Government and Civics
Government and Civics tests the Nigerian constitutional order, institutions and citizens' rights. Expect questions on the constitution, the three arms of government, federalism and electoral administration.
Core rules
- The 1999 Constitution, as amended, is supreme and establishes federal, state and local government tiers.
- Three arms: the legislature makes laws, the executive implements them and the judiciary interprets them.
- Separation of powers is reinforced by checks and balances, such as judicial review and legislative confirmation.
- INEC conducts federal and state elections; the 2022 Electoral Act governs recent procedures.
- Chapter IV of the Constitution contains enforceable fundamental rights, including life, fair hearing and freedom of expression.
Worked example
A citizen's right to fair hearing is protected under which part of the Constitution?
Chapter IV. Chapter II contains Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles, which are largely non-justiciable, while Chapter IV rights can be enforced in court. Knowing the difference between the two chapters answers the question directly.
Traps that cost marks
- Confusing Chapter II with Chapter IV.
- Saying local government makes laws; it makes bye-laws.
- Assuming every right is absolute; some are subject to lawful derogation.
- Mixing the roles of INEC and the National Assembly in elections.
- Ignoring the distinction between federal and state legislative lists.