NABTEB Government 2024 Theory — Question 8

Model answer

i. Decentralized authority: In pre-colonial Nigeria, political power was often decentralized, with local chiefs and village heads exercising authority over their respective areas. In contrast, modern Nigeria has a more centralized form of government with federal, state, and local levels of administration. ii. Participatory decision-making: Traditional systems often involved elders and community members in decision-making processes through councils and assemblies. Modern governance also aims for participatory decision-making through democratic elections, public consultations, and legislative bodies. iii. Checks and balances: Pre-colonial societies had informal checks and balances through the influence of elders, religious leaders, and secret societies. Modern Nigeria has formal structures for checks and balances, including the separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. iv. Representation and participation: Traditional governance systems allowed for representation through family heads and clan leaders, ensuring local participation. Modern Nigeria utilizes elected representatives in a multi-party system to ensure broader participation and representation at various levels of government. v. Rule of law: Customary laws and traditions governed pre-colonial societies, often upheld by elders and local leaders. Modern Nigeria follows a formal legal system based on the constitution, statutory laws, and judicial interpretations to ensure the rule of law. (Also acceptable: accountability, dispute resolution, system of selecting leaders, law and order, acceptable norms and customs, consensus building, swearing of oath of allegiance, tax regime, defence and security, public and voluntary service.)