Answers to 2024 past questions.
Subject: Government' section B.
GOV 002: IDEOLOGIES AND PROCESSES OF GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
1. (a) What is citizenship? [3 marks]
(b) Explain FOUR ways of acquiring citizenship [12 marks]
2. (a) Define the concept of legitimacy. [3 marks]
(b) Discuss FOUR factors that determine legitimacy. [12 marks]
Government 002. Ideologies And Process Of Government And Politics
3. Discuss FIVE factors that militate against free and fair election in Nigeria. [15 marks]
4. (a) What is public Administration? [3 marks]
(b) Discuss any THREE major theories of Public administration. [12 marks]
GOV 003: NIGERIAN GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
5. Discuss FIVE major differences between the Hausa/Fulani and Igbo pre-colonial system of government. [15 marks]
6. Discuss any FIVE achievements of the military in Nigerian politics. [15 Marks]
GOV 004: African Government And Politics
7. Explain FIVE major differences between the British and French colonial administration systems in West Africa. [15 Marks]
8. Discuss any FIVE benefits of colonialism in Africa. [15 Mark]
Answers to questions 2024 government JUPEB questions:
1. (a) What is citizenship?
Citizenship refers to the status of being a member of a particular country or state, with associated rights, responsibilities, and privileges. It involves a complex set of relationships between the individual and the state, including the obligations to obey the law, pay taxes, and participate in the democratic process.
1. (b) Explain FOUR ways of acquiring citizenship
1. Citizenship by Birth (Jus Soli) Citizenship acquired by being born within the territory of a country.
2. Citizenship by Descent (Jus Sanguinis): Citizenship acquired through one's parents, grandparents or ancestors, regardless of the place of birth.
3. Naturalization: Citizenship acquired through a formal process typically involving residency, language proficiency, and other requirements. An individual must fulfill all the constitutioal equipments and formally apply to become a citizen.
4. Marriage or registration: Citizenship acquired through marriage to a citizen of a country, subject to certain conditions and requirements, such an individual can acquire citizenship of the country by registration.
2. (a) Define the concept of legitimacy
Legitimacy refers to the acceptance and recognition of a government, institution, or authority as having the right to rule or govern. It involves the belief that the government or institution has the moral and legal right to exercise power and make decisions on behalf of its citizens.
2. (b) Discuss FOUR factors that determine legitimacy
1. Free and fair Elections: Free and fair elections can justify the legitimacy of government. This happens when the electoral commission is non partisan of politics and ensure a high credibility of the election.
2. Rule of Law: The adherence to the rule of law, including the protection of individual rights and the promotion of justice, can enhance legitimacy.
3. Transparency and Accountability: Transparency in government decision-making and accountability for actions can foster trust and legitimacy.
4. Cultural and Historical Ties: A government's connection to the cultural and historical heritage of its people can contribute to its legitimacy.
3. Discuss FIVE factors that militate against free and fair election in Nigeria
1. Electoral Malpractices: Vote buying, rigging, and other forms of electoral malpractices can undermine the integrity of the electoral process.
2. Violence and Intimidation: Violence and intimidation can disrupt the electoral process and prevent citizens from exercising their right to vote.
3. Inadequate Electoral Laws: Weak or inadequate electoral laws can create loopholes that can be exploited by those seeking to manipulate the electoral process.
4. Partisan Electoral Bodies: Electoral bodies that are perceived as partisan or biased can undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
5. Lack of Voter Education: Inadequate voter education can lead to confusion and misinformation among voters, potentially affecting the outcome of elections.
4. (a) What is public Administration?
Public administration refers to the implementation of government policies and programs through the management of public resources and personnel. It involves the delivery of public services, the management of public finances, and the administration of justice.
4. (b) Discuss any THREE major theories of Public Administration
1. Classical Theory: This theory emphasizes the importance of hierarchy, specialization, and efficiency in public administration.
2. Behavioral Theory: This theory focuses on the human element in public administration, emphasizing the importance of motivation, leadership, and organizational behavior.
3. New Public Management (NPM) Theory: This theory advocates for the application of private sector management techniques to the public sector, emphasizing efficiency, effectiveness, and customer satisfaction.
5. Discuss FIVE major differences between the Hausa/Fulani and Igbo pre-colonial system of government
1. Centralization vs. Decentralization: The Hausa/Fulani system was more centralized, with a strong emirate system, while the Igbo system was more decentralized, with a focus on village autonomy.
