JAMB UTME - Government - 2024

Maelezo ya Majibu

The local government reform in Nigeria that prevented traditional rulers from engaging in politics was the 1976 Reform.

Here's a simple explanation:

Prior to the 1976 reform, traditional rulers had significant influence and played active roles in both political and administrative affairs within their regions. This often created conflicts of interest and challenges in governance, as their roles were not clearly defined within the modern state structure.

The 1976 Local Government Reform was a significant restructuring of local governance. This reform aimed to establish a more uniform and systematic local government system throughout Nigeria. A vital aspect of this reform was to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of traditional rulers in order to separate traditional authority from political governance.

The reform stipulated that traditional rulers should no longer have executive or administrative roles in the formal local government system. This meant that they could not hold political office or engage in political activities, allowing for a clearer distinction between traditional roles and political governance.

Overall, the reform sought to create a more democratic and efficient local government structure by reducing political interference from traditional rulers, while still allowing them to preserve their cultural and traditional roles within their communities.

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Shehu Shagari won the 1979 Presidential Election under the political party known as the National Party of Nigeria (NPN). This was a significant event in Nigerian history as it marked the transition from military rule to a civilian government. The NPN was known for its appeal across various regions of Nigeria and promoted a message of national unity. It was a dominant political force during the Second Republic of Nigeria, which began in 1979 after the military handed over power to the civilian government. The election of Shehu Shagari as President reflected the support and influence the NPN had at that time.

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Strike action is mostly used by pressure groups.

Pressure groups are organizations formed to influence public policy and decision-making. These groups often bring attention to social, economic, or political issues by advocating for changes through various forms of protest, including strike actions. Their key purpose is to create awareness and apply pressure on decision-makers, such as governments or corporations, to address their concerns.

For example, labor unions, which are a type of pressure group, commonly employ strikes as a means to demand better wages, improved working conditions, or labor rights from employers. By organizing a strike, these groups can effectively draw public attention to their cause, disrupt normal operations, and compel the concerned parties to negotiate or take action.

In contrast, political parties focus primarily on winning elections, traders are usually individual business people whose primary interest is commerce, and parliamentarians are lawmakers engaged in legislative duties. While these groups might support or oppose strike actions, they typically do not organize them. Therefore, the organizing and execution of strikes are most closely associated with pressure groups.

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The right to vote and be voted for is commonly referred to as a franchise or electoral right. This right is a vital aspect of a democratic society, allowing citizens to participate in choosing their government representatives and leaders. It ensures that the government reflects the will of the people. By voting, individuals express their preferences and influence the decision-making process within their country.

The terms franchise and electoral right can be used interchangeably in this context; however, the term "franchise" traditionally emphasizes the right to vote specifically, while "electoral right" may encompass broader participation in the electoral process, including being a candidate in elections.

While it is a form of freedom of expression, because through voting you express your choices, and it can be considered a fundamental human right in democratic societies, the specific term that directly identifies the right to vote and be elected is franchise.

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In the Yoruba pre-colonial political system, the **Oyo Mesi** was a powerful council of chiefs that had significant influence over the governance of the Oyo Empire. The leader of the Oyo Mesi was known as the **Bashorun**. The Bashorun held a position of great authority and was the most senior member of the Oyo Mesi. This individual was responsible for advising the king, known as the Alaafin of Oyo, and played a crucial role in the checks and balances within the political structure.

The Oyo Mesi, including the Bashorun, acted as a form of counterbalance to the monarchial power of the Alaafin, ensuring that the king did not rule as an autocrat. In times when the king lost the confidence of the Oyo Mesi, it was the Bashorun's responsibility to perform specific rituals that could potentially lead to the deposition of the king. Therefore, the role of the Bashorun as the leader of the Oyo Mesi was vital to maintaining the political stability and governance of the empire.

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The major objective of **price stability in the international oil market** is primarily associated with the **Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)**.

OPEC is an organization consisting of oil-producing countries, and its primary aim is to **coordinate and unify the petroleum policies** of its member countries. This coordination ensures that the oil market is stable, prices are reasonable, and there is a consistent supply of oil to consumers.

