(a) Explain any three pillars of democracy from the list below: (i) independent judiciary (ii) the military (iii) political parties (iv) civil society organ...

(a) Explanation of three pillars of democracy

1. Independent judiciary: This is the arm of government that interprets the law and settles disputes. An independent judiciary that is free from executive or political control protects citizens' rights, upholds the rule of law and checks the excesses of government.
2. Political parties: These are organised groups of people who share common political ideas and contest elections to form government. They provide candidates, offer citizens choices, educate voters and serve as a link between the people and the government.
3. Free and independent press: This refers to the media (newspapers, radio, television and online platforms) that report freely without government control. The press informs and educates the public, exposes corruption and holds leaders accountable, acting as a watchdog of democracy.

(b) Three reasons why competition for political power among politicians is fierce in Nigeria

1. Access to public wealth: Political office gives access to public funds and privileges, making it very attractive and worth fighting for.
2. Lack of alternative means of livelihood: Politics is seen by many as the fastest means of becoming rich, so they struggle desperately for power.
3. Ethnic and religious interests: Politicians compete fiercely to secure power for their ethnic or religious groups, intensifying the struggle.