WAEC GCE 2023 “Government” Objectives and Essay: Questions & Answers

 In this article, we will explore the WAEC GCE 2023 Government objectives and essay questions and provide comprehensive answers to help candidates prepare for the examination. The West African Examination Council (WAEC) Government paper for SSCE is scheduled to be written on Wednesday, 15th November 2023. It is essential for candidates to familiarize themselves with the topics and concepts covered in the government syllabus to perform well in the exam.

Understanding Political Socialization

Political socialization is a crucial aspect of government studies. It refers to the process through which individuals acquire and transmit political knowledge and values from one generation to another. It plays a significant role in shaping individuals’ political ideologies and attitudes towards the political system. The transmission of values and beliefs of the political culture from one generation to the next is an integral part of political socialization. It ensures the continuity and evolution of political culture over time. Political socialization is a lifelong learning process that changes in pace and role as individuals progress through life. It equips individuals with the necessary knowledge and incentive to participate in politics and take up various roles within the political system.

Methods of Political Participation

Political participation is essential for a functioning democracy. It refers to the actions and activities individuals engage in to influence the political system and decision-making processes. There are various methods of political participation, each with its own significance and impact. Some common methods of political participation include:

1. Voting: One of the most fundamental methods of political participation is casting votes in elections. Through voting, individuals have the power to choose their representatives and shape the composition of the government.
2. Joining Political Parties: Joining a political party allows individuals to actively engage in the political process. They can contribute to policy formulation, participate in party activities, and support candidates during elections.
3. Protests and Demonstrations: Engaging in protests and demonstrations is a way for citizens to express their grievances and demand change. These actions can draw attention to specific issues and put pressure on the government to address them.
4. Contacting Elected Representatives: Another method of political participation is contacting elected representatives, such as Members of Parliament or local councilors. By expressing their views and concerns, individuals can influence policy decisions and advocate for change.

Understanding Public Corporations

Public corporations play a significant role in the provision of essential services to the public. They are business organizations established, owned, managed, and financed by the government with the aim of making a profit while rendering essential services. Public corporations are subject to various forms of control and oversight to ensure transparency and accountability. Some key features and controls of public corporations include:

1. Financial Control: The accounts of public corporations are audited regularly by government auditors to prevent financial mismanagement. Auditors’ reports are submitted to the Minister, who presents them to parliament, ensuring financial accountability.
2. Judicial Control: Public corporations can be taken to court if they act beyond the limits set by the law. They are subject to legal scrutiny, and their actions can be declared ultra vires if they exceed their prescribed authority.
3. Ministerial Control: Ministers, who are accountable to parliament, have extensive powers over public corporations. They can appoint and dismiss board members, approve loans and major expenditures, and determine remunerations and conditions of service.
4. Public Control: Members of the public who consume goods and services provided by public corporations exercise control through criticism and feedback. Their opinions and concerns can influence the operations and decisions of these corporations.

Objectives of Foreign Policy in West African Countries

Foreign policy plays a critical role in shaping a country’s relationships with other nations. Each West African country has its own specific objectives in its foreign policy. Some common objectives of foreign policy in West African countries include:

1. Economic Development: Promoting economic development is a key objective of foreign policy. West African countries aim to attract foreign investment, establish trade partnerships, and enhance economic cooperation with other nations.
2. Regional Integration: West African countries seek to foster regional integration to promote economic growth, social development, and political stability. This includes the establishment of regional organizations and initiatives, such as ECOWAS, to facilitate cooperation and integration.
3. Peace and Security: Maintaining peace and security within the region is a primary objective of foreign policy. West African countries work together to address conflicts, combat terrorism, and promote stability through diplomatic negotiations and peacekeeping operations.
4. Good Governance and Human Rights: West African countries strive to promote good governance, democracy, and respect for human rights within their own countries and in the international arena. They support initiatives that promote democratic values and human rights principles.

Ways to Prevent Military Intervention in Politics

Military intervention in politics can have severe consequences for a country’s stability and democratic processes. To prevent military intervention, various measures can be taken. Some effective ways to prevent military intervention in politics include:

1. Strong Civilian Control: Establishing and maintaining strong civilian control over the military is crucial. This includes clear lines of authority, effective oversight mechanisms, and a legal framework that limits the military’s involvement in political affairs.
2. Respect for the Rule of Law: Upholding the rule of law is essential in preventing military intervention. When the rule of law is respected, political disputes and conflicts are resolved through legal and democratic processes, reducing the likelihood of military intervention.
3. Strengthening Democratic Institutions: Building strong democratic institutions, such as independent judiciaries, free and fair electoral systems, and accountable governance structures, can help prevent military intervention. Robust democratic institutions provide avenues for peaceful resolution of political disagreements.
4. Socioeconomic Development: Addressing socio-economic disparities and promoting inclusive development can contribute to political stability. When citizens have access to basic needs, education, and opportunities, they are less likely to support or participate in military interventions.

