2011 JAMB GOVERNMENT PAST QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

This question assesses the understanding of different government question paper types used in examinations like JAMB. Type A may focus on specific subjects or formats, Type B on general knowledge, and so forth. Knowing the type helps in strategic preparation and time management during exams. For example, Type D might include multiple-choice questions, whereas Type C could involve essay writing. The other options represent different formats that may not be applicable in this context.

This question explores the concept of political orientation, which involves the formation of individuals’ attitudes and beliefs regarding a political system. Political orientation shapes how citizens interact with their government and influences their voting behavior. For example, someone with a liberal orientation may support progressive policies, while a conservative orientation favors traditional values. Other options like political emancipation or participation address different aspects of political behavior but do not specifically define the development of attitudes and beliefs.

This question examines the factors influencing political behavior, specifically political ideology. Political ideology encompasses a set of beliefs about politics and government, guiding how individuals act and make decisions in the political arena. For instance, a person with a socialist ideology may advocate for wealth redistribution, while a capitalist ideology supports free markets. Other options like political socialization or culture influence behavior but do not directly govern it as ideology does.

This question focuses on the concept of sovereignty, which refers to the ultimate authority in a political system. In democratic nations, sovereignty is typically vested in the electorate, meaning the people hold the supreme power to elect their leaders and influence government policies. For example, in a parliamentary democracy, the electorate votes for representatives who make decisions on their behalf. Other options like the state or elite may hold significant power but do not embody the ultimate sovereignty in a democratic context.

This question assesses understanding of democratic features, specifically state responsibilities to society. In a democracy, the government is accountable to the people and is expected to serve the public interest, ensuring services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure are provided. For example, democratic governments conduct regular elections to maintain accountability. Other options, such as interdependence of states or power vested in minority parties, are not defining features of democracy.

This question examines economic systems, particularly capitalism, where private ownership of the means of production is a fundamental principle. In capitalism, individuals and businesses own property and production resources, driving economic growth through competition and profit motives. For example, private companies like Apple or Google operate under capitalist principles. Other systems like communism advocate for collective ownership, while fascism and feudalism have different ownership structures.

This question explores different political systems, focusing on feudalism, which is characterized by hierarchical land ownership and a rigid social structure. In feudal systems, land is controlled by a few elites who grant portions to vassals in exchange for service or labor. For example, medieval Europe operated under feudalism. Other systems like totalitarianism or communism do not center primarily on land ownership hierarchies.

This question examines the separation of powers, specifically the role of the judiciary in performing quasi-legislative functions. The judiciary interprets laws and can create regulations or guidelines that have the force of law, similar to legislative actions. For example, courts may set precedents that influence future legislation. Other institutions like traditional bodies or the civil service do not typically engage in legislative-like functions.

This question explores the disadvantages of a confederation, such as the lack of a common currency. Confederations often have weak central authority, making it difficult to implement unified economic policies or ensure stability. For instance, member states may struggle to coordinate monetary policies without a shared currency. Other options like over-concentration of authority are more characteristic of federal systems, not confederations.

This question examines the accountability mechanisms in parliamentary systems, highlighting that members must report proceedings to their traditional rulers. This ensures that legislators remain answerable to their constituents and maintain transparency in their actions. For example, MPs may hold regular meetings with local leaders to update them on legislative activities. Other options like political parties or local government chairmen are also relevant but do not specifically address traditional structures.

This question assesses knowledge of governmental structures, identifying India as a unitary state. In a unitary system, power is concentrated in the central government, allowing for uniform policies across the nation. For example, France and Japan are also unitary states. Other options like the United States of America are federal states where power is divided between national and state governments.

This question tests understanding of parliamentary procedures, specifically adjournment. Adjournment temporarily suspends parliamentary sessions without dissolving the legislature, allowing for breaks between sessions while maintaining the continuity of legislative functions. For example, a parliament may adjourn for a recess during holidays. Other options like dissolution end the parliamentary term entirely, while prorogation extends the session.

This question explores features of parliamentary systems, noting that the executive is appointed by the legislature. In such systems, the head of government (e.g., Prime Minister) is typically a member of the legislature and is chosen based on majority support. This ensures a close relationship between the legislative and executive branches. Other options like judges being drawn from the ruling party are not defining features of parliamentary systems.