OPEC achieves this by determining the **production levels** of its member countries. By doing so, it can either increase or decrease oil production to influence oil prices. For instance, if there is too much oil in the market, leading to falling prices, OPEC may choose to lower production to stabilize or increase prices.

This function is not a direct objective of organizations such as the **United Nations (UN)**, which focuses on maintaining international peace and security, or the **World Trade Organization (WTO)**, which addresses trade rules between countries. Similarly, the **African Union (AU)** concentrates on regional integration and development within Africa.

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One of the internal factors that contributed significantly to the rise and growth of nationalism in Nigeria was the return of ex-service men after World War II. These men had served alongside soldiers from other nations, gaining exposure to international ideas and practices. Here is a simple explanation:

• During World War II, many Nigerians served in the British military forces. This gave them the opportunity to travel overseas, interact with people from different countries, and witness a broader perspective on governance and rights.
• Upon returning home, these ex-servicemen were often faced with a lack of opportunities and poor economic conditions, despite their sacrifices during the war.
• This dissatisfaction led them to become more vocal and proactive in demanding better rights, conditions, and ultimately, self-governance for Nigerians. They played a crucial role in political mobilization and organization.
• Their experiences and discontent became a shared sentiment among many educated Nigerians, paving the way for a united nationalist movement aimed at ending colonial rule.

In summary, the return of ex-service men was a catalyst in fostering a stronger sense of national identity and solidarity among Nigerians, fueling the desire for independence and self-governance.

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Dual citizenship was a feature of the French colonial system.

In the French colonial system, the concept of dual citizenship existed under the idea called "assimilation." This meant that individuals living in French colonies, if they adopted French culture, language, and law, could gain some rights similar to those of French citizens. However, this was not automatic and usually applied to a select group within the colonies.

The French had two main groups in their colonies: "citoyens," who were considered full French citizens and had extensive rights, and "sujets," who were subjects of the French Empire with fewer rights. Through the process of assimilation, a subject could become a citizen, thus obtaining French citizenship while retaining their original identity, thereby leading to the idea of dual citizenship.

This approach was somewhat unique to the French system compared to other colonial systems where such a concept did not prominently exist.

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The fundamental objective guiding a nation's foreign policy is primarily its own national interest. Understanding a nation’s foreign policy involves comprehending the actions and decisions made by a country in its relations with other countries. Let's break this down in a simple way:

National Interest: This refers to the goals or ambitions of a nation. Each nation prioritizes its own security, economic well-being, and cultural values above all else. The foreign policy is crafted to promote the stability, prosperity, and welfare of its citizens. For instance, they might form alliances for security, engage in trade deals to boost their economy, or participate in international agreements that benefit their environment or public health.

Other interests like foreign interest, African interest, or colonial interest, while they may play a role in particular contexts or historical periods, are secondary concerns. Foreign interest might involve strategic diplomacy with other nations for mutual benefits, African interest may relate to regional partnerships or alliances within the continent for advanced cooperation, and colonial interest might pertain to historical ties or responsibilities resulting from a colonial past.

In conclusion, while a nation may consider external factors, the driving force of its foreign policy remains the national interest, which is principally focused on ensuring the best outcomes for its own country and people.

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a regional political and economic union of countries located in West Africa. This organization was established to foster economic integration and collective self-sufficiency among its member states.

The ECOWAS Secretariat is essentially the administrative headquarters of the organization, where its day-to-day operations are managed, and where meetings and decision-making processes often occur. The location of this Secretariat plays a crucial role in facilitating communication and coordination among member states.

The ECOWAS Secretariat is located in Abuja, Nigeria. Abuja is the capital city of Nigeria, and it serves as an important political center in West Africa. Having the Secretariat in Abuja positions ECOWAS strategically in the region, considering Nigeria's significant influence and central location in West Africa. This choice also reflects the goal of the organization to ensure close coordination and collaboration among its member states.

