2013 JAMB GOVERNMENT PAST QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

This question assesses the understanding of different types of government examination formats. “Type I” typically refers to a specific format or style used in government exams. Recognizing the correct type ensures familiarity with the examination structure, which is crucial for effective preparation. The other options (Type D, B, U) represent different formats that do not align with the standard government exam types.

Delegated power refers to the authority granted by a higher level of government to a lower level or to specific agencies to perform certain functions. For example, federal governments may delegate powers to states or municipalities. This ensures efficient governance and specialization. The other options like coercion or direct exercise do not accurately describe the nature of delegated power.

De Jure sovereignty is the legal and rightful possession of ultimate power within a territory, acquired through established laws and formal agreements. For instance, a nation recognized by international law as an independent state holds de jure sovereignty. Options like force or treaties may contribute but are not the primary means.

The definition provided aligns with the concept of a “State,” which is characterized by a permanent population, defined territory, government, and the capacity to enter into relations with other states. While terms like community or nation relate to groups of people, they lack the full legal definition that constitutes a state.

Political socialization involves the process by which individuals acquire their political beliefs, values, and behaviors. This occurs through family, education, media, and other societal influences. It shapes how citizens engage with politics and understand governance. The other options relate to political structures or changes but do not capture the essence of socialization.

Aristotle classified government forms based on who rules and for whose benefit. An “Aristocracy” is rule by the few, typically the best or most virtuous, for the common good. This contrasts with oligarchy (rule by the few for their own benefit), democracy (rule by the many), and other forms. Understanding these distinctions is key to political theory.

Gerontocracy refers to a form of governance where the elderly hold power. This contrasts with other forms like monarchy (rule by a single monarch), feudalism (a hierarchical system based on land ownership), and theocracy (rule by religious leaders). Recognizing the specific terminology is essential for accurate political classification.

Commissioners in an executive role are primarily responsible for implementing laws and policies. This involves overseeing government departments, ensuring that legislation is executed effectively, and managing public services. Unlike law-making or financial roles, their focus is on execution rather than creation or financial management.

The judiciary is responsible for interpreting laws, adjudicating disputes, and ensuring justice is served. This includes reviewing cases, enforcing laws, and upholding the constitution. The executive enforces laws, while the legislature makes them, but adjudication is exclusively a judicial function.

Judicial review is the process by which courts oversee the actions of the executive branch to ensure they comply with the constitution. This serves as a check and balance, preventing abuse of power. Delegated legislation and motions do not directly represent this control mechanism.

A unitary system centralizes power, leading to a strong and stable government. This can result in uniform policies and efficient decision-making. Unlike federal systems, which distribute power across multiple levels, unitary systems avoid conflicts between different government tiers, enhancing stability.

In a presidential system, the executive and legislative branches are separate, preventing the fusion of powers seen in parliamentary systems. This separation ensures checks and balances. In contrast, parliamentary systems often have a fusion of powers where the executive is derived from the legislature.

Socialism advocates for the equitable distribution of wealth, emphasizing social ownership and reducing economic inequalities. This contrasts with capitalism, which focuses on private ownership and profit, aristocracy and plutocracy, which are governed by elite classes. Understanding economic systems is fundamental in political science.

A rigid constitution requires a formal and often arduous process to enact amendments, ensuring stability and preventing frequent changes. This is in contrast to flexible constitutions, which can be amended with relative ease. Rigid constitutions provide long-term governance frameworks.

A rigid constitution, due to its stringent amendment process, supports centralization by maintaining consistent governance structures. This prevents decentralization that might occur with more flexible systems. Written constitutions also provide clear guidelines, but rigidity specifically enhances central authority.

Delegation involves assigning specific powers from a higher authority to lower agencies or officials, enabling specialized governance and efficiency. This contrasts with concentration or devolution, which either centralize power or distribute it more broadly without specific assignment. Delegation is key for functional administration.

Citizenship by birth, also known as jus soli, is typically irrevocable and cannot be withdrawn, ensuring individuals retain their nationality regardless of circumstances. Other types, like citizenship by conquest or naturalization, can be rescinded under certain conditions. Honorary citizenship is symbolic and not permanent.

Universal suffrage grants all adult citizens the right to vote, ensuring broad participation in the electoral process. This differs from other forms of suffrage that may limit voting rights based on nationality, electoral status, or age. Universal suffrage is fundamental to democratic systems.

Political parties aim to gain political power by contesting elections and forming governments, focusing on broad political objectives. Pressure groups, however, seek to influence policies without seeking direct control. This fundamental difference in objectives distinguishes the two entities.

Pressure groups articulate the opinions and interests of their members, lobbying the government to influence legislation and policy decisions. Unlike political parties, they do not nominate candidates or contest elections, focusing instead on advocacy and representation of specific issues.

Public opinion encompasses the collective attitudes and beliefs of the population regarding specific issues or government actions. It reflects the general sentiment and can influence policy-making and democratic processes. This differs from the views of individual leaders or specific assemblies.

The Executive branch is responsible for implementing and enforcing laws, overseeing government operations, and ensuring that policies are carried out effectively. This distinguishes it from other branches like the Legislature, which makes laws, and the Judiciary, which interprets them.

In the Yoruba empire, the Ogboni society was responsible for performing ritual rites and maintaining traditional laws and customs. This body played a crucial role in governance and spiritual matters, distinguishing it from other titles like Oba (king) or Aare-Onakakanfo (military commander).