This question assesses understanding of socialist economic principles, where private accumulation of wealth is limited to prevent inequalities and ensure resources are distributed based on societal needs. Socialism emphasizes collective ownership and redistribution of wealth to promote social welfare. For example, in socialist countries, major industries are often state-owned. Other options like prohibition or regulation do not fully capture the extent of wealth limitation in socialism.

This question examines the history of constitutional theory, identifying Aristotle as one of the earliest scholars to classify constitutions. Aristotle categorized constitutions based on different criteria such as rulers and the public, laying the groundwork for later political theory. For example, he distinguished between good and corrupt forms of government like monarchy and tyranny. Other figures like Rousseau and Wheare contributed later to constitutional studies.

This question delves into the concept of constitutionalism, emphasizing the importance of strict adherence to a constitution. Constitutionalism ensures that government authority is limited by law, protecting individual rights and maintaining the rule of law. For example, constitutional courts can strike down unconstitutional laws. Other options like drafting or amending constitutions are related but do not fully define constitutionalism.

This question examines the benefits of delegated legislation, particularly how it allows technical issues to be handled by experts. Delegated legislation enables specialized bodies or officials to create detailed regulations within the framework established by the legislature, ensuring policies are effectively implemented. For example, environmental regulations are often developed by agencies with technical expertise. Other options like saving time or hastening policy implementation are also advantages but handling technical issues is a primary benefit.

This question assesses citizens’ obligations, highlighting the duty to pay taxes as fundamental for maintaining government functions and public services. Taxes fund essential services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure, ensuring societal stability and development. For example, citizens contribute to national budgets through income taxes. Other options like supporting the government or reciting pledges are also important but paying taxes is a legal and essential duty.

This question explores the concept of franchise, defining it as the right to vote. The franchise is a fundamental aspect of democratic participation, allowing citizens to influence government decisions and elect their representatives. For example, universal suffrage ensures that all adult citizens have the right to vote regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic status. Other options like ownership of means of production or sovereignty do not directly relate to the electoral right to vote.

This question examines the classification of party systems based on the structure of political parties. The structure includes aspects like party organization, membership, and ideological orientation, which influence how parties operate within the political landscape. For example, a two-party system like that of the United States is defined by its clear structural organization and dominance by two major parties. Other options like the relationship with the electorate or the number of parties are related but secondary to the structural definition.

This question explores how pressure groups function by formulating common interests among diverse individuals. Interest formulation involves identifying and articulating shared concerns, allowing groups to advocate collectively for specific policy changes or objectives. For example, environmental pressure groups like Greenpeace unify individuals to promote climate action. Other options like interest manipulation or aggregation are part of the process but formulation is the initial step in harmonizing concerns.

This question assesses the purpose of opinion polls, which primarily aim to gauge public opinion about particular government policies. Opinion polls help policymakers understand citizen perspectives, enabling them to adjust strategies and make informed decisions. For example, a poll on healthcare policy can reveal public support or opposition, guiding legislative actions. Other options like benefits derived from government or general feelings about issues are broader but the primary focus is often on specific policies.

This question explores the political structures of pre-colonial Igboland, where autocratic rule was hindered by the activities of cult societies. These societies played significant roles in maintaining checks on authority and promoting community governance, preventing the concentration of power in a single ruler. For example, the Ofo society acted as a moral and judicial authority, ensuring leaders remained accountable. Other options like the absence of centralized authority also contributed but cult societies were more directly involved in challenging autocratic tendencies.

This question examines the nature of the Yoruba traditional government, identifying it as monarchical. The Yoruba system featured kings (Obas) who held significant authority but were also advised by councils and participated in communal decision-making. For example, the Alaafin of Oyo was a central figure in Yoruba governance. Other options like republican or egalitarian do not accurately describe the hierarchical and king-centered structure of Yoruba governance.

This question delves into the hierarchical structure of the Sokoto Caliphate, identifying the Galadima as the next in command to the Sultan. The Galadima was responsible for administrative duties and acted as the Sultan’s deputy, ensuring effective governance and management of the state. Other positions like Alkali or Madaki had different roles within the Caliphate, such as religious or military leadership, respectively.

This question identifies acephalous societies, which lack a centralized government or hierarchical authority. The Igbo are a prime example of such societies, organized around kinship and village assemblies rather than centralized rulers. Other options like Benin or Ijaw have more hierarchical structures, making Igbo the correct answer for an acephalous society.