Slow Rate of Nationalism in French-speaking West Africa

Nationalism refers to the sense of national identity and pride in one’s country. In French-speaking West Africa, the rate of nationalism has been relatively slow compared to other regions. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:

1. Colonial Legacy: The colonial experience in French-speaking West Africa has shaped the region’s socio-political landscape. French colonial policies emphasized assimilation and the imposition of French culture, which suppressed indigenous cultures and identities.
2. Cultural Influences: French-speaking West Africa has a diverse cultural and linguistic landscape. The presence of multiple ethnic groups and languages can sometimes hinder the development of a unified national identity, leading to a slower rate of nationalism.
3. Economic Challenges: Economic challenges, such as poverty and inequality, can undermine national cohesion and pride. Limited access to resources and opportunities can create divisions and hinder the development of a strong sense of nationalism.
4. Political Factors: Political instability, corruption, and authoritarian regimes in some countries of French-speaking West Africa can also impede the growth of nationalism. Lack of trust in political institutions and leaders can weaken the sense of national identity.

Challenges of the United Nations Organization (UNO)

The United Nations Organization (UNO) faces several challenges in its pursuit of global peace and cooperation. These challenges include:

1. Shortage of Funds: The UNO engages in large-scale operations that strain its financial resources. This shortage of funds can limit the organization’s ability to effectively address global issues and carry out its mandates.
2. Sovereignty of Nations: Nations are often reluctant to surrender their sovereignty to the authority of the UNO. This can hinder the organization’s ability to enforce its decisions and implement effective measures to address global challenges.
3. Veto Power: The five permanent members of the UN Security Council possess veto power, which they can use to protect their own interests. This can lead to the prioritization of individual agendas over the collective objectives of the organization.
4. Poverty: The UNO faces significant challenges in addressing poverty among member states. Economic disparities and lack of resources hinder the organization’s efforts to combat poverty and promote sustainable development.
5. Difference in Ideology: Differences in ideology, culture, politics, and economic goals among member states can impede the achievement of lasting peace. These differences can create conflicts of interest and hinder cooperation on global issues.

Features of the 1979 Republican Constitution

The 1979 Republican Constitution introduced significant changes to the governance structure of Nigeria. Some key features of the 1979 Republican Constitution include:

1. Presidential System: The 1979 Constitution established a presidential system of government, with a President as the head of state and head of government. This system emphasized the separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
2. Fundamental Human Rights: The 1979 Constitution incorporated a Bill of Rights, which enshrined fundamental human rights and freedoms. These rights included freedom of expression, association, and religion, among others.
3. Federalism: The 1979 Constitution maintained the federal structure of Nigeria, with power shared between the central government and the states. This structure aimed to promote regional autonomy and facilitate the development of the various regions.
4. Checks and Balances: The 1979 Constitution introduced checks and balances mechanisms to prevent the abuse of power. This included the establishment of an independent judiciary and a bicameral legislature.

Criticisms of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution

The 1999 Nigerian Constitution has faced significant criticism since its adoption. Some of the key criticisms include:

1. Lack of Constitutional Conference: The 1999 Constitution was prepared by the outgoing military government of General Abdulsalam Abubakar without the input of a constitutional conference. This has led many Nigerians to view it as more of a military constitution than a civilian one.
2. Lack of Clarity on Traditional Rulers’ Roles: The constitution fails to define the roles of traditional rulers in government. This lack of clarity has created confusion and led to debates regarding the recognition of traditional rulers and their place within the governance structure.
3. Ambiguity in Local Government Functions: The constitution is not clear on the functions and creation of local governments. This ambiguity has caused conflicts between states and the federal government regarding the creation of local governments and their relationship with other tiers of government.
4. Centralization of Power: Critics argue that the 1999 Constitution centralizes power in the hands of the federal government, limiting the autonomy and decision-making powers of the states and local governments.

Pre-Colonial Administration in Nigeria

Pre-colonial administration in Nigeria had unique characteristics and structures. Some key features of pre-colonial administration include:

1. Village as the Highest Unit of Administration: The village was the highest administrative unit, with its own governing structure and leadership.
2. Village Assembly: The village assembly, known as Oha-na-eze or Umunna, played a significant role in decision-making and conflict resolution within the community.
3. Role of the Village Priest/Diviner: The village priest or diviner held religious and judicial powers and played a crucial role in maintaining order and resolving disputes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the WAEC GCE 2023 Government objectives and essay questions cover various topics related to political socialization, political participation, public corporations, foreign policy, nationalism, the United Nations Organization, constitutional features, and pre-colonial administration. It is crucial for candidates to study and understand these concepts to excel in the examination. By preparing thoroughly and utilizing the provided answers as a revision guide, candidates can confidently tackle the WAEC GCE 2023 Government paper.