Government 2, WASSCE (PC), 2016

Question 9

(a)        What is concurrent list in federalism?

  (b)        Highlight four problems confronting Nigerian federalism.

Observation

This was an unpopular question. The performance of the candidates who answered it was below average. However, some candidates did not score good marks because of skimpy answers in part ‘b’. The candidates were expected to provide the following answers to the question:

 (a)       

(i)         It is a list that contains roles, powers and functions meant to be performed by both the central and the component units.

(b)       

(i)         Problem of revenue allocation – Principles of derivation, needs and national interest have not been accepted by most Nigerians.
(ii)        Minority problems – Most minority ethnic groups still entertain fears of domination by the majority groups/fragile unity.
(iii)       Incessant demands for creation of states.
(iv)       Problem of uneven development.
(v)        Over concentration of power in the central government.
(vi)       Inter-ethnic rivalry – Different ethnic groups find it difficult to co-exist with others.
(vii)      Fear of secession among different ethnic groups.
(viii)     Problem of federal character which places emphasis on geographical spread rather than merit.
(ix)       The problem of power sharing i.e. rotational presidency.
(x)        Constant boundary disputes between and among component units.
(xi)       Problems of regional parties.
(xii)      Politicization of laudable policies.