JUPEB 2025 GOVERNMENT QUESTIONS

GOV 001: ELEMENTS OF GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

1(a) Define Federalism.

Federalism is a system of government in which powers are constitutionally divided between a central (national) government and several regional (state or provincial) governments, each operating independently within its own sphere.

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1(b) Four features of a Federal System

1.Division of Powers:

Powers are shared between the central and regional governments as stated in the constitution.

2.Written Constitution:

A written constitution clearly defines the powers and responsibilities of each level of government.

3.Supremacy of the Constitution:

The constitution is the highest law, and both levels of government must operate within its framework.

4.Independent Judiciary:

The judiciary interprets the constitution and resolves disputes between the central and regional governments.

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2. Five features of a Unitary System of Government

1.Centralization of Power:

All governmental powers are concentrated in the hands of the central authority.

2.Uniformity of Laws:

The same set of laws and policies apply throughout the country.

3.Single Constitution:

There is only one constitution governing the whole country.

4.Flexible Constitution:

The constitution can easily be amended by the central government.

5.Subordinate Local Governments:

Local authorities derive their powers from the central government and can be altered or abolished by it.

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GOV 002: IDEOLOGIES AND PROCESSES OF GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

3(a) Define Election.

An election is a formal process by which citizens choose individuals to represent them in government offices or make decisions on public issues.

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3(b) Short notes on any FOUR types of elections

i. Primary Election:

Conducted within political parties to select candidates who will represent the party in the general election.

ii. General Election:

The main election where voters choose from among candidates of different parties for public offices.

iii. Bye-Election:

Held to fill a vacant seat in the legislature due to death, resignation, or disqualification of a member.

iv. Indirect Election:

Representatives are chosen by an electoral college or group rather than by direct vote of the people (e.g., election of senators in some countries).

v. Direct Election:

Voters directly cast ballots for the candidate or party of their choice.

vi. Re-run Election:

Conducted when an election is declared inconclusive or invalid to determine a final winner.

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4(a) What is Propaganda?

Propaganda is the deliberate spread of ideas, information, or rumors to influence public opinion or promote a particular political cause or ideology.

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4(b) Four strategies of propaganda

1.Name Calling:

Using negative labels to discredit opponents or ideas.

2.Bandwagon:

Persuading people to join a cause because “everyone else is doing it.”

3.Card Stacking:

Presenting only positive information about one’s side while ignoring negative aspects.

4.Glittering Generalities:

Using appealing but vague slogans to attract support (e.g., “Freedom,” “Change,” “Progress”).

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GOV 003: NIGERIAN GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

5. Strengths and Weaknesses of the Richards Constitution (1946)

Two Strengths

1.Introduction of Regionalism:

It divided Nigeria into three regions (North, East, and West), allowing for local autonomy and regional representation.

2.Expansion of Legislative Councils:

It increased African participation in governance through regional legislative councils.

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Three Weaknesses

1.Lack of Consultation:

The constitution was drafted without sufficient input from Nigerians.

2.Limited African Representation:

Most key positions remained under British control, limiting real political power for Nigerians.

3.Centralized Power Structure:

Despite regional councils, the Governor retained ultimate authority, making regional autonomy weak.