NABTEB GCE 2025 Government Answers

NABTEB GCE 2025 GOVERNMENT ANSWERS (TYPE A)

GOVERNMENT OBJ (TYPE A)
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INSTRUCTIONS: ANSWER FIVE QUESTIONS IN ALL, AND AT LEAST TWO QUESTIONS FROM EACH PART.

PART I
INSTRUCTION: ANSWER THREE QUESTIONS ONLY FROM THIS PART.

(1a)
A party system is the pattern of political party organization and competition within a state, showing the number of parties that exist, how they operate, and how they struggle for power through elections.

(1b)
(i) One party system: This is a system where only one political party is legally allowed to operate and control governmental affairs. The ruling party dominates decision-making, and opposition parties are either banned or not allowed to function effectively. It ensures unity and quick decision-making but limits political freedom and democratic choice.
(ii) Two party system: This is a system where two major political parties dominate the political scene and compete for power. Although minor parties may exist, the two main parties are the ones capable of winning elections and forming government. It promotes stable government and clear policy alternatives but may limit wider political representation.
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(2a)
Indirect rule is a system of administration in which a colonial power governs its territory through the existing traditional rulers and local institutions rather than replacing them with new foreign structures. Under this system, the colonial authorities make policies, but the implementation is carried out by traditional leaders such as emirs, chiefs, and village heads.

(2b)
(i) Existing strong traditional authority: Traditional political structures in Northern Nigeria were already well-organized under the emirate system. The Emirs had clear administrative hierarchies and controlled districts, villages, and wards. This made it easy for the colonial government to implement indirect rule because they only needed to fit themselves into the already functioning system rather than create a new one.
(ii) Centralized system of government: The Northern region operated a highly centralized governance system before colonialism. Power flowed from the Emir down to district and village heads. This centralized structure allowed the colonial authorities to pass instructions through one chain of command, making governance effective with minimal resistance.
(iii) Respect and loyalty of the people to their rulers: The people of Northern Nigeria had deep respect for their traditional rulers due to cultural, religious, and historical beliefs. This loyalty meant that any policy communicated by the Emir or local chiefs was easily accepted by the people. The British took advantage of this trust to govern smoothly without direct interference.
(iv) Islamic legal and administrative system already in place: Northern Nigeria had a functional Islamic judicial system based on Sharia law, with established courts and judges (Alkalis). The British adapted this system into their administrative framework. Because the people were already familiar with these institutions, there was little confusion or resistance, contributing to the success of indirect rule.
(v) Low level of Western education and minimal resistance to colonial presence: At the time indirect rule was introduced, Western education had not spread widely in the North. As a result, fewer people questioned the authority of traditional rulers or resisted colonial directives. This reduced opposition made it easier for the British to govern indirectly through the emirate structure without challenges from educated elites, unlike in the southern regions.
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(3a)
Sovereignty: Sovereignty is the supreme power or authority that a state possesses to make and enforce laws within its territory without interference from any external body. It includes the ability to control internal affairs, conduct foreign relations, maintain law and order, and protect the nation’s independence. A sovereign state has full legal and political control over its citizens and resources.

(3b)
Nation: A nation is a large group of people who share common features such as history, culture, language, religion, traditions, and a sense of belonging to one identity. Members of a nation usually occupy a specific geographical area and have a shared desire to live together under the same political or social system. It is primarily a psychological and cultural community rather than a political one.

(3c)
Democracy: Democracy is a system of government in which power belongs to the people, either directly or through elected representatives. It is based on principles such as free and fair elections, majority rule, protection of minority rights, rule of law, freedom of expression, and political participation. In a democracy, citizens have the right to choose their leaders, influence decisions, and hold the government accountable.