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The **Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)** was established on 28 May 1975. This establishment happened when a treaty was signed in Lagos, Nigeria, by the Heads of State and Government of 15 West African countries. The primary goal of ECOWAS is to promote economic integration and cooperation among its member states, which includes the free movement of goods, capital, and people, as well as the harmonization of policies and development of a unified economic space in the West African region.

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To answer the question about which constitution first introduced a presidential system, it is important to understand that a presidential system is a form of government where the president is the head of state as well as the head of government, and there is a distinct separation between the executive and legislative branches.

The constitution that introduced the presidential system for the first time in Nigeria was the 1979 Constitution. This constitution marked a significant departure from the previously used parliamentary system, adopting a system more similar to that of the United States. In the 1979 Constitution of Nigeria, the president was given executive powers, separating this role from the legislature, which was a distinct shift in governance structure. This move aimed to enhance checks and balances, and prevent the concentration of power in a single branch of government.

In conclusion, the 1979 Constitution was pivotal in introducing the presidential system to Nigeria.

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ECOWAS, which stands for the Economic Community of West African States, is a regional group established to promote economic integration in all fields of economic activity among the West African countries. The organization has several principal organs through which it implements its functions and responsibilities. Here’s a breakdown to clarify which one does not belong:

1. Council of Ministers: This is an organ of ECOWAS, comprising ministers from the member states. It is responsible for taking decisions on matters under the direction of the Heads of State and Government, and for implementing policies.

2. Secretariat: Initially, ECOWAS had a Secretariat, but it has been transformed into the ECOWAS Commission. This change emphasizes greater efficiency and the improvement of ECOWAS's functions. The Commission serves as the executive arm, implementing policies, fostering economic integration, and driving development programs.

3. Conference: There is no organ named “Conference” in ECOWAS. The highest decision-making body within ECOWAS is the Conference of Heads of State and Government. This body sets major priorities and policies, providing direction for the organization.

4. Community Tribunal: ECOWAS has a Community Court of Justice, commonly referred to as the ECOWAS Court of Justice. It ensures the observance of law and justice in the interpretation and application of ECOWAS Treaty provisions.

Based on the information provided, "Conference" is not formally referred to as an organ. Instead, it might refer to the gathering of the Heads of State and Government, which is formally organized but not labeled as an organ.

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The **Commonwealth of Nations**, often simply known as the **Commonwealth**, is a political association of 56 member states, most of which are former territories of the British Empire. It is indeed essential to recognize its main organs.

The **Commonwealth Secretariat** is a principal **organ**. It is responsible for the administrative work of the Commonwealth, serving member governments, and acting as a central agency of cooperation for policy development and consensus-building among countries.

The **Assembly of Heads of State and Government** does not exist within the Commonwealth framework as an independent organ. Instead, these leaders meet at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), which is a summit for current government leaders to discuss pertinent global and Commonwealth issues.

The **Conference of Prime Ministers** is not a permanent organ of the Commonwealth, but it refers historically to meetings of the heads of government, which is similar to CHOGM today.

The **Fund for Technical Cooperation** is an integral financial resource managed by the Commonwealth Secretariat, not an organ in itself. It supports member countries in achieving economic development through technical assistance.

In conclusion, the **Assembly of Heads of State and Government**, as stated, is not an independent **organ** of the Commonwealth of Nations.

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The responsibility for the recruitment and promotion of civil servants in Nigeria falls under the **Civil Service Commission**. This Commission is an essential governmental body specifically tasked with overseeing and managing the employment lifecycle of civil servants within the public sector. This includes their **recruitment**, **promotion**, **disciplinary actions**, and **retirement**.

The **Civil Service Commission** is designed to ensure that there is a **fair and transparent** process in the management of civil servants, which is crucial for upholding the principles of **meritocracy** and **efficiency** in public service. They are responsible for setting **guidelines**, conducting **interviews**, administering **exams**, and executing **promotional reviews** to ensure that the principles of a **professional and accountable civil service** are maintained.

In summary, while there are other commissions for specific sectors such as the **Federal Character Commission**, **National Universities Commission**, and the **Federal Judicial Commission**, it is the **Civil Service Commission** that is primarily concerned with the affairs of civil servants in terms of recruitment and promotion. Their work plays a critical role in maintaining a **competent and equitable** public service system in Nigeria.

