Observation

A large percentage of candidates performed above average in this question. In the (a) part, candidates performed credibly well as they were able to define law and order as well as give types of constituted authority. The challenge candidates encountered was in the (c) part as they could barely point out the importance of constituted authority to the society. Points expected of candidates include;

B. Types of constituted authority

• Traditional authority: These are authority figures that derive their positions, roles and legitimacy from immemorial customs and traditions of their society or group.
• Legal constituted/rational-legal/governmental authority: These are authority figures that derive their positions, roles and legitimacy from the fundamental laws, principles, rules and regulations that govern their society or groups.
• Charismatic authority: These are authority figures that derive their authority, position, roles and legitimacy from their special God-given qualities and demonstration of heroism in their service to humanity in the society or group.
• Religious constituted authority: These are authority figures that derive their positions, roles and legitimacy from religious beliefs, practices, denominations or sect activities in the society. e.g the clergy such as Imams, Pastors, Reverend, Bishop, Pope, Ifa Priest, etc.
• Organizational constituted authority: These are authority figures established and vested with power and legitimacy to perform leadership/administrative roles at different levels or groups in the society.
  

C. Importance of constituted authority to the society

• It provides leadership in society.
• It instils discipline and good morals in society.
• It promotes consensus building/unity among the people in society.
• It promotes law and order/smooth running of the society/protection of lives and property.
• It protects the interest of the people and their general welfare.
• It promotes peaceful settlement of conflicts.
• It promotes good interpersonal, inter-group/international human relations.
• It assists in the execution of developmental programmes/projects/activities for the overall development of the society.