This question examines the colonial strategy of indirect rule, which often led to exploitation and oppression. Indirect rule allowed colonial powers to govern through existing traditional leaders, which sometimes resulted in the manipulation and abuse of authority, fostering divisions and hindering unified resistance against colonialism. For example, British indirect rule in Nigeria empowered certain chiefs to enforce colonial policies, often oppressing their own people. Other options like communal integration or inter-communal cooperation were not primary outcomes.

This question highlights the pivotal role of nationalists in Nigeria, focusing on the political liberation of the nation from colonial rule. Nationalists like Nnamdi Azikiwe and Obafemi Awolowo advocated for self-governance, leading to Nigeria’s independence in 1960. Their efforts established political structures and fostered a sense of national identity. Other options like registration of political parties or economic liberation were important but secondary to the primary achievement of political independence.

This question explores global events that influenced Nigerian nationalism, specifically the Second World War. The war fostered a sense of unity and self-determination among Nigerians, as returning soldiers and leaders sought independence from colonial powers. The shared struggle and global push for decolonization post-war significantly promoted nationalist sentiments. Other options like Pan-Africanism also played a role but the Second World War was a more direct catalyst.

This question traces the adoption of the presidential system in Nigeria, identifying the 1999 Constitution as the framework that established this form of governance. The 1999 Constitution emphasized the separation of powers, executive independence, and a clear distinction between the executive and legislative branches. Prior to this, Nigeria experienced different governmental structures, including military regimes and parliamentary systems. Other constitutional years like 1979 also had significant changes but 1999 marked the definitive establishment of the presidential system.

This question examines the political turmoil within Nigeria, specifically how the Action Group crisis resulted in the emergence of new political parties like the National Party of Nigeria (NPC). The crisis, rooted in ethnic and regional tensions, led to realignments and the creation of parties that better represented different interests, reshaping the political landscape. Other options like UPP or NCNC were existing parties and were not directly formed as a result of the Action Group crisis.

This question assesses the distribution of judicial authority in Nigeria’s 1963 Constitution, highlighting that the Supreme Court held the power of judicial review. This power allows the judiciary to invalidate laws and executive actions that are unconstitutional, ensuring the supremacy of the constitution. For example, the Supreme Court can overturn legislative acts that violate constitutional provisions. Other options like the President or Parliament do not hold this specific power.

This question identifies the formal guidelines governing the civil service, emphasizing that they are known as Service Orders. Service Orders outline the procedures, responsibilities, and ethical standards that civil servants must adhere to, ensuring efficient and accountable public administration. For example, they may include protocols for promotions, disciplinary actions, and daily operations. Other options like General Order or Bureaucratic Order are not the standard terms used.

This question explores the purpose of the Code of Conduct Bureau, which was created to enhance probity and accountability in public service. The bureau sets ethical standards for public officials, investigates misconduct, and promotes transparency to reduce corruption and ensure integrity in governance. For example, it may enforce rules against bribery and nepotism. Other options like protecting rights or ensuring independence are related but not the primary objectives.

This question traces the revival of political parties in Nigeria post-1978, identifying the Nigerian People’s Party (NPP) as the first to emerge after the lifting of the political ban. The NPP played a significant role in re-establishing democratic processes and providing a platform for political competition. Other parties like PRP or NPN were formed subsequently or were reconstituted versions of earlier parties.

This question examines the federal character principle in Nigeria, designed to ensure fair distribution of positions and appointments among people from various regions. This principle aims to foster national unity and prevent regional dominance by any single group. For example, government jobs and political appointments are distributed proportionally among different states and ethnic groups. Other options like revenue allocation or gender opportunities are important but not the primary focus of the federal character principle.

This question outlines the structure of the Nigerian Federation, detailing its component units as federal, state, local government, and the federal capital territory. These units work together to form a federal system where powers are divided between national and regional authorities. For example, states have their own governments with certain legislative powers, while the federal government handles national issues. Other options mix unrelated entities or omit key units.

This question explores the economic reforms in Nigeria aimed at privatization and commercialization, which sought to divest government major control of commercial ventures. The goal was to increase efficiency, reduce government burden, and encourage private sector participation in the economy. For example, privatizing state-owned enterprises like telecommunications companies allowed private investors to manage and innovate. Other options like handing over control or increasing government assets do not accurately reflect the privatization objectives.