(3d)
Neo-colonialism: Neo-colonialism is a modern form of indirect control in which powerful nations exert influence over weaker or developing countries through economic pressure, political manipulation, military presence, cultural dominance, or foreign aid dependency. These countries appear independent, but they remain controlled by foreign powers through trade imbalance, multinational corporations, and strategic alliances. It is considered a continuation of colonialism by non-military means.
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(4a)
(i) Separation of powers: In a presidential system, the powers of government are clearly divided among the three branches, executive, legislature, and judiciary. Each branch operates independently and cannot perform the functions of the others. This prevents the concentration of power and promotes checks and balances.
(ii) Fixed tenure of office: The president holds office for a specific and constitutionally defined period, usually four or five years. This tenure cannot be altered except through impeachment, resignation, or death. It ensures stability because leadership does not change unexpectedly.
(iii) Executive presidency: The president serves as both the head of state and head of government. This means the president performs ceremonial duties and also oversees national administration, policy implementation, and government operations.
(iv) Direct election of the president: The president is elected directly by the citizens through a general election. This gives the president a strong mandate from the people and makes the office politically legitimate and accountable to the electorate.
(v) Checks and balances: Each branch of government has powers to limit or regulate the activities of the others. For example, the legislature can approve or reject the president’s appointments, while the judiciary can declare executive actions unconstitutional. This promotes accountability and prevents abuse of power.
(vi) Independent judiciary: The judiciary operates separately from the executive and legislature. Judges are appointed based on merit and are not controlled by the president. This independence ensures fair interpretation of laws and protection of citizens’ rights.
(vii) Non-membership of cabinet in the legislature: Members of the president’s cabinet are not drawn from the legislature. Instead, the president appoints ministers or secretaries who are usually experts or trusted allies. This creates a professional and specialized executive team.
(viii) Single executive: The president alone holds executive authority and is responsible for national administration. Unlike parliamentary systems where executive power is shared by a cabinet collectively responsible to parliament, the presidential system places executive leadership in one person.
(ix) The Legislature cannot remove the president at will: The legislature cannot dismiss the president through a vote of no confidence. Removal is only possible through impeachment based on proven misconduct or violation of the Constitution. This protects the president from political instability.
(x) Clear constitutional supremacy: The operations of the presidential system are based strictly on the constitution, which defines powers, responsibilities, and limitations of each branch. All authorities must act within constitutional boundaries, and any violation can be challenged in court.
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(5a)
The rule of law is a principle that ensures everyone, including government officials, institutions, and private citizens, is subject to and accountable under the law. It guarantees that laws are applied equally, fairly, and consistently, protecting individuals from arbitrary use of power and upholding justice, order, and legal certainty in society.

(5b)
(i) Supremacy of the law: No one is above the law, not even political leaders or government authorities. All actions, decisions, and policies must conform to established legal frameworks. This prevents abuse of power and ensures that governance is conducted according to law.
(ii) Equality before the law: Every individual, regardless of status, wealth, ethnicity, or position, must be treated equally under the law. Discrimination or favoritism is prohibited, ensuring fairness in legal processes and access to justice.
(iii) Accountability of government: Government officials and public servants are accountable for their actions and must operate within legal boundaries. Any breach of law or abuse of power can result in legal sanctions, impeachment, or judicial review.
(iv) Legal certainty: Laws must be clear, publicized, and stable to allow citizens to understand their rights and obligations. Predictable and consistent laws enable individuals and organizations to plan their actions confidently without fear of arbitrary interference.
(v) Fair and impartial justice: Judicial decisions must be made based on evidence, legal principles, and fairness, free from bias, corruption, or undue influence. Independent courts ensure that justice is accessible to all and that legal disputes are resolved impartially.
(vi) Protection of fundamental rights: The rule of law guarantees the protection of individual rights and liberties, such as freedom of speech, movement, and property rights. Laws should safeguard citizens from oppression, ensuring that their freedoms are respected and upheld.
(vii) Separation of powers: To maintain the rule of law, government powers are divided among the executive, legislature, and judiciary. This prevents any branch from exercising unchecked authority and ensures mutual oversight and balance in governance.
(viii) Obedience to the law: Citizens are expected to follow the law, and the law applies equally to everyone. Compliance strengthens social order and reinforces the legitimacy of the legal system.

(5c)
(i) Inequality in enforcement: Even though the rule of law emphasizes equality, in practice, powerful individuals, government officials, or wealthy citizens may manipulate the legal system to escape justice. Corruption, bribery, and influence can result in selective enforcement, undermining the fairness and effectiveness of the law.
(ii) Complexity and inaccessibility of laws: Laws are often written in technical language that ordinary citizens may find difficult to understand. This complexity can prevent people from fully knowing their rights or complying with legal requirements, limiting the practical impact of the rule of law.
(iii) Delays and inefficiency in the legal system: Judicial processes can be slow due to bureaucracy, lack of resources, or overloaded courts. Long delays in resolving cases can deny timely justice, making the protection offered by the rule of law less effective and eroding public confidence in legal institutions.
(iv) Political interference and lack of independence: In some societies, the judiciary may be influenced by politicians or ruling parties, compromising impartiality. When judges are pressured or threatened, the legal system cannot function independently, weakening the enforcement of laws and limiting the real power of the rule of law.
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NABTEB GCE 2025 GOVERNMENT ANSWERS (TYPE A)

PART II
INSTRUCTION: ANSWER TWO QUESTIONS ONLY FROM THIS PART.