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The rule of law is an essential ingredient of democracy.

To understand why, let me explain the key concepts:

Rule of Law: It means that the laws of a country are applied equally and fairly to all its citizens. No one is above the law, not even leaders or government officials. It ensures justice, equality, and accountability within a society.

Democracy: It is a system of government where the power comes from the people. Citizens elect representatives to make decisions and create laws on their behalf. Democracy relies on principles such as freedom, equality, and transparency.

Now, let's see why the rule of law is crucial for democracy:

• Protection of Rights: In a democracy, the rule of law ensures that citizens' rights and freedoms are protected from abuse by the government or other individuals.
• Equality: Democracy is based on the principle that everyone is equal, and the rule of law enforces this by treating all individuals the same under the law.
• Limit on Power: The rule of law puts checks and balances on those in power, preventing them from making arbitrary decisions and ensuring they act according to the established laws.
• Accountability: In a democracy, leaders and government bodies are accountable to the people, and the rule of law is the mechanism that holds them accountable.

In summary, without the rule of law, a democracy cannot function effectively as it ensures that everyone is treated fairly, rights are upheld, and government power is kept in check.

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The courts can declare any act made by some corporations illegal or unconstitutional. This is done when they are breaching the Act upon which they are set up. 

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The principle of civil service that guarantees the employment of public workers is permanence.

Permanence refers to the idea that civil servants have stable and long-term employment. Once they are appointed to a civil service position, they usually remain in that position or within the civil service system for most of their working life, provided they perform satisfactorily and comply with the rules and regulations of public service. This stability means they are not subject to frequent job changes, political transitions, or arbitrary dismissals.

The concept of permanence helps maintain a professional and efficient bureaucracy. Civil servants can focus on implementing policies and serving the public rather than worrying about job security. It also helps to ensure that the institution retains skilled and experienced personnel over time.

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Lawyers recruited into the civil service belong to the professional class.

The reason for this is quite straightforward. In any organization, whether in the civil service or elsewhere, the term "professional class" often refers to positions that require specialized knowledge and qualifications. Lawyers are individuals who have undergone extensive education and training in the field of law, resulting in a professional degree (such as a Juris Doctor) and often the passing of a bar examination to practice law.

Within the civil service, professions like medicine, accountancy, and law fall under the "professional class" because these roles depend on a specific set of skills and deep knowledge in a regulated field. Lawyers contribute their expertise in legal matters such as policy formulation, compliance, and legislative processes.

In contrast, the other classes you mentioned serve different roles within the civil service:

• The administrative class typically involves positions that deal with the management and administration of public policy and government operations.
• The executive class may refer to senior-level officials who are responsible for leading departments and making significant decisions.
• The clerical class usually consists of positions that involve routine office tasks, record-keeping, and support duties.

Given the requirement for specialized legal expertise, lawyers are most suitably classified under the professional class in the civil service.

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Under the Hausa/Fulani pre-colonial administration, the **commander of the army** was known as the Madawaki. The Hausa/Fulani societies in pre-colonial times had an organized political structure in which roles and titles were clearly defined. The Madawaki was charged with the responsibility of leading the army, planning military strategies, and ensuring the security and defense of the state.

In contrast, other titles like Waziri, Galadima, and Maaji were associated with different administrative or advisory roles. The Waziri acted as the chief adviser or prime minister to the ruler, the Galadima was responsible for the administration of a particular province or area, while the Maaji handled financial matters and the treasury. Each of these roles was crucial to the functioning of the state, but the primary responsibility for military leadership rested with the Madawaki.

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The famous Italian Fascist leader was Benito Mussolini.

Benito Mussolini was an influential figure in early 20th-century Europe and the founder of Italian Fascism. He was born on July 29, 1883, in Predappio, Italy, and became the Prime Minister of Italy in 1922. Mussolini’s governance was characterized by the establishment of a dictatorship, as he dismantled democratic institutions and promoted a totalitarian state. Under Fascism, Mussolini sought to create a centralized autocratic government, where the nation-state and its values were held above individual rights.