This question identifies public corporations in Nigeria, focusing on entities like the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). Public corporations are government-owned entities that provide essential services to the public, operating in sectors like media, transportation, and utilities. For example, NTA broadcasts national news and educational programs. Other options like First Bank of Nigeria are private, while entities like the National Universities Commission are regulatory bodies, not public corporations.

This question examines the restructuring of traditional governance in Northern Nigeria, where traditional rulers were integrated into a Chief-and-Council system. This reform aimed to balance traditional authority with modern administrative structures, allowing rulers to collaborate with councils in governance. For example, local chiefs work with elected councils to manage community affairs. Other options like Prefects or Chief-in-Council do not accurately describe the integrated system.

This question traces the administrative divisions in Nigeria, identifying Gen Yakubu Gowon’s regime as responsible for the creation of Akwa-Ibom and Katsina States. Gowon’s administration focused on reorganizing states to improve governance and regional representation. For example, the creation of Akwa-Ibom aimed to address the demands for greater autonomy by the Eastern region. Other military leaders like Murtala Muhammed or Babangida were involved in different state creations or policies.

This question clarifies the roles defined in the 1999 Constitution, specifying that the President of the Court of Appeal is responsible for appointing and posting members of election tribunals for elections conducted by INEC. This ensures judicial oversight and impartiality in electoral disputes. For example, election tribunals can adjudicate on the validity of election results. Other options like the Chairman of INEC or the Chief Justice hold different responsibilities within the electoral framework.

This question tests historical knowledge, identifying Rhodesia as the former name of Zimbabwe. Rhodesia, under British colonial rule, declared independence in 1965 but was internationally unrecognized until it became Zimbabwe in 1980 following the Lancaster House Agreement. This transition marked the end of white minority rule and the establishment of majority governance. Other options like Swaziland, Zambia, or Namibia were known by different names or retained their colonial names longer.

This question explores Nigeria’s foreign policy strategy, highlighting non-alignment as a means to avoid taking sides in the Cold War. By adopting non-alignment, Nigeria aimed to maintain sovereignty and independent international relations without being influenced by the major powers of the time. This allowed Nigeria to engage with multiple blocs and advocate for African unity and decolonization. Other options like attaining equal status or insulating against taking sides are related but less precise in capturing the primary aim of non-alignment.

This question assesses knowledge of international relations, focusing on the number of non-aligned member states in 1979. The Non-Aligned Movement, established during the Cold War, aimed to create a third path for countries not aligned with either the US or the Soviet Union. In 1979, there were 37 member states, reflecting a significant bloc advocating for independence and cooperation among developing nations. Other numbers like 21 or 27 do not accurately represent the membership at that time.

This question identifies key figures in international organizations, specifically naming Rilwan Lukwan as a former Secretary General of OPEC. The Secretary General oversees the organization’s activities, facilitating cooperation among member countries to regulate oil production and stabilize prices. For example, Lukwan played a role in coordinating policies among oil-producing nations. Other options like Jibril Aminu or Dalhatu Bayero held different positions within or outside OPEC.

This question explores the origins of ECOWAS, recognizing Mali as a pioneering member alongside Nigeria in establishing the Economic Community of West African States. ECOWAS was created to promote regional integration, economic cooperation, and political stability among West African countries. For example, member states collaborate on trade agreements and conflict resolution. Other options like Liberia or Cote d’Ivoire were involved but Mali is specifically noted for its pioneering role.

This question tests knowledge of historical international organizations, identifying the League of Nations as an entity established before the Second World War. The League of Nations was founded after World War I to promote peace and cooperation but ultimately failed to prevent World War II. Other organizations like the UNO or ECOWAS were established post-war. The OAU was founded in 1963, making the League of Nations the correct pre-World War II organization.

This question clarifies the structure of the United Nations, specifying that the General Assembly is responsible for approving the annual budget. The General Assembly, comprising all member states, deliberates and approves financial plans to ensure the organization’s operations are funded. For example, member states contribute assessed and voluntary funds based on their capacity. Other organs like the Security Council focus on maintaining peace, not budgeting.

This question examines the governance structure of OPEC, detailing that each member state is represented on the Board of Governors for a period of four years. This representation ensures that each country’s interests are considered in decision-making processes regarding oil production and pricing. For example, countries like Saudi Arabia and Nigeria have delegates who participate in meetings and negotiations. Other durations like 2 or 3 years are incorrect as the standard term is four years.