2024 WAEC GCE SECOND SERIES (NOV.) GOVERNMENT: Government (Govt) WAEC GCE Second Series (November) Authentic Questions and Answer 2024 (2255)

(1)

(PICK ANY FIVE)

(i) Diverse Representation: A multi-party system allows for a diverse representation of political ideologies and interests. This diversity ensures that a broader range of perspectives is considered in decision-making, promoting inclusivity and reflecting the diverse needs and opinions of the population.

(ii) Checks and Balances: Multiple political parties create a system of checks and balances. Opposition parties act as watchdogs, scrutinizing the actions and policies of the ruling party. This scrutiny helps prevent abuses of power, corruption, and ensures accountability, contributing to the overall health of democratic governance.

(iii) Policy Alternatives: In a multi-party system, parties compete to offer different policy alternatives. This competition encourages parties to formulate well-thought-out and responsive policies to address the challenges faced by the society. Voters have the opportunity to choose among different policy proposals, enhancing the democratic decision-making process.

(iv) Responsive Governance: With the presence of multiple parties, elected officials are often more responsive to the needs of the electorate. The fear of losing support to rival parties encourages politicians to address the concerns of their constituents and implement policies that align with the public interest.

(v) Encourages Political Participation: A 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' multi-party system fosters greater political participation. Citizens are more likely to engage in the political process when they have a variety of political options. This increased participation strengthens the democratic fabric by promoting civic engagement and fostering an informed electorate.

(vi) Social Cohesion: By providing a platform for various political, social, and cultural groups, a multi-party system can contribute to social cohesion. It allows for the peaceful expression of diverse opinions and interests within a democratic framework, reducing the likelihood of social unrest and fostering a sense of unity despite differences.

Question 1: Explain five ways in which multi-party system strengthens the course of good governance in a democracy.

(i) Accountability: Multi-party systems provide for a system of checks and balances, which helps to hold the government accountable to the people.

(ii) Representation: Multi-party systems allow for a wider range of views and interests to be represented in government, which can lead to more inclusive and effective decision-making.

(iii) Competition: Multi-party systems promote competition for political power, which can incentivize political parties to develop and implement better policies.

(iv) Choice: Multi-party systems give voters more choices when it comes to who they want to represent them, which can help to ensure that the government is more responsive to the needs of the people.

(v) Participation: Multi-party systems can help to encourage greater participation in the democratic process, as people are more likely to vote if they have a choice of candidates and parties.

Question 2: In what 5 ways does a constitution ensure the smooth governance of a state?

i) Rule of law: A constitution establishes the rule of law, which means that everyone is subject to the same laws, including the government. This helps to create a stable and predictable environment for governance.

ii) Separation of powers: A constitution typically separates the powers of government into three branches: the executive, legislative, and judiciary. This helps to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.

iii) Fundamental rights: A constitution typically guarantees certain fundamental rights to citizens, such as the right to freedom of speech, the right to a fair trial, and the right to vote. These rights help to protect citizens from government overreach.

iv) Checks and balances: A constitution typically includes a system of checks and balances, which allows each branch of government to oversee the other branches. This helps to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.

v) Judicial review: A constitution typically gives the judiciary the power to review the laws of the legislature and strike down any laws that are found to be unconstitutional. This helps to ensure that the government acts within the limits of its authority.

(2)

(PICK ANY FIVE)

(i) Establishing Fundamental Principles: Constitutions outline the foundational principles and values that govern a state. These principles provide a framework for decision-making, ensuring that governance aligns with core values such as democracy, justice, and human rights.

(ii) Defining Structure of Government: Constitutions specify the structure of government, including the division of powers among different branches (executive, legislative, and judicial). This separation of powers helps prevent the abuse of authority and fosters a system of checks and balances.

(iii) Protecting Individual Rights: Constitutions often include a Bill of Rights or similar provisions that protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals. This protection ensures that citizens are shielded from arbitrary government actions, contributing to social stability and justice.

(iv) Establishing Legal Framework: Constitutions provide the legal foundation for the state. They define the legal system, establish the rule of law, and set procedures for enacting and enforcing laws. This legal framework ensures consistency and predictability in governance.