Mussolini aligned with Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany before and during World War II, which ultimately led to Italy's involvement in the war. His reign ended in 1943, and he was eventually captured and executed by Italian partisans in 1945. Benito Mussolini remains a significant figure in history for his role in the development and spread of Fascist ideologies.

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In the context of Nigeria during the 1960s, the **most effective instrument** adopted by the country against the East-West Cold War was the **Non-alignment policy**. This policy aimed to maintain Nigeria's independence and neutrality by avoiding formal alliances with either of the two superpower blocs, the United States-led Western bloc or the Soviet Union-led Eastern bloc.

The **Non-alignment policy** provided several key benefits that contributed to its effectiveness:

Independence and Sovereignty: By not aligning with either superpower, Nigeria was able to maintain its sovereignty and make independent foreign policy decisions without the pressure or influence from either side.

Flexibility in Diplomacy: The policy allowed Nigeria to engage diplomatically with various nations, regardless of their ideological leanings. This enabled Nigeria to pursue bilateral relationships that were beneficial for its own national interest without being confined to a specific bloc.

Focus on Development: By adopting a stance of non-alignment, Nigeria could focus more on its domestic economic development and regional leadership within Africa, rather than getting entangled in the Cold War conflicts.

Overall, the **Non-alignment policy** effectively allowed Nigeria to navigate the geopolitical tensions of the Cold War while preserving its independence and focusing on its national interests and development goals.

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In Hausa pre-colonial administration, the office of the Prime Minister was usually occupied by the Waziri. The Hausa societies during pre-colonial times had a well-structured and organized system of governance similar to a centralized form of government.

The Sarki, or king, was the head of the administration, but he had a council of officials to help with governance. Among these officials, the Waziri was considered the most important after the king. He played a significant role in administration, acting as the chief advisor and assistant to the Sarki. The Waziri was responsible for advising the Sarki on state matters and often managed day-to-day administrative duties, making him equivalent to what we might think of as a Prime Minister today.

The Galadima was usually responsible for the affairs of the city, and the Madawaki typically handled military matters, specifically relating to cavalry. Thus, the role of the Waziri was more aligned with the duties of a Prime Minister.

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The adoption of a federal system of government in Nigeria is primarily motivated by the need to promote autonomy of states and promote unity in diversity.

Promote the Autonomy of States:
Nigeria is a country with various ethnic groups and cultures. The federal system allows each state, which may represent a particular ethnic or cultural group, to have some degree of self-governance. This means that states can make decisions best suited to their local circumstances, as they have control over certain areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. By fostering autonomy, the federal system helps prevent dominance by a single ethnic group and allows for more nuanced governance that can address the specific needs and aspirations of different regions.

Promote Unity in Diversity:
Nigerian society is highly diverse, with over 250 ethnic groups. A federal system accommodates this diversity by ensuring that different groups have representation and participation in governance. This system helps in managing diversity by allowing various ethnic groups to coexist peacefully under a central government while maintaining their unique identities and rights. It encourages cooperation and collaboration amongst the states, which contributes to national unity. By integrating diverse groups into a single political framework, the federal system helps to strengthen national identity and cohesion, thus promoting unity.

Ultimately, the federal system in Nigeria seeks to balance the need for a strong central government while respecting the cultural and ethnic diversity that characterizes its population. This balance helps maintain peace, stability, and development across the nation.

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The rule of law is a fundamental concept in legal and political theory that ensures that all individuals and entities are subject to and accountable to law that is fairly applied and enforced. Among the features listed, a basic feature of the rule of law is the concept of Equality before the law.

Equality before the law means that every person, regardless of status, wealth, ethnicity, or power, is subject to the same laws and entitled to the same legal protections. This feature ensures that the laws are applied uniformly, providing a foundation for fairness and justice in society. It contrasts with practices or systems where certain individuals or groups may be above the law or treated differently based on arbitrary distinctions.

