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Government SSS1 First Term
Government SSS 1 First Term
WEEK 1

Meaning of Government

Performance Objectives

Student should be able to explain:

i. Government as an institution of state.

ii. Government as a process or act of governing.
iii. Government as an academic field of study

Government as an Institution

Government as an institution of the state may be defined as a machinery

established by the state to organize the state, manage its affairs and
administer its functions and duties. The need for government come up as a
result of people living together, interacting and working together as forming
different associations.

Government as an Institution of the state has three organs which are:

i. The Executive: This is concerned with policy formulation and

implementation.

ii. The Legislature: This involves in law-making.

iii. The judiciary: This concentrates mainly in the interpretation of the law.

Government as a Process or the Act of Governing.

Government is referred to as an act of governing because it is a body vested

with the supreme power of the affairs of a state. It is also a body vested with
the power of maintaining peace and security by putting in place machinery for
that purpose.

Government as an Academic Field of Study

This involves the study of political institutions in the state, ideas, values and
doctrines about politics, the view of political thinkers on what constitutes the
welfare of the people.
Branches of Government as an Academic Field of study are as follows:

i.Public Administration: This deals with human management in government

establishments or public affairs.

ii. International Relations: This area deals with diplomacy and external
relations with other countries.

iii. Political Thought/Theories: This has to do with early political thinkers.

iv. Political economy: This deals with the fiscal and monetary policies of a
country.

v. Comparative politics: This deals with comparative analysis of government of

other countries.

Characteristic of Government

1. Political power

This is possessed by the government with the people's will to obey laws and
policies made by the state.

2. Work-force

The Civil service possesses adequate personnel for policy-making and

implementation, interpretation and punishment of offenders.

3. Law

This is a guide to the activities, beliefs and behaviour of the citizens.

4. Revenue

Government needs enough revenue for the enormous (huge or massive) task
facing it.

5. Welfare services

Provision of some essential services e.g. water, electricity, housing etc should
be made by the government to improve people's well- being.

6. People's legitimate support

Government should be able to earn legitimate support from people.

Functions of Government
1. Law-making

Government is responsible for making laws ina country.

2. Maintenance of law and order

This function is usually performed by government agencies like the police e.t c

3. Provision of Social amenities

Amenities like electricity, water, health centre etc; are provided by the
government.

4. Protection of lives and properties

Government is also responsible for this function.

5. Provision of employment

Job is also provided for the citizens by the government.

6. Formulation and implementation of policies

These are carried out to ensure the well-being of the people. The executive
arm of government performs this function.

7. Administration of justice

This is the responsibility of the judiciary. It settles disputes between individuals

and between individuals and government.
Government SSS 1 First Term
WEEK 2

Basic Concepts of Government

Performance Objectives

Student should be able to explain:

i. Meaning of Power.
ii. Authority.
iii. Legitimacy.
iv. Sovereignty.

Power
Power is the capacity to affect another's behaviour by the threat of
sanction. The sanctions may be negative or positive.

Forms of Power

1. Political power

The elected President or Prime Minister of a state possesses political

power. It is the power derived from the people and the constitution.

2. Economic power

An individual in possession of economic resources could use such to

influence issues in a state.

3. Military power

The armed forces, army, navy and airforce control the instruments of
violence in a country. These instruments can easily be manipulated to
overthrow a civilian government and for the defence of the state against
external aggression.

4. Physical power

It is the application of force in compelling obedience. The outcome of

this application could bring discomfort or even disastrous end.

Authority

Authority refers to the formal or legal right to make and enforce laws or
policies which the citizens obey.

Sources of Political Authority

The following are the sources of political authority

1. Traditional authority

This is from the customs and traditions of the people. Most of the
traditional rulers in Nigeria,e.g. Obas, Emirs, Olus and other titles derive
their powers from their customs and traditions which are mostly
hereditary.

2. Constitution (Legal Authority)

The source of this authority is mostly the constitution of a given country.

For example, the president elected by the people has a legal authority.

3. Charismatic authority

This is the authority derived from the special talent and ability of an
individual to carry people along as a leader. For example NELSON
MANDELA.

