Define Republican form of government and state its essential characteristics.

Definition. A republican form of government is one in which the head of state is not a hereditary monarch but an elected president who holds office for a fixed term. Supreme power resides in the people, who exercise it through their elected representatives, and public offices are filled by election or appointment rather than by birth. Nigeria became a republic in 1963.

Essential characteristics.

1. Elected head of state: The head of state is a president chosen directly or indirectly by the people, not a king or queen who inherits the throne.
2. Fixed tenure of office: The head of state and other elected officials hold office for a definite term, after which fresh elections are held.
3. Sovereignty of the people: Ultimate political authority belongs to the people, who confer power on their leaders through periodic elections.
4. Absence of hereditary rulership: Public offices are not inherited; leadership is based on election and merit rather than on royal descent.
5. Supremacy of the constitution and rule of law: Government is conducted according to a written constitution which is the supreme law, and all persons, including leaders, are subject to the law.
6. Accountability of leaders: Elected officials are answerable to the people and can be removed through elections or constitutional processes such as impeachment.