In comparison, the other features mentioned, such as secret trials of offenders, unlimited power of the executive, and a dependent judiciary, do not align with the principles of the rule of law. Secret trials undermine transparency and accountability, unlimited power of the executive leads to tyranny, and a dependent judiciary erodes justice by compromising independence and impartiality.

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Before a treaty can be binding on a country, it typically has to be approved by the legislature. This is because the legislative branch of government is usually responsible for making laws and approving international agreements. The process involves a few key steps. First, the treaty is negotiated and signed by members of the executive branch, such as the president or prime minister and other officials. However, signature alone does not mean the treaty is fully accepted. To ensure that the treaty is consistent with the country's laws and policies, the legislature must review and ratify it.

Once the legislature has examined the treaty, they may hold debates and discussions to assess its implications. They need to ensure that the treaty aligns with the country's national interest and legal framework. If the legislature agrees, they will give their consent, thereby making the treaty legally binding. This legislative approval process allows for checks and balances in government, ensuring that the treaty undergoes thorough scrutiny by representatives of the people.

The judiciary is not directly involved in the treaty approval process; instead, they interpret laws and may address any legal disputes regarding treaties. The military does not play a role in approving treaties; their role is more about implementing defense-related strategies and policies that may arise from such treaties once they are enacted.

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In a representative government, the electoral process is fundamentally about ensuring that citizens have a clear path to select their representatives. This includes conducting free and fair elections where all eligible voters can participate without undue influence or barriers. An independent electoral commission is also essential as it ensures that the process is managed fairly, transparently, and impartially.

Additionally, a free press plays a pivotal role in keeping the electorate informed. It allows for the dissemination of information and offers a platform for public discussion, ensuring voters understand the choices available to them.

However, registration of birth is not a direct part of the electoral process. While birth registration is important for documenting an individual's existence and identity, it is not a step in the process of organizing or conducting elections. It is more of a civil registration system that helps in establishing the identity for various purposes, which can indirectly relate to voter identification, but it is not an electoral activity in itself.

Thus, registration of birth is the element that does not directly belong to the electoral process in a representative government.

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The pre-colonial Igbo political system is often described as acephalous in nature. This is because it lacked a centralized authority or head such as a king or chief, which is common in centralized political systems. Instead, the Igbo society was organized around individual communities or villages, each of which had its own set of rules and governance structures. These communities were largely independent and operated through a system of direct democracy.

In the Igbo culture, governance was conducted through a council of elders, age grades, and other traditional institutions. Decisions were made collectively, often through consensus, rather than by a single ruler. This decentralized and balanced approach to governance can also be described as fragmented because power and authority were spread out over various age groups and societal institutions, rather than being concentrated in one central figure or body.

Overall, the Igbo political system exemplified a grassroots and community-centered approach to decision-making, which allowed for a high degree of autonomy and flexibility within each village or community.

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The term that describes the political subjugation and economic exploitation of a people is colonialism.

Colonialism is a practice where a powerful country directly takes control of a weaker country or region. This control often involves sending settlers to occupy the land and rule it politically. The goal of colonialism is typically to extract resources, control trade routes, and exploit the local population for economic gain.

Under colonialism, the indigenous people of a region often suffer because their political freedom is taken away, and they are subjected to foreign rule. The colonizing power can impose its culture, language, and laws on the local population. Economically, the resources of the colonized region are often extracted and used for the benefit of the colonizing country, rather than for the development of the local population. This exploitation often leads to significant inequalities and unfair distribution of wealth.

To summarize, when we talk about political subjugation and economic exploitation of a people, we are referring to colonialism, as it encompasses both the loss of political control by the local populace and the economic exploitation of their resources and labor by a foreign power.

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The term you are looking for is a federal system. In a federal system, a group of states, regions, or provinces come together to form a union under a common, central government that has authority over the entire nation. However, each state maintains its own government and has certain powers that are not overridden by the central authority. This system allows for a balance of power between the central government and the individual states. Examples of countries with a federal system include the United States, Canada, and Germany.

In contrast, a unitary system is one where a single central government holds most of the power, and any administrative divisions benefit from devolved powers that can be revoked by the central authority.