4. Consent of the people

People may decide to invest a certain person with authority.

Types of Authority

1. De-Jure Authority

2. De- Facto Authority.

De-Jure Authority

This can be defined as the right to issue instructions and to have them
obeyed.

De- Facto Authority

This is a situation where one person acknowledges another as being

entitled to command him.

Difference Between Power and Authority

1. Power is the capacity to affect another's behaviour by the use of

threat of some form of sanction. While the Authority is formal or legal
right to make and enforce laws or policies.

2. Power could be legitimate or illegitimate, While Authority is based on

acceptance and mostly legitimate.

3. Authority can be legitimately delegated, while power cannot be

delegated.

4. Authority is concerned with the formal position, while power does not
concern formal position or rank.

Legitimacy

Legitimacy is a political idea or concept which refers to the acceptance

and recognition by the citizens of a country, the rights of their rulers to
govern.

Factors that determine Legitimacy

1. Good / Reliable leadership

2. Good government

3. Legitimacy through periodic elections

4. Customs and traditions

5. Foreign policy objectives

6. Wider scope of political participation

7. Charisma of the leaders

8. Open- door administration administration

Sovereignty

Sovereignty means the supreme power and authority of the state over
the citizens. The idea of sovereignty originated from Jean Bodin (1530-
1590), a French political thinker and philosopher.

Characteristic of Sovereignty

1. Indivisibility

Sovereignty cannot be divided, through government can delegate power

to certain agencies.

2. Absoluteness

The powers of a sovereign state cannot be restricted.

3. Performance

As long as the state exists, sovereignty continues without interruption

and it is a permanent attribute of the state which does not change.

4. Comprehensiveness

The powers exercised by the government are wide and encompassing

(within a circle). These powers are binding on all.

5. Independence if foreign Control

A sovereign state is independent of foreign control.

Types of Sovereignty

1. Legal sovereignty

These are the bodies that make laws and enforce the same laws in the
state are the legal sovereign. For example, Parliament.

2. Political or popular sovereignty

This refers to that body which is supreme in a state, the will which is
ultimately obeyed by the citizens of the state.

3. Defacto sovereignty

This refers to the body or group of people who use force to make
citizens obey their will, after overthrowing the legitimate sovereign of
the state through invasion or revolution, e.g the military in government.

4. De jure sovereignty.

This type of sovereign rule is based on law and application as opposed

to physical exercise or use if force.

5. Internal sovereignty.

This refers to supreme power the state has to make and enforce laws
within its area of authority.

6. External sovereignty.

The power of the state to decide on how to relate with other nations of
the world on an equal basis.

Limitations to the Sovereignty of a state

1. The constitution

2. The electorate

3. Customs and Traditions

4. Public Opinion

5. Inter-dependence of state
6. Dominance of powerful states

7. International Organisations e.g U.N.O, A.U and ECOWAS

8. Diplomatic immunity.
Government SSS 1 First Term
WEEK 3

Basic Concept Continuation - Democracy.

Performance Objectives

Student should be able to explain:

i. Meaning of democracy.

ii. Political culture

iii. Political socialization

Democracy

Democracy is defined as a form of government in which the people

exercise their governing power either directly or through representatives
periodically elected by them.

Features or Characteristics of Democracy

1. Political liberty

2. Value of individual personality

3. Free association and groups

4. Political parties

5. Separation of powers

Types of Democracy

1. Direct democracy

It refers to an idea of government by which all citizens meet together,

periodically, to discuss issues affecting the community.

2. Indirect democracy
This is a type of democracy in which citizens are qualified to choose
their representatives to rule on their behalf.

Merit of Democracy

1. Free choice of leaders

2. Equal opportunity

3. Legitimacy

4. Equality of individual

5. Participation of citizens in government affairs.

Demerits of Democracy

1. Expensive to operate

2. Political education is not assured

3. It leads to slow decision making

4. Incompetent people may be in government

5. Self-interest accomplishment

Conditions necessary for a successful operation of democracy.

1. Good government

2. Enlightenment of electorate

3. Openness of government operations

4. Supremacy of the constitution

5. People's willingness

Political Culture

Political culture refers to the way the members of a political community

behave in their political activities, e.g.voting.