In the emirate system, the Madawaki is traditionally the title given to the commander of the army. This role is distinct from other positions like Hakimi (governor) or Alkali (judge), which have different responsibilities within the governance structure.

Indirect rule was effective in Northern Nigeria due to the presence of established traditional structures and leaders who could administer on behalf of the colonial government. This facilitated governance without extensive administrative overhaul, unlike regions with less organized systems.

The educated elite led the initial nationalist movements in Nigeria, using their education and status to advocate for independence and political reforms. Their leadership was crucial in organizing and mobilizing support against colonial rule, differentiating them from other groups like trade unions or traditional rulers.

The National Congress of British West Africa was the first significant nationalist movement in West Africa, advocating for independence and regional cooperation. It set the foundation for subsequent movements and political organizations aiming for self-governance and decolonization.

During Nigeria’s First Republic, the Prime Minister served as the head of government and was also a lawmaker, overseeing the executive functions while being part of the legislative body. This dual role contrasts with systems where the executive and legislative branches are separate.

The House of Assembly is responsible for the statutory allocation of revenue to local government councils under the 1979 Constitution. This ensures that local governments receive necessary funds for administration and public services, maintaining the federal structure.

Joseph Wayas led the Senate during Nigeria’s Second Republic, playing a pivotal role in legislative processes and governance. His leadership was instrumental in shaping policies and maintaining the legislative branch’s functions during this period.

The Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission determines the remuneration of all civil servants, ensuring fair and standardized compensation across public sectors. This statutory role helps maintain transparency and equity in public service salaries.

The Code of Conduct Bureau ensures that public officers adhere to ethical standards and maintain integrity in their official duties. This involves monitoring declarations of assets, preventing corruption, and enforcing accountability among government officials.

Nigeria’s Third Republic adopted a multi-party system, allowing multiple political parties to participate in elections and governance. This system promotes political diversity and competition, unlike single-party or two-party systems that limit political representation.

The federal system was adopted to address uneven development across different regions, allowing for decentralized governance and tailored policies that meet the specific needs of diverse areas. This structure helps manage resources effectively and prevents regional disparities.

The Supreme Military Council was the highest policy-making body during General Yakubu Gowon’s regime, overseeing national governance and military decisions. This council played a central role in directing policies and maintaining military control over the government.

Nigeria expanded to thirty-six states under the regime of Ibrahim Babangida, implementing administrative restructuring to improve governance and representation across diverse regions. This expansion aimed to enhance federal efficiency and accommodate Nigeria’s ethnic and cultural diversity.

Justice Akinola Aguda chaired the committee that recommended Abuja as Nigeria’s new federal capital. His leadership in the committee was pivotal in relocating the capital to a more central location, promoting national unity and administrative efficiency.

A public corporation is typically managed by a board of directors, which oversees its operations, strategic direction, and ensures accountability. This structure allows for professional management and governance separate from direct political control.

The federation account is a significant source of revenue for local governments post-1976, providing funds from the central government to support local administrative functions and public services. This ensures financial stability and resource allocation for local governance.

During Muhammadu Buhari’s regime, the Provisional Ruling Council served as the highest governing body, overseeing national policies and military governance. This council was central to decision-making and maintaining control over the country’s administration.

Nigeria’s non-alignment policy in the 1960s was undermined by its close ties with Britain, despite professing neutrality. This alliance limited genuine independent foreign policy and reflected underlying colonial influences rather than true non-alignment principles.

The Technical Aid Corps deploys Nigerian experts to Asia, Africa, and the Pacific regions, fostering international cooperation and providing technical assistance. This deployment helps build diplomatic relations and supports development projects in partner countries.

Nigeria’s foreign policy centre-piece focuses on Africa, emphasizing regional cooperation, solidarity, and leadership within the African continent. This focus aligns with Nigeria’s role in organizations like the African Union and ECOWAS, promoting continental integration and development.

Ghana was a pioneering member alongside Nigeria in establishing the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Their collaboration aimed to promote economic integration and cooperation among West African nations, fostering regional stability and growth.

President Olusegun Obasanjo played a significant role in the African Union, advocating for unity, peace, and development across the continent. His leadership enhanced Nigeria’s influence and contributed to key initiatives within the AU framework.

A High Commissioner is the term used for representatives of Commonwealth countries in other member states, similar to ambassadors but within the Commonwealth framework. This role facilitates diplomatic relations and cooperation among Commonwealth nations.

The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is the UN organ responsible for promoting international economic and social cooperation and development. It facilitates dialogue and collaboration among member states on a wide range of issues, distinguishing it from other UN bodies like the Security Council or General Assembly.

The General Assembly is the primary representative body of the United Nations, where all member states have equal representation. It serves as a forum for discussion, decision-making, and policy formulation on international issues, making it the central hub of UN activities.

The African Union (AU) has more effective tools for decision enforcement compared to its predecessor, the Organization of African Unity (OAU). This includes mechanisms like the Peace and Security Council, which allows for more proactive and enforceable actions in maintaining peace and security across the continent.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is significantly influenced by OPEC due to the critical role of oil revenues in global economics. OPEC’s control over oil production and prices affects international financial stability and economic policies, making its relationship with the IMF highly impactful.