A representative system is a form of government where citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf, but it does not inherently describe the relationship between a central authority and regions or states.

A confederal system is a loose alliance of independent states where the central authority has limited power, and the individual states retain the majority of governmental power. It is essentially the opposite of a unitary system.

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The Aburi Accord was a popular phrase during the administration of General Yakubu Gowon. This accord refers to a series of negotiations and agreements that took place in January 1967 at Aburi, Ghana, involving representatives of the military government of Nigeria and regional leaders to address the growing political tensions in Nigeria.

The primary aim of the Aburi Accord was to resolve disagreements about the country's governance and to prevent a looming civil war. Key issues discussed included the decentralization of power, the military structure, and resource control. Unfortunately, the agreements made at Aburi were not fully implemented upon return to Nigeria, leading to further tensions.

The failure to adhere to the Aburi Accord was one of the factors that contributed to the outbreak of the Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafran War, in 1967. Therefore, the Aburi Accord is closely associated with General Yakubu Gowon's leadership during that critical time in Nigeria's history.

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The formation of political parties in Nigeria is one of the features of the Clifford Constitution that was introduced in 1922. This constitution facilitated the establishment of legislative councils and allowed for the election of Nigerian members, although on a limited scale, to the legislative council in Lagos and Calabar. This political framework became a significant breeding ground for political activism.

One of the notable outcomes of this constitution was the emergence of political parties. The most significant of these was the **Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP)**, founded by Herbert Macaulay in 1923. This was the first political party in Nigeria, marking the birth of organized political movements that aimed to represent the interests of Nigerians in governance.

In summary, the Clifford Constitution laid down the groundwork for political participation and introduced elements of electoral democracy, such as electing members to the legislative councils. This setting provided the necessary motivation and structure for the formation of early political parties in Nigeria.

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The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is an example of a Public Corporation.

To understand why, let's break down the term "Public Corporation". A public corporation is a state-owned enterprise established by the government to carry out specific functions, often of a commercial nature, for the benefit of the public. They are characterized by the following:

• Government Ownership: They are owned and funded by the government to provide certain essential services to the public.
• Operational Independence: While they are government-owned, public corporations often have a degree of operational autonomy. This means they can operate with some independence, similar to private companies, but within the legal frameworks set by the government.
• Service Provision: They provide goods and services that are necessary for public welfare, such as utilities, transportation, or other vital sectors, where the private sector might be inefficient or unable to provide these services universally.
• Commercial Activities: Although they serve public interests, public corporations may engage in commercial activities and charge for their services, akin to private companies.

The Nigerian Ports Authority fits this description because it is a government-owned organization responsible for managing and operating the ports in Nigeria. It ensures that the ports function efficiently, handling imports and exports crucial for the country's economy. While it performs this essential public service, it also engages in commercial activities by charging fees for its services in loading, unloading, and storage in the ports.

In summary, the NPA functions as a government-established entity that balances public service with commercial operations, typifying a Public Corporation.

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The fundamental law containing the rules and principles governing a country is the constitution. It is a formal document that outlines the structure of the government, the powers and responsibilities of different branches, and the rights of the citizens.

Here's why the constitution plays a crucial role:

• Foundation of Law: The constitution is the foundational legal document from which all other laws and regulations derive their authority.
• Supremacy: It is the supreme law of the land, meaning that all laws and actions by the government must comply with it.
• Protection of Rights: Constitutions usually include a bill of rights or similar section that guarantees and protects the rights and freedoms of individuals.
• Government Structure: It defines the organization of the government, such as the separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
• Stability and Change: While it provides a stable framework for governance, it often includes procedures for its amendment, ensuring it can adapt over time.

In contrast, conventions refer to unwritten practices or customs; acts of parliament are specific laws passed by the legislative branch; and judicial review is the process through which courts interpret the constitutionality of legislative and executive actions. However, none of these play the comprehensive role that the constitution does in governing the foundational aspects of a country.