Components of Political Culture

1. Cognitive orientation: This is the beliefs of the people about the

political system involving the government and their roles.
2. Evaluative orientation

This is all about the extent to which people can evaluate or assess the
activities of those in power.

3. Affective orientation

This is the feelings, support and loyalty of the people towards the
activities and performance of the government.

Determinants of Political Culture

1. Historical development.

2. The impact of European colonial domination.

3. Ethnic differences

4. Instability

5. Socio-economic structure

6. Industrialized society.

Political Socialization

Political Socialization is defined as the process of political learning from

childhood to adulthood

Agents of Political Socialization

1. Family unit

The child's knowledge and experience of political activities start at the

family unit.

2. The Peer group

The group one (a person) moves with helps to dictate or influence one's
(person's) political emotions.

3. Institution of learning

Schools, colleges and other educational institutions provide an avenue

for political talks, debates and discussions which are basic socialising
mechanism.
4. Social/Religious institutions

Members of the public become politically socialised through the

arguments and discussions made by social clubs and religious centres.

5. The mass media

Members of the public are politically socialised while reading

newspapers, listening to radio and watching television about political
issues.

6. Political parties

Political parties educate their members and other people through their
manifesto, campaign, rallies etc. thereby stimulating people's political
awareness.

7. Pressure groups

Pressure groups equally educate their members and even the public
through conference, seminars etc. especially, in the areas of political and
civil rights.
Government SSS 1 First Term
WEEK 4

Basic concepts continued – Political Participation,

Communalism, Feudalism

Performance Objectives

Student should be able to explain:

1. Political participation.

2. Communalism.

3. Feudalism

Political Participation

This is the process whereby individuals get themselves involved in the

political activities and the decision- making of their country.

Forms of Political Participation

1. Voting in elections.

2. Holding of public offices.

3. Protest and demonstration.

4. Partial political participation

5. Supporting candidates for elective posts.

6. Observatory political participation.

7. Belonging to a political party.

The purpose of Political Participation

1. Decision making

2. Failure of past governments

3. Correction of the ills in the society.

4. Avenue for money making

5. Respect for prestige

6. Occupation

7. Management of the nation's resources

Factors affecting Political Participation

1. Lack of trust.

2. Fear of intimidation.

3. Poverty.

4. Apathy or lack of interest.

5. Frequent removal of elected governments.

Communalism

Communalism is a social, political and economic arrangement in which

people live in group as families sharing resources and responsibilities for
the benefits of everybody.
Features of Communalism

1. Collective ownership

2. Community development

3. Decision making is done by individuals.

4. Collective ownership landed property.

5. No room for exploitation.

6. Existence of relationship

7. Collectively-owned institutions

8. Village setting example.

Feudalism

Feudalism can be defined as the identification of landed property with

sovereignty, which becomes a private hereditary possession and an
asset to the family. Feudalism has its origin in medieval Europe between
the 11th and 13th centuries.

Features of Feudalism

1. Holding of land: Vassals hold land in trust for the lords.

2. Bond bets the lords and the vassal: There was evidence of a close
personal bond between lords and the Vassal.

3. Land control: Ownership and control of land is vested in the king,

monarch and emperor

4. The king or monarch: This is the law-maker, commander and judge

over his vassals or serfs.

5. Sovereignty: This is the right of sovereignty which the holder of an

estate had over those living in it.

6. Fife or Feud: An estate of this nature, whether big or small was called
a fief or feud, hence the propelled feudalism.

7. Guilty of treason: If a vassal was guilty of treason, the lord might

claim his possession by for failure.
8. Death of a vassal: If a vassal died without heirs, his property will be
reverted to the lord.