(v) Prescribing Processes for Governance: Constitutions outline the processes for decision-making, elections, and governance. By establishing clear procedures for selecting leaders, passing laws, and resolving disputes, 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' constitutions contribute to the smooth functioning of the government and help prevent political crises.

(vi) Enabling Adaptability: Constitutions often include mechanisms for amendment or revision, allowing the legal framework to adapt to changing circumstances. This adaptability is crucial for addressing evolving societal needs and ensuring the constitution remains relevant over time.

Question 3: Discuss five ways in which the legislator can best serve the interest of the constituents.

i) Representing the interests of constituents: The legislator should represent the interests of their constituents in the legislative process. This means listening to their concerns and advocating for their needs.

ii) Being responsive to the needs of constituents: The legislator should be responsive to the needs of their constituents. This means meeting with them regularly, hearing their concerns, and taking action to address them.

iii) Being accountable to constituents: The legislator should be accountable to their constituents. This means keeping them informed about their work in the legislature and being responsive to their feedback.

iv) Being transparent and honest with constituents: The legislator should be transparent and honest with their constituents. This means being open about their positions on issues, their voting record, and their spending of taxpayer money.

v) Working to improve the lives of constituents: The legislator should work to improve the lives of their constituents. This means supporting policies that will create jobs, improve education, and make healthcare more accessible.

(3)

(PICK ANY FIVE)

(i) Active Constituent Engagement: Legislators can best serve their constituents by actively engaging with them through regular town hall meetings, forums, and other platforms to understand their concerns, gather feedback, and keep them informed about legislative activities.

(ii) Accessible Communication: Maintain open and transparent communication channels, including newsletters, social media, and responsive websites, to ensure constituents are well-informed about legislative decisions, upcoming bills, and the legislator's stance on important issues.

(iii) Advocacy for Local Needs: Legislate and advocate for policies that directly address the specific needs and challenges of the constituency. By understanding local issues and championing relevant causes, legislators can effectively represent their constituents' interests.

(iv) Constituency Projects: Initiate and support projects that directly benefit the community, such as infrastructure development, healthcare facilities, educational programs, and other initiatives that enhance the overall well-being of the constituents.

(v) Responsive Case Work: Establish a robust constituent service system to address individual concerns and navigate bureaucratic processes. Assisting constituents with issues like accessing government services or resolving problems related to federal agencies demonstrates a 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' legislator's commitment to their well-being.

(vi) Collaboration with Local Leaders: Work closely with local leaders, community organizations, and stakeholders to gain a comprehensive understanding of the constituency's dynamics. Collaborative efforts can lead to more effective policies and initiatives that align with the genuine needs and aspirations of the constituents.

Question 4: Explain five reasons for which the State must take its hands off in the running of State-owned enterprises in Nigeria.

i) Efficiency and profitability: State-owned enterprises are often inefficient and unprofitable, due to government interference and corruption.

ii) Innovation and competitiveness: State-owned enterprises are often less innovative and competitive than private enterprises.

iii) Accountability and transparency: State-owned enterprises are often less accountable and transparent than private enterprises.

iv) Resource allocation: State ownership of enterprises can lead to a misallocation of resources, as the government may subsidize inefficient enterprises or invest in projects that are not in the public interest.

v) Corruption: State ownership of enterprises can increase the risk of corruption, as government officials may use their power to benefit themselves or their cronies.

Question V: Outline five ways by which you can contribute as a citizen to the development of Nigeria.

i) Vote in elections: Voting is one of the most important ways that citizens can contribute to the development of their country. By voting, citizens can choose the leaders who they believe will best represent their interests and work to improve their lives.

ii) Get involved in your community: There are many ways to get involved in your community, such as volunteering, attending community meetings, and running for local office. By getting involved in your community, you can help to make a difference in the lives of your neighbors and your community as a whole.

iii) Support Nigerian businesses: When you support Nigerian businesses, you are helping to create jobs, boost the economy, and promote self-reliance. By purchasing goods and services from local businesses, you are directly contributing to the growth and development of your country. Supporting local businesses also encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, fostering a vibrant and dynamic economy.

iv) Hold the government accountable: Citizens have a right to hold their government accountable for its actions. This can be done by staying informed about government policies, attending public hearings, and contacting elected officials to express concerns or suggestions. By actively engaging with 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' the government, citizens can ensure that their voices are heard and that their interests are considered in decision-making processes.

v) Promote education and literacy: Education is the bedrock of progress and development. By promoting education and literacy, citizens can empower themselves and future generations to contribute meaningfully to society. This can be done by supporting educational initiatives, volunteering in schools, or mentoring young people. Investing in education leads to a more informed, skilled, and engaged populace, driving innovation and economic growth.

