Question 7
(a) Explain any three pillars of democracy from the list below:
- Independent Judiciary;
- The military;
- Political parties;
- Civil Society Organizations;
- Free and independent press;
(b) Highlight three reasons why competition for political power among politicians is fierce in Nigeria
Observation
Candidates’ performance in this question was poor. Majority of the candidates avoided this question and those who attempted it lacked mastery of this topic. However, those who were prepared maxed out the total points obtainable as they showed they were experts in the knowledge of the subject matter and how the pillars of democracy can aid a progressive society. On average, the performances of candidates were below average. Points candidates were to take note of are
EXPLANATIONS OF THE FOLLOWING PILLARS OF DEMOCRACY
- Independent Judiciary: is the absolute freedom of the Judiciary to administer justice without interference from any external body such as executive, legislature, Civil Societies etc.
- The military: these are constitutionally established bodies empowered to protect/defend the territorial integrity of a democratic state against internal insurrection and external aggression. They consist of Army, Air-force and Navy.
- Political parties: these are organized group of people who share common ideas with the sole aim of contesting elections to gain/assume political power in a democratic state.
- Civil Society Organizations: these are private non-profit organization formed to promote collectively shared values, interests and objectives that are capable of enhancing the general welfare and development of democratic states.
- Free and independent press: is the freedom of the media to act as watchdogs of democracy, highlighting democratic deficits, demanding accountability as well as informing, educating and entertaining people without undue censorship for the purpose of good governance in a democracy.
REASONS WHY COMPETITION FOR POLITICAL POWER AMONG POLITICIANS IS FIERCE IN NIGERIA
- High premium/lucrative nature of politics in Nigeria
- It is a zero-sum-game, where the winner takes all
- Politicians use politics as security and means of survival instead of service
- Immunity law enjoyed by some politicians
- Prestige and honour that follows political offices
- Selfish interest of politicians
- Sit-tight syndrome of political authority