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Pressure groups are different from political parties in the sense that while political parties analyse and contest elections and aggregate interests (i.e. bring together people who have differing interests together), pressure groups articulate the interest of people how share a common goal. 

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The Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM) played a significant role in advocating for the rights and interests of Nigerians during the colonial period. They pursued their objectives through a mix of **protest**, **newspapers**, and **strike actions**. Here’s a simple explanation:

• Protest: The NYM organized and engaged in peaceful protests to voice their grievances against colonial policies. These protests were aimed at drawing attention to unjust practices and demanding reforms in governance and civil rights.


• Newspapers: The movement made effective use of newspapers to spread their ideas and rally support. Through editorials, articles, and opinion pieces, they communicated their messages and informed the public about the need for change, thereby reaching a wider audience beyond their immediate members.


• Strike Actions: The NYM also engaged in or supported strike actions, which were powerful tools to disrupt colonial economic activities and demand better working conditions and policies. Strikes were a way to exert pressure on the authorities to address their concerns.

The combination of these strategies helped the Nigerian Youth Movement to effectively pursue their objectives and lay the groundwork for future political activism in Nigeria. They demonstrated the power of organized advocacy in challenging unjust systems.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The agent in which the state undertakes direct political socialization is the school.

Here's why:

Schools play a crucial role in political socialization, which is the process of learning and internalizing the values, beliefs, and norms of a political culture. Unlike other agents, schools are often directly influenced and regulated by the state. They are used as formal settings where the government can introduce and emphasize civic education, national history, laws, and political systems.

This means that students learn about their country’s political system, responsibilities as citizens, and democratic principles through the curriculum designed and enforced by the educational authorities, which are typically linked to the state. Schools also celebrate national holidays and instill patriotic sentiments through various activities and programs.

On the other hand, the church may impart spiritual and moral values, the peer groups influence behavior and social norms, and the mass media shape public opinion. However, these are not typically under direct state control for political socialization.

Maelezo ya Majibu

One of the primary functions of a political party is the organisation of elections. Political parties are crucial in the democratic process, as they **help to organize and manage election campaigns** to ensure that their candidates have the best opportunity to be elected. This involves several steps, including candidate selection, organizing rallies, preparing campaign materials, and mobilizing voters to participate in the election. By effectively organizing elections, political parties can present their policies and candidates to the electorate, which allows citizens to make informed decisions about who they want to represent them in government. This process is essential for the functioning of democratic systems as it provides a structured way for citizens to engage politically and express their preferences.

Maelezo ya Majibu

The first military intervention in Nigerian politics occurred in the year 1966. This intervention marked a significant and drastic shift in Nigeria's political landscape. Prior to this, Nigeria had functioned as a parliamentary democracy after gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1960.

In January 1966, Nigeria experienced its first military coup, which was led by a group of army officers. These officers were dissatisfied with the political climate at the time, which was characterized by alleged corruption, ethnic tension, and political instability within the civilian government.

During the coup, several political leaders, including the Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, were assassinated. This coup ultimately led to the suspension of the constitution and the end of the First Republic, paving the way for military rule in Nigeria.

The consequences of this intervention were far-reaching, as it started a series of coups and counter-coups in the years that followed, profoundly impacting Nigeria's political history and development. The military would go on to rule for many years, with brief interruptions by civilian administrations, until the eventual return to civilian rule in 1999.

Maelezo ya Majibu

Public corporations in Nigeria are established through an Act of Parliament. This process involves the creation and passage of a specific law by the legislative body, which in Nigeria is the National Assembly.

Here's a simple way to understand this:

• When there's a need for a new public corporation to handle national issues like utilities, transportation, or broadcasting, a proposal is made in the form of a bill.
• This bill is then discussed, debated, and voted on by the members of the National Assembly, which consists of two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives.
• Once both houses approve the bill, it is sent to the President for assent. After the President's approval, it becomes an Act of Parliament.
• This Act legally establishes the public corporation, specifying its duties, powers, and organizational structure.

In essence, an Act of Parliament is the formal legislative process through which public corporations in Nigeria are established, allowing them to function under the legal framework provided by the law.