(a) Define representative democracy. (b) State three reasons Nigeria adopts representative democracy. (c) List three factors that retard the growth of democ...

Answer Details

(a) Definition of representative democracy

Representative democracy is a system of government in which the people elect representatives through free and fair elections to make laws and govern on their behalf, rather than the people governing directly themselves.

(b) Three reasons Nigeria adopts representative democracy

1. Large population: Nigeria's population is too large for all citizens to gather and make decisions directly.
2. Large size/territory: The wide geographical spread of the country makes direct participation by all impossible.
3. Complexity of governance: Modern government involves complex and technical issues that are best handled by elected and knowledgeable representatives.

(c) Three factors that retard the growth of democracy in Nigeria

1. Electoral malpractices such as rigging, vote buying and violence.
2. Corruption and bad governance by political leaders.
3. Ethnic, religious and political intolerance, and political apathy among citizens.