Observation

The question was quite unpopular. The very few candidates that attempted it showed a lack of understanding of the ideas of Nigerian society and political process. It was difficult for them therefore to see how the active participation of citizens in the latter makes the society benefits. So, those who attempted it wrote a similar pattern of answers that attracted very low marks. The candidates were expected to provide the following answers to the question:

(i)         Legitimacy of elected governments:
If citizens actively participate in electoral process, society will have an elected legitimate government.

 

(ii)        National development: 
There will be rapid socio-economic development if citizens participate in the electoral/political process.

 

(iii)       Political stability:
This ensures law and order for economic and political development in the society.

 

(iv)       Responsible and responsive government:
The society will elect or get a government that is receptive to the people’s concerns, needs and aspirations.

 

(v)        Political awareness:
When citizens participate in the electoral/political process, they will become politically conscious, enjoy their rights and perform corresponding duties and obligations to the society.

 

(vi)       Credible elections:
When citizens actively participate in the electoral/political process it will confer credibility on the process.

 

(vii)      Peaceful order of succession:
peaceful transition is ensured from one regime to another.

 

(viii)     Peace and harmony:
When citizens actively participate in the political process they will enjoy peace and harmony without much agitation.

 

(ix)       Accountability, transparency, due process and probity:
Active participation of citizens in the political process ensures accountability, transparency, due process and probity in governance for the common good of the society.

 

 

(x)        Conducive environment for business/investment: 
Active participation of the people in government creates environment conducive for business and other investment activities to thrive in the society for improved standard of living.

 

(xi)       Military incursion into politics will be unthinkable:
Active participation of citizens in the political process prevents military intervention and other violent means of changing government.

(xii)      Good governance:
Popular participation of citizens in government ensures good governance and builds confidence in citizens.

 

(xiii)     Independent/impartial judiciary and justice:
Popular participation of the people in government protects the independence of the judiciary and ensures impartiality of judges in the dispensation of justice for the common good of the society.

 

(xiv)     International recognition and respect: Active participation of the people in the political process earns the government and people of the State international recognition and respect.