(5)

(PICK ANY FIVE)

(i) Civic Engagement: Participate actively in civic activities, attend community meetings, and engage in discussions on local issues to stay informed and contribute ideas for development.

(ii) Education Support: Volunteer or support initiatives that promote education, such as tutoring programs, scholarship funds, or partnerships with local schools to enhance educational opportunities.

(iii) Entrepreneurship: Consider starting or supporting local businesses to stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities within the community.

(iv) Environmental Stewardship: Take part in or organize community clean-up initiatives, tree planting drives, and awareness campaigns to promote environmental sustainability.

(v) Community Health Initiatives: Contribute to health awareness programs, participate in vaccination campaigns, and support local healthcare facilities to improve the overall well-being of the community.

(vi) Infrastructure Advocacy: Advocate for improved infrastructure by engaging with local authorities, participating in community development projects, and ensuring accountability in the allocation of resources.

(vii) Technology and Innovation: Encourage and support technological initiatives that can improve various aspects of life, such as promoting digital literacy or supporting local tech startups.

*GOVERNMENT*

(6)

(PICK ANY FIVE)

(i) Cultural Representation: Chiefs and traditional authorities embody the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria, and their inclusion ensures that diverse cultural perspectives are represented in democratic governance, fostering a sense of inclusivity.

(ii) Community Connection: Chiefs often have deep-rooted connections within local communities, allowing them to understand and address the unique needs and challenges faced by their people, thereby enhancing grassroots engagement in the democratic process.

(iii) Conflict Resolution: Traditional authorities possess historical expertise in conflict resolution mechanisms, contributing to the maintenance of peace and stability. Integrating them into democratic governance can harness these skills for effective resolution of disputes at various levels.

(iv) Customary Law Expertise: Chiefs are well-versed in customary laws that govern many aspects of community life. Incorporating their expertise into the legal framework of democratic governance helps bridge the gap between formal legal systems and traditional norms.

(v) Social Cohesion: Involving chiefs promotes social cohesion by acknowledging and respecting traditional structures. This integration can mitigate potential tensions between modern democratic institutions and traditional systems, fostering a more harmonious coexistence.

(vi) 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' Historical Continuity: Chiefs often serve as custodians of historical knowledge and traditions. Their participation in democratic governance ensures a seamless blend of historical continuity and contemporary decision-making, providing a balanced perspective on societal evolution.

(vii) Local Development Initiatives: Chiefs, being intimately familiar with local needs, can play a crucial role in the planning and execution of development initiatives. Their involvement facilitates targeted and effective policies that address specific challenges faced by different communities within Nigeria.

(7)

(PICK ANY FIVE)

(i) Economic Instability: Political conflicts in Nigeria often lead to economic instability, hindering the country's development by creating an uncertain business environment and discouraging foreign investments.

(ii) Infrastructure Decay: Prolonged political conflicts can result in a neglect of infrastructure development. The focus on resolving political issues may divert attention and resources away from crucial projects like roads, bridges, and utilities.

(iii) Educational Setbacks: Political turmoil may disrupt the educational system, affecting the quality and accessibility of education. Schools may face closures, and the overall literacy rate may suffer, impeding human capital development.

(iv) Corruption and Mismanagement: Political conflicts can foster corruption and mismanagement of resources, diverting funds away from essential development projects. This undermines the effectiveness of development initiatives and perpetuates a cycle of underdevelopment.

(v) Social Unrest and Migration:* Political instability can lead to social unrest and displacement of communities. This upheaval may result in internal migration, affecting social cohesion and diverting manpower from productive activities crucial for development.

(vi) Impaired Health Services: Political conflicts can strain public services, including healthcare. The diversion of 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' resources and disruptions in governance may lead to inadequate health services, impacting the overall well-being and productivity of the population.