(6a)
(i) Promote economic integration: ECOWAS aims to create a single economic and trade space among its member states to enhance economic growth. This involves harmonizing policies, removing trade barriers, and encouraging free movement of goods, services, and capital across the region.
(ii) Foster regional peace and security: One of the primary objectives of ECOWAS is to prevent conflicts and maintain stability in West Africa. The organization intervenes in cases of political crises, civil wars, or coups through diplomatic measures, peacekeeping missions, and conflict resolution initiatives.
(iii) Encourage cooperation in social and cultural development: ECOWAS promotes collaboration among member states in areas such as education, health, science, culture, and technology. This strengthens regional identity and improves the quality of life for citizens across West Africa.
(iv) Facilitate free movement of people: The organization aims to allow citizens of member states to move freely across borders for work, education, or travel. This includes the removal of visa restrictions, recognition of travel documents, and protection of migrant rights.
(v) Promote sustainable development: ECOWAS focuses on long-term regional development by encouraging policies that improve infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and industry. It also supports environmental protection and coordinated strategies to reduce poverty and inequality.

(6b)
(i) Limited financial resources: ECOWAS often struggles with inadequate funding to implement its programs and initiatives. Many member states fail to contribute their full financial obligations, which constrains the organization’s ability to carry out economic or peacekeeping activities effectively.
(ii) Political instability in member states: Frequent coups, civil unrest, and governance challenges in some member countries undermine ECOWAS’s efforts to promote regional peace and cooperation. Political instability limits the effectiveness of its policies and interventions.
(iii) Weak enforcement mechanisms: ECOWAS lacks strong legal or coercive powers to enforce its decisions. When member states ignore directives or agreements, the organization has limited means to compel compliance, reducing its authority and impact.
(iv) Diverse economic development levels: The varying economic capacities and priorities of member states make it difficult to implement common policies or achieve full economic integration. Differences in infrastructure, industrialization, and trade readiness create imbalances in regional cooperation.
(v) Corruption and poor governance: Corruption within member states and at times within ECOWAS institutions hinders effective administration and accountability. Mismanagement of resources and political favoritism weaken trust and reduce the efficiency of programs designed to benefit the entire region.
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(7a)
Civil service is the body of government employees who are employed in various ministries, departments, and agencies to implement policies, provide public services, and carry out administrative duties. Civil servants are usually non-political, meaning they remain in their positions regardless of changes in government leadership, ensuring continuity and stability in governance.

(7b)
(i) Policy implementation: The civil service is responsible for putting into action the decisions and policies made by the government. This includes translating legislative laws and executive directives into practical programs, projects, and services that affect citizens daily.
(ii) Advising the government: Civil servants provide expert advice to political leaders on matters of administration, economics, law, and social development. Their professional knowledge and experience guide policymakers in making informed and effective decisions.
(iii) Administrative support: Civil servants handle the day-to-day management of government offices and institutions. This includes record-keeping, correspondence, scheduling, budgeting, and ensuring that government operations run smoothly and efficiently.
(iv) Provision of public services: The civil service delivers essential services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure maintenance, security, and social welfare. Their work ensures that citizens have access to the necessary resources and programs provided by the state.
(v) Maintaining continuity in governance: Civil servants remain in office even when there is a change in political leadership. This ensures that government functions continue without interruption, preserving institutional memory, and supporting stable administration over time.
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(8a)
(i) Separation of powers among rulers and chiefs: In the Yoruba pre-colonial system, power was shared between the Oba (king) and his chiefs or council of elders. The Oba had authority over traditional, spiritual, and administrative matters, but his power was limited by the council, which advised him and could challenge decisions if they threatened the welfare of the people.
(ii) Role of the council of chiefs: The council of chiefs acted as a check on the Oba’s decisions. They could influence, approve, or veto policies, appointments, and judicial decisions. This prevented absolute monarchy and ensured that governance reflected collective judgment rather than the whims of a single ruler.
(iii) Judicial oversight by elders and titleholders: Judicial authority was often exercised by elders, titled chiefs, and specialized groups such as the Ogboni society. They ensured that laws, customs, and moral codes were enforced fairly. Even the Oba was expected to adhere to customary laws, preventing abuse of power.
(iv) Community participation and public accountability: Ordinary citizens and family heads could appeal decisions, provide advice through town meetings (palavers), and voice grievances. This practice ensured that the Oba and his chiefs remained accountable to the community, limiting arbitrary decisions.
(v) Religious and spiritual checks: The Oba’s decisions were also subject to religious and spiritual oversight. Priests and traditional religious institutions could sanction or advise against policies that violated spiritual or moral norms, balancing political power with spiritual authority.

