development.

(v) Enhanced Global Standing: Strengthening interdependence elevates Nigeria’s global positioning, providing the nation with increased influence in international affairs, bolstered diplomatic relations, and amplified participation in global decision-making forums, reinforcing its role as a significant actor on the global stage.

(5)

(i) Voting and Holding Leaders Accountable: Vote in elections and make sure leaders do what they promise.

(ii) Supporting Education: Help with schools and learning so everyone can get smarter and have better jobs.

(iii) Starting Businesses and New Ideas: Make new businesses and cool stuff that helps make more jobs and money.

(iv) Helping in the Community: Spend time helping out in your neighborhood for better streets and happier people.

(v) Being Fair and United: Speak up for fairness and make sure everyone gets along, no matter where they’re from or what they believe in.

Number 9

1. Balancing power: Federalism allows for the distribution of power between the central government and the states, effectively preventing power concentration in one entity. This helps to prevent a domination of power by one region or group, ensuring the fair representation of diverse interests in Nigeria.

2. Unity in diversity: Nigeria is a country with diverse ethnic, cultural, and religious groups. Federalism accommodates these diversities by allowing each state to have some degree of autonomy and self-governance. This promotes a sense of unity and encourages participation from all regions, helping to sustain Nigeria as a single sovereign state despite its diversity.

3. Regional development: Federalism allows each state to have control over its resources and policymaking, enabling them to prioritize and address the specific needs of their region. This can lead to more balanced development across the country, as each state can focus on its specific challenges and opportunities.

4. Conflict resolution: Nigeria has a history of ethnic and religious tensions. Federalism provides an avenue for peaceful conflict resolution by allowing states to negotiate and resolve issues within their jurisdiction. It provides a platform for dialogue and compromises, avoiding the escalation of conflicts that could threaten the unity and sovereignty of Nigeria.

5. Participatory governance: Federalism allows for decentralized decision-making, bringing government closer to the people. It promotes inclusivity, as citizens have the opportunity to participate in decision-making processes at the state level, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and involvement in the governance of Nigeria. This strengthens the democratic fabric of the country and contributes to its sustainability as a sovereign state.