(vii) Deterioration of Rule of Law: Political conflicts often weaken the rule of law, fostering an environment where legal frameworks are undermined. This can lead to a lack of accountability, hampering the development of a fair and just society.

*GOVERNMENT*

(8)

(PICK ANY FIVE)

(i) Limited Enforcement Power: The United Nations faces challenges in enforcing its resolutions and decisions, as it relies heavily on the voluntary cooperation of member states, which can hinder its ability to prevent conflicts effectively.

(ii) Veto Power in the Security Council: The presence of veto power held by certain influential nations in the UN Security Council can impede swift and decisive action, as conflicting national interests may prevent the adoption of resolutions aimed at conflict prevention.

(iii) Resource Constraints: The UN often encounters financial and resource limitations, limiting its capacity to deploy peacekeeping missions or provide necessary aid in a timely manner to prevent conflicts from escalating.

(iv) Sovereignty Concerns: Member states' concerns about preserving their national sovereignty can hinder UN intervention, as some states may resist external interference, even in situations where conflict prevention measures are urgently needed.

(v) Regional Power Dynamics: The UN may face challenges in navigating complex regional power dynamics, as regional conflicts and tensions can be deeply rooted and may require nuanced approaches that the UN may struggle to implement effectively.

(vi) Ineffective Diplomacy: Diplomatic efforts may be hampered by the lack of consensus among member states or by 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' inadequate diplomatic strategies, making it difficult for the UN to mediate and prevent conflicts before they escalate.

(vii) Slow Decision-Making Processes: The bureaucratic structure of the UN can lead to slow decision-making processes, reducing its ability to respond swiftly to emerging threats and preventing timely intervention to avert conflicts among member states.\

(9)

(PICK ANY FIVE)

(i) Unity in Diversity: Federalism allows Nigeria to accommodate its diverse ethnic and cultural groups by granting a degree of autonomy to states, fostering national unity while respecting regional differences.

(ii) Resource Distribution: Through fiscal federalism, resources are allocated among the federal and state governments, ensuring that wealth generated in different regions contributes to the overall development of the nation.

(iii) Conflict Resolution: Federalism provides a framework for conflict resolution by allowing states to address local issues independently, minimizing the likelihood of regional disputes that could threaten national stability.

(iv) Responsive Governance: The division of powers between the federal and state levels enables more responsive governance, as local governments can address the specific needs of their communities without relying solely on central authorities.

(v) Checks and Balances: The separation of powers inherent in federalism helps prevent the abuse of authority. Each tier of government acts as a check on the others, promoting accountability and preventing the concentration of power.

(vi) Democratic Governance: Federalism supports democratic principles by decentralizing decision-making processes. Local elections allow citizens to participate in governance at various levels, promoting a more 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' inclusive and representative political system.

(vii) National Development: By fostering competition and innovation among states, federalism encourages economic development and social progress. This competitive dynamic contributes to the overall advancement of the country.

(10)

(PICK ANY FIVE)

(i) Economic Growth: Strengthening inter-dependence fosters economic collaboration, leading to increased trade and investment, thereby promoting overall economic growth in Nigeria.

(ii) Resource Sharing: Through inter-dependence, Nigeria can benefit from the sharing of resources and expertise with other states, ensuring efficient utilization and development of its own resources.

(iii) Political Stability: A commitment to inter-dependence encourages diplomatic cooperation, fostering political stability as nations work together to address common challenges, contributing to peace and security in Nigeria.

(iv) Technological Advancement: Collaboration with other states facilitates the exchange of technology and knowledge, promoting innovation and technological advancement within Nigeria.

(v) Cultural Exchange: Inter-dependence promotes cultural exchange, allowing Nigeria to showcase its rich cultural heritage while also learning from and appreciating the diverse cultures of other states.

(vi) Environmental Conservation: Collaborative efforts on environmental issues within an inter-dependent framework can lead to shared initiatives for conservation, benefiting Nigeria in terms of sustainable development and ecological preservation.

(vii) Global Influence: By actively participating in inter-dependent relationships, Nigeria can enhance its global influence and representation, enabling the country to have a 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' stronger voice in international forums and decision-making processes.