Question 9
What mechanisms should be put in place to forestall military intervention in politics?
Observation
This was a popular question. The performance of the candidates who answered it was good as they understood its demands. However, some candidates did not score good marks because of skimpy answers. The candidates were expected to provide the following answers to the question:
(i) The existence and promotion of democratically elected government.
(ii) Promotion of good governance.
(iii) Eradication of corruption and abuse of office.
(iv) Avoidance of electoral malpractice by encouraging free and fair elections.
(v) Encouraging national unity by suppressing tribalism and nepotism.
(vi) Enhanced conditions of service for the military.
(vii) Proper civic education for the armed forces on their role/Enlightenment for military on their roles.
(viii) Promotion of accountability and transparency in governance.
(ix) Appeal to civilian administration to conform to the constitutional tenure of office.
(x) Equitable distribution of both human and natural resources.
(xi) Entrenchment of provisions in the constitution to forestall or discourage military intervention in politics.
(xii) Non recognition of military governments by the international community or organizations, e.g. UNO, AU, ECOWAS, Commonwealth etc.
(xiii) Responsive and responsible/good leadership.
(xiv) Imposition of sanctions by the international community.
(xv) Avoidance of political unrest/rivalry among politicians.
(xvi) Maintenance of cordial relationship among politicians.
(xvii) Civil disobedience/resistance by the populace and interest groups.