(8b)
(i) Administration and governance: The Oba acted as the chief executive, overseeing the day-to-day administration of the town or kingdom. This included organizing the collection of tribute, managing resources, supervising markets, and ensuring the smooth operation of government institutions.
(ii) Law enforcement and security: The Oba was responsible for maintaining law and order, using chiefs, messengers, and traditional guards to enforce decisions, punish offenders, and prevent conflicts. This function also included mobilizing warriors during wars or defending the kingdom from external threats.
(iii) Appointment of chiefs and officials: The Oba had the authority to appoint, promote, or remove chiefs and other administrative officials. This executive role ensured that competent and loyal individuals managed different departments or local communities under his jurisdiction.
(iv) Fiscal management: The Oba oversaw economic activities, including the collection of taxes, tributes, and fines. He managed communal lands and resources, ensuring that revenue supported public works, festivals, and the welfare of the community.
(v) Representation in diplomacy and foreign relations: The Oba acted as the kingdom’s representative in negotiations, alliances, and treaties with neighboring towns or kingdoms. He conducted diplomacy, settled disputes, and maintained peaceful relations while protecting the interests of his people.
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(9a)
(i) Cost-effective administration: Indirect rule reduced the financial burden on the colonial government because it relied on existing traditional structures rather than creating entirely new administrative systems. The British did not have to maintain a large bureaucracy, army, or police force, as the local rulers already handled governance at the community level.
(ii) Utilization of established traditional authority: Traditional rulers, such as emirs, chiefs, and village heads, already had authority and legitimacy in the eyes of their people. By working through these leaders, the British were able to govern more effectively because the populace respected and obeyed their local rulers.
(iii) Reduced resistance to colonial rule: Since the colonial authorities preserved local institutions and customs, indirect rule faced less opposition from the people. The continuity of traditional governance gave a sense of familiarity and stability, making the imposition of foreign rule less disruptive.
(iv) Maintenance of social order: Indirect rule allowed traditional rulers to enforce laws and mediate disputes according to local customs and norms. This ensured that social order was maintained and that conflicts could be resolved using familiar processes, reducing the likelihood of rebellion or unrest.
(v) Facilitated governance over large territories: Nigeria was a vast and diverse country with multiple ethnic groups and languages. Indirect rule allowed the British to govern efficiently across distant and culturally different areas by delegating authority to local rulers who understood their communities and could communicate effectively with the people.

(9b)
(i) Strengthened authoritarianism among local rulers: Indirect rule often increased the power of traditional leaders, making them more authoritarian. Some rulers abused their positions, imposing heavy taxes, punishing opponents arbitrarily, and suppressing dissent, which negatively affected the local population.
(ii) Undermined traditional checks and balances: The system sometimes weakened councils and other traditional bodies that previously advised or limited the power of rulers. With colonial backing, emirs and chiefs gained excessive power, reducing accountability and concentrating authority in a few hands.
(iii) Encouraged corruption and favoritism: Traditional rulers often exploited their positions to enrich themselves or favor loyal supporters. Since the British rarely interfered in internal affairs as long as tribute was collected, corruption flourished, undermining justice and fairness.
(iv) Hindered modernization and development: Indirect rule preserved traditional systems that were sometimes resistant to change. This slowed the adoption of modern education, infrastructure, and governance reforms, as rulers prioritized maintaining their authority over introducing progressive policies.
(v) Exacerbated ethnic divisions: By ruling through traditional authorities, indirect rule reinforced ethnic and regional differences. Some groups were privileged over others based on local hierarchies, which created tensions, resentment, and inequality that persisted into the post-colonial period.
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