2. Monarchical vs. Republican: The Hausa/Fulani system was monarchical, with a strong emphasis on the emir's authority, while the Igbo system was more republican, with a focus on collective decision-making.
3. Social Hierarchy: The Hausa/Fulani system had a more rigid social hierarchy, with a strong distinction between the ruling class and the commoners, while the Igbo system was more egalitarian.
4. Economic Organization: The Hausa/Fulani system was more focused on trade and commerce, while the Igbo system was more focused on agriculture and local markets.
5. Cultural and Religious Practices: The Hausa/Fulani system was heavily influenced by Islam, while the Igbo system was more focused on traditional African religions and cultural practices.
6. Discuss any FIVE achievements of the military in Nigerian politics. [15 Marks]
The military has played a significant role in Nigerian politics, and while their interventions have been controversial, there are some achievements worth noting. Here are five achievements of the military in Nigerian politics:
1. Unity and Stability: The military has, at times, maintained national unity and stability, particularly during periods of civil unrest or regional tensions. For example, during the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), the military played a crucial role in maintaining the country's territorial integrity. Also the introduction of NYSC among Nigerian youth bring a sense of oneness.
2. Infrastructure Development: Military regimes have invested in infrastructure development, such as roads, bridges, and public buildings. For instance, the military government of General Olusegun Obasanjo (1976-1979) implemented several infrastructure projects, including the construction of new roads and highways.
3. Administrative Reorganization:
The military has, on occasion, reorganized the administrative structure of the country, creating new states and local government areas. This has helped to promote more effective governance and decentralization.
4. Economic Reforms/establishment of empowerment programs: Some military regimes have implemented economic reforms, such as the structural adjustment program (SAP) introduced by General Ibrahim Babangida (1985-1993). While SAP had its challenges, it aimed to liberalize the economy and promote economic growth. Also establishment of employment program such as Green revolution by Obasanjo.
5. Maintenance of law and Order: The military has, at times, maintained discipline and order in the country, particularly during periods of social unrest or lawlessness. For example, during the regime of General Muhammadu Buhari (1983-1985), the military cracked down on corruption and indiscipline, promoting a sense of order and discipline.
7. Explain FIVE major differences between the British and French colonial administration systems in West Africa. [15 Marks]
The British and French colonial administration systems in West Africa had distinct approaches, reflecting their different colonial philosophies and strategies. Here are five major differences:
1. System of Administration: The British employed a system of indirect rule, where local traditional institutions were used to govern the colonies. In contrast, the French used a system of direct rule, where French administrators were appointed to govern the colonies.
2. Language and Culture: The British promoted the use of local languages and cultures, while the French sought to assimilate their colonies into French culture, promoting the use of the French language.
3. Economic Policies: The British focused on promoting trade and commerce, while the French emphasized the exploitation of natural resources and the development of infrastructure to facilitate French economic interests.
4. Education and Social Policies: The British and French had different approaches to education and social policies. The British focused on promoting Western education, while the French sought to assimilate their colonies into French culture, promoting French education and values.
5. Legacy of Colonialism: The British and French colonial administration systems left different legacies in West Africa. The British legacy is characterized by a more gradual transition to independence, while the French legacy is marked by a more abrupt transition, often accompanied by ongoing French influence.
8. Discuss any FIVE benefits of colonialism in Africa. [15 Mark]
While colonialism had numerous negative consequences, there are some benefits worth noting. Here are five benefits of colonialism in Africa:
1. Infrastructure Development: Colonial powers invested in infrastructure development, such as roads, railways, and ports, which facilitated economic growth and improved connectivity.
2. Modernization and Western Education: Colonialism introduced Western education and modernization, which helped to promote economic development, improve healthcare, and increase access to education.
3. Economic Integration: Colonialism facilitated economic integration into the global economy, promoting trade and commerce between Africa and the rest of the world.
4. Introduction of New Technologies: Colonial powers introduced new technologies, such as irrigation systems, agricultural techniques, and medical technologies, which improved productivity and healthcare outcomes.
5. Unity and Integration: Colonialism, in some cases, promoted unity and integration among different ethnic and linguistic groups, creating a sense of national identity and shared citizenship.