Merits of Feudalism

1. Order and personal loyalty.

2. Framework of order.

3. Self- reliance

4. Spirit of liberty.

Demerits of Feudalism

1. Inability to form a strong national government.

2. Disintegration of state.

3. Disobedience to common law.

4. Weak central government

5. Confusion of public and primary rights

6. It encourages injustice

7. Feudalism encouraged domination.

8. The system was undemocratic.

Government S.S.S.1 First Term
WEEK 5

Meaning of Capitalism and Socialism

Performance Objectives

Student should be able to:

1. Explain the meaning of Capitalism and Socialism.

2. State the difference between Capitalism and Socialism.

Capitalism
The term Capitalism is the economic system in which the means of production,
exchange and distribution of goods and services lies in the hands of private persons,
where government's participation is very low.

Characteristics of Capitalism

The following are the characteristics of Capitalism:

1. Means of production lies in the hands of private individuals.

2. Many producers are involved.

3. Individual source for capital to produce.

4. Choices of commodities are made by the people.

5. It is highly specialised system coupled with a high degree of

efficiency.

Advantages of Capitalism

1. It encourages competition in the market.

2. Specialization and hard work is encouraged.

3. It develops the economy through different means of production.

Disadvantages of Capitalism

1. The system is exploitative

2. Producers make excessive profits to the detriment of the consumer.

3. There is unhealthy rivalry among producers of different or the same

products in a capitalist system.

Socialism
The term Socialism is a social, political and economic system in which the state owns
and controls the means of production, exchange and distribution of goods and
services with the aim of equal distribution of nation's wealth.

Characteristics of Socialism

1. There is state ownership and control of the means of production.

2. There is an equal distribution of the nation's wealth.

3. There is gainful employment for all citizens.

4. Price of all state-produced goods and services are uniformed.

5. There is absent of competition in the area of production and price.

Advantages of Socialism

1. There is no fear of undue loss of job.

2. The tendency to exploit people is eliminated in the system.

3. There is no class distinction in the system.

4. There is no unhealthy rivalry in the area of production

Disadvantages of Socialism

1. The absence of competition has virtually affected the standard of

goods produced due to low quality.

2. Control of the economy lies in the hands of the government which

gives no room for personal initiatives.

3. The economy experience stunted growth due to one channel of

production.

4. There is an absence of choice of commodity for people.

Differences Between Capitalism and Socialism

Capitalism Socialism

1. The economy is in the hands of private The state controls the economy.
individuals

2. Political power is highly decentralised. Political power is highly centralised.

3. The economy of the state is The economy of the state is

not centrally organised. centrally organised.
4. The market is open and competitive. The market is not open, it is a state
5. Economic power determines political monopoly.
power. Political power is used to control and
shape economic power.

Government S.S.S.1 First Term

WEEK 6

Meaning and History of Communism, Fascism and

Totalitarianism.

Performance Objectives

Student should be able to:

1. Explain the meaning of Communism, Fascism, and Totalitarianism.

2. list their characteristics.

Communism

The term Communism is derived from Latin word communis meaning

"common, universal", is a philosophical, social, political, and economic
system in which the community through common ownership collectively
controls all the means of production of goods and services, exchange,
and distribution. E.g North Korea, North Vietnam, Cuba, China, etc are
believed to be a communist state.

Fascism

The term Fascism was an Italian term fascism which is derived from
fascio meaning "a bundle of sticks", ultimately from Latin word fasces.
This was the name given to political organizations in Italy known as
Fasci.

Fascism is a form of government headed by a dictator, in which the

government has total control over all activities in the state and personal
liberties of the people are denied, example is Italy under Benito
Mussolini who first introduced fascism.

Totalitarianism

The term Totalitarianism is derived from the Italian word "totalita"

meaning totality, is a form of government in which the state has
absolute control of everything, including all aspects of the citizen's life.
Laws are seen as a product of the will of the rulers. A good example
was Adolf Hitler of Germany.

Features or Characteristics of Communism

1. Means of production are collectively controlled.

2. The use of force is applied in achieving its goals.

3. It's a one-party system operation.

4. Leaders are dictator.

5. No room for opposition of any kind.

6. Its economy planning is highly centralized.

7. There is an equal distribution of the nation's wealth among citizens.

8. It is a village setting example

Features or Characteristics of Fascism

1. Supremacy of the leader.

2. The government has total control over all aspects of citizen's life.

3. The system encourages limited political participation.

4. The state economy is highly centralized.

5. The government controls the mass media.

Features Or Characteristics Of Totalitarianism

1. There is an absence of constitution.

2. The government is headed by a dictator.

3. Individual freedom and liberty are denied.

4. It operates one-party system.

5. The government has absolute control of the mass media.

6. It has a highly centralized economy.

Test: Government SSS1 First Term Mid-Term Assessment

1. Government as __________ involves the study of political institutions in the state, ideas, values
and doctrines about politics, the view of political thinkers on what constitutes the welfare of the
people.?

a. A field of study

b. A planning

c. An academic field of study

d. An institution

2. Government as_____________ of the state may be defined as a machinery established by the

state to organize the state, manage its affairs and administer its functions and duties.?

a. A process of governing

b. A field of study

c. A planning

d. An institution

3. ____________ is possessed by the government with the people's will to obey laws and policies
made by the state.?

a. Political Party

b. Political Policy

c. Political Possession

d. Political Power

4. Government as ________ is referred to as an act of governing because it is a body vested with the
supreme power of the affairs of a state.?

a. A process of governing

b. A field of study

c. A planning

d. An institution

5. ________ is the capacity to affect another's behaviour by the threat of sanction. The sanctions may
be negative or positive.?

a. Power

b. Authority

c. Legitimacy

d. Sovereignty

6. Government is responsible for making laws ina country.

a. Yes

b. No

7. _________means the supreme power and authority of the state over the citizens.

a. Power

b. Authority

c. Legitimacy

d. Sovereignty

8. ____________refers to the formal or legal right to make and enforce laws or policies which the
citizens obey.?

a. Power

b. Authority

c. Legitimacy

d. Sovereignty

9. ___________ is a political idea or concept which refers to the acceptance and recognition by the
citizens of a country, the rights of the their rulers to govern.?

a. Power

b. Authority

c. Legitimacy

d. Sovereignty

10. Public opinion limit sovereignty of a state?

a. True

b. False

11. Pressure groups equally educate their members and even the public through conferences,
seminars, etc. especially, in the areas of political and civil rights.

a. Pressure group

b. Pressure party

c. Pressure union

d. Pressure society

12. ____________ is the first agent of political socialisation?

a. Pressure group

b. Family

c. Peer pressure
d. Religious gathering

13. ___________ is defined as the process of political learning from childhood to adulthood?

a. Political socialization

b. Political culture

c. Political party

d. Political association

14. Historical development determine___________?

a. Political socialization

b. Political culture

c. Political party

d. Political association

15. _______ refers to the way the members of a political community behave in their political activities,
e.g.voting.

a. Political socialization

b. Political culture

c. Political party

d. Political association

16. ______________ is a social, political and economic arrangement in which people live in group as
families sharing resources and responsibilities for the benefits of everybody.?

a. Communism

b. Communalism

c. Feudalism

d. Political participation

17. This is the process whereby individuals get themselves involved in the political activities and the
decision- making of their country.?

a. Communism

b. Communalism

c. Feudalism

d. Political participation

18. __________ has its origin in medieval Europe between the 11th and 13th centuries.?

a. Communism
b. Communalism

c. Feudalism

d. Political participation

19. __________ can be defined as the identification of landed property with sovereignty, which
becomes a private hereditary possession and an asset

a. Communism

b. Communalism

c. Feudalism

d. Political participation

20. _________ is self reliance as an advantage?

a. Communism

b. Communalism

c. Feudalism

d. Political participation

21. Means of production in capitalism lies in the hands of ________?

a. Group of people

b. Private individual

c. Civil servant

d. Government

22. Means of production in socialism lies in the hands of_________?

a. Private individual

b. Community

c. Government

d. Dolorem error qui repellendus ab aliquam.?

23. Absence of choice is one of the advantages of socialism?

a. True

b. False

c. Not sure

d. Blank

24. Capitalism is an open market?

a. False
b. Unknown

c. True

d. Blank

25. _____ is where political power is highly decentralised?

a. Decentralized economy

b. Socialism

c. Capitalism

d. Communalism

26. A good example that practice Totalitarianism is________?

a. Adolf Hitler of Germany

b. Adolf Hitler of Columbia

c. Adolf Hitler of Cherokee

d. Adolf Hitler of Greece

27. _________is derived from the Latin word "communis" ?

a. Communalism

b. Communism

c. Communicationalism

d. Commoner

28. Supremacy of leader, is a feature of ______?

a. Communism

b. Totalitarianism

c. Fascism

d. Feudalism

29. The only common feature of Communism, Fascism and Totalitarianism is _______?

a. Superlative being

b. Common development

c. No room for opposition of any kind

d. A highly centralised economy

30. Benito Mussolini introduced_____ ?

a. Communism
b. Totalitarianism

c. Fascism

d. Popularism

Government SSS 1 First Term

WEEK 7

Types and Characteristics of Government

Performance Objectives

Student should be able to explain:

i. Meaning of Unitary government.

ii. Characteristics.

iii. Advantages and disadvantages

Unitary System of government

Unitary government may be defined as the type of government in which

all powers and authorities of a state are concentrated in a central
government.

Characteristics of Unitary government

1. Delegation of function is done by the central government

2. Constitution used is not rigid

3. Source of power is the central government

4. Strong central government

5. No constitutional division of power

6. The system is easy to practice in a small country.

Advantages of Unitary State

1. Less cost of running

2. Quick action
3. Flexible constitution

4. Promotion of strong government

5. No conflict or contribution of authority

6. Unity

Disadvantages of Unitary government

1. Poor attention to the local areas

2. Slow in development

3. Unemployment

4. One centre of decision making

5. Poor representation in government

6. Minorities could be oppressed.

Government SSS 1 First Term
WEEK 8

Types and characteristics of Government (Contd.)

Performance Objectives

Student should be able to explain:

i. Parliamentary System of Government.

ii. Presidential System of Government.

iii. Comparison of the parliamentary system of government

and presidential systems of government

Parliamentary System of government

This is defined as a system of government in which the head of state is distinct

from the government. The head of state is the maybe the Queen/ President
and the head of government is the Prime minister.

Characteristics of the Parliamentary System of government

1. The head of state is different from the head of government.

2. The prime minister runs the affairs of government with the ministers

3. There is collective responsibility

4. The head of state is the Queen/President.

5. The head of government is the prime minister.

Collective responsibility

This is a feature of the parliamentary system of government that commits all

members of the cabinet to be responsible for one voice decision. When
cabinet (ministers) meets in the private for a decision to be taken, it will not be
published. But such decisions are made plain on the action of the government.
However, all members of the cabinet are collectively responsible for decisions
made. This is part of the 'doctrine of collective responsibility', the policies of
every department affect one another.

Merits of Parliamentary System of government

1. Members of Parliament/Cabinet take joint decision and they are collectively

responsible for all action taken.

2. Mutual understanding exists between the legislature and the executive.

3. Close monitoring on the activities of the ruling party by the opposition party
in parliament is allowed.

4. Decision taken are faster because members of the executive are equally
members of the legislature.

5. Fusion of power in this system has helped to reduce conflict among the
organs.

Demerits of a cabinet system of government

1. Removal of the executive from office occurs anytime the legislature passes a
vote of no confidence in the executive.

2. In this system, the prime minister is appointed by the head of state and this
could give room for manipulation.

3. Since ministers are collectively responsible for government policies, the poor
performance of a minister can cause the fall of the government.
4. Fusion of power in this system negate separation of powers that encourage
check and balance.

5. The system is capable of causing disaffection between the head of state and
head of government. i.e head of state may refuse to appoint a prime minister
after a general election.

Presidential System of government

This is defined as a system in which the head of state of a Country/Nation is

also the head of government and all executive powers are vested in one
person with the title of the executive president. Nigeria first experience this
system of government during the second republic of 1979/1983, with
president Shehu Shagari.

Characteristics of Presidential System of government

1. The executive president serves as both the head of state and the head of
government in the system.

2. The president can dismiss members of his cabinet or even reshuffle the
entire cabinet.

3. There is a separation of power for the three organs of government.

4. The parliament is bicameral, i.e the senate and the house of representatives.

5. The constitution is supreme in the system and must be obeyed and

respected by all authorities and persons.

6. Fixed-term of four years in the office, and the chance for a second term
practice in the system.

Merits of Presidential system of government

1. The president has a free hand as an advantage, when appointing his

ministers and other political appointees.

2. The president is properly elected.

3. Powers are distinctly separated and it enhances the effective performance

of each organ of government.

4. Ministers of this system of government have enough time to attend to their

duties, because they only belong to the executive.
5. The presidential system is democratic.

Demerits of Presidential system of government

1. Separation of powers in the system can cause a delay in the execution of

some government programmes.

2. The president can misuse or even abuse the powers given to him to veto
bills.

3. The system is costly to operate because there are too many duplications of
function both in the executive and legislature.

4. There is no security of tenure for ministers in the system because they are
chosen by the president and can be removed at any time.

5. Impeachment process of the president may be difficult, since the president

is the head of the executive.

The principle of Individual responsibility

It is a popular principle in a presidential system of government, where a

minister appointed by the president is individually held responsible for any
decision made or taken in his department or ministry. Therefore the minister
has both constitutional and political responsibilities for the department he or
she is in charge of.

Differences between Parliamentary and Presidential system of government

1. In the presidential system, the executive president is both head of state and
government. While in a parliamentary system, the Queen/President is the
head of state and the prime minister is head of government.

2. People elect the executive president through popular ballot in presidential

system. While the leader of the party that won the election is appointed as the
prime minister in a parliamentary system.

3. In the presidential system, the principle of separation of powers is more

pronounced. While the principle of separation of powers is not well
pronounced in a parliamentary system.

4. Individual responsibility of ministers is applicable in the presidential system.

While collective responsibility of minister is applicable in the parliamentary
system.
5. There are effective checks and balances among the three organs of
government in the presidential system. While in parliament system, powers
are fused and so there is no effective checks and balances among the organs of
government.
Government SSS 1 First Term
WEEK 9

Types of Government (Contd)

Performance Objectives

Student should be able to explain:

i. Confederal System of Government.

ii. Monarchy

iii. Comparison of Federalism and Confederalism

Confederalism

Confederation may be defined as a league of sovereign states with loose

political arrangement in which autonomous states come together to form a
union. It is also seen as a voluntary association of sovereign states with a
recognized authority in certain matters affecting the whole and especially in
respect of external relations and with a common course of actions in specific
areas like foreign affairs, defence, currency etc.

Features of Confederalism

1. Sovereign states come together to form a confederation.

2. No effective executive authority

3. No national armed force

4. Member states have separate diplomatic representation.

5. Equal status and the right to secession from the confederation is given to
members.

6. Membership of the union is voluntary.

7. Unstable political system as a result of a session of members from the union.

Merits of Confederalism

1. Mutual benefit accruing to members state.

2. The union is voluntary

3. Member states have control over their internal affairs.

4. Equal status and right is given to members.

5. Confederalism encourages expansion of the market.

6. Unity of state occurs.

Demerits of Confederalism

1. There is political instability as a result of a loose union.

2. No effective central authority.

3. Breaking of the union occurs as a result of a session of members.

4. There is no spirit of nationality.

5. National armed forces are absent.

6. There is a delay in effecting issues.

Differences between Federalism and Confederalism

1. Federalism has a strong centre. While Confederalism has a weak centre.

2. The centre of federalism is more powerful than its component units. While
the states (countries) making up the confederation are more powerful than the
centre.

3. The constitution for federation is supreme, written and rigid. While

confederation has no constitution, if any, it is flexible.

4. The central government of the federation controls the armed forces. While
component states of confederation still maintain their separate military
establishments.

5. Federalism is a stable political system. While Confederalism system is fragile

and not stable.

6. Sovereignty of the federation rests with the central government. While

sovereignty of the confederation is with the component states.

Monarchy

This is defined as a type of government running by one individual, and this may
be a King or Queen or emperor. However, it should be noted that hereditary
monarchy is the common type.

Forms of Monarchy

1. Constitutional monarchy

This form of monarchy has its power regulated by the constitution. The
monarch can put to effect only those laws which are agreed to by elected
parliament.

2. Absolute monarchy

This is when there is no established constitutional authority to check the Kings'

power. The King rules with absolute power.

Merits of Monarchy

1. Obedience to the King is a natural obligation whether with the constitution

or not.

2. It is best adapted for emergency

3. Unity and orderliness is achieved

4. The King serves as the protector to the citizens.

5. Monarchy harmonize different interests

Demerits of Monarchy

1. Monarchy provides bad rulers

2. The absolute power of a monarch keeps the people weak.

Government SSS 1 First Term
WEEK 10

Organs of Government

Performance Objectives
Student should be able to explain:

i. Meaning of Legislative.

ii. Types of Legislature.

iii. Functions of legislature

Meaning of Legislature

This is the centre of discussions about policies, programs, ideas and the place
where important decisions are made. This comprises of senators and
representatives.

Types of Legislature

1. Bicameral Legislature

This is defined as a process or act of carrying out legislative functions by the

two chambers in a country. These are the lower chamber and the upper
chamber.

2. Unicameral Legislature

This is the existence of one legislative chamber in a country.

Functions of the Legislature

1. Lawmaking

2. Financial control

3. Powers of investigation

4. Amending the constitution

5. Power of impFunctions
Government SSS 1 First Term
WEEK 11

Organs of Government (Contd)

Performance Objectives

Student should be able to explain:

i. Meaning of Executive.

ii. Types.

iii. Functions

Meaning of Executive

This arm of government is the organ responsible for policymaking and

implementation of policies and laws made in the country. The executive arm of
government comprises of President, prime minister, governors of states,
ministers, the civil service, the armed forces, the police, etc.

Types of Executives

i. Single executive

This is the control of the executive rests with one individual. For example, the
president of the U.S.A has his ministers named by him and dependent on him,
they are his advisers and agents, not his colleagues.

ii. Plural executives

This is the type of executive that have federal council with the chairman and
the power is exercised as usual. Other members of the council are his
colleagues, not agents or advisers.

iii. Parliamentary executives

This is established on the principle of fusion of powers between the legislature

and the executive. In countries where the leadership of the government is
comprised as the ruling party or coalition in parliament, the parliamentary
executive are the leaders selected from the ruling party and create a policy for
government.

iv. Non-parliamentary executive

This is a symbolic leader of a state who performs a representative and civic

role but does not exercise executive or policymaking power.

Functions of the Executive

1. Policy formulation

2. Supervision
3. Appointment of top officials

4. Declaration of war

5. Representation of States in its relations with other countries.

6. Power of pardon

7. Preparation of budget

8. Maintenance of law and order

9. Signing of bills into law.

Government SSS 1 First Term
WEEK 12

Organs of Government (Judiciary)

Performance Objectives

Student should be able to explain:

i. Meaning of Judiciary.

ii. Functions of the Judiciary.

iii. Independence of the Judiciary

Judiciary

This constitutes the arm of government that interprets the law of the
state and applies the existing law to individual cases. In any modern
state, the liberty of individuals depends on the fairness of the court in
protecting against the tyranny of overzealous members of the
government. In Nigeria for example, the judiciary is made up of a large
number of courts, ranging from the supreme court, appeal court, high
court, down to magistrate and customary court.

Functions of Judiciary

1. Interpretation of law

2. Punishment of offenders

3. Prevention of wrongful acts

4. Settlement of dispute

5. Protection of the constitution

6. Guiding the rights of the citizens

The Independence of the Judiciary

An independent judiciary is free from the interference of the other two

arms of government, i.e the executive and legislature. Judges should be
free when interpreting the law of the land or country, they should carry
out their assignment without fear or any feeling of oppression and also
without favouritism.
Test: Government SSS1 First Term Final Assessment

1. Poor attention to the local areas is ________ of unitary government?

a. Disadvantage

b. Feature

c. Advantage

d. Problem

2. Unitary government may be defined as the type of government in which all powers and authorities
of a state are concentrated in a central government.?

a. False

b. Unknown

c. None

d. True

3. Collective responsibility is to ________ government.?

a. Presidential

b. Parliamentary

c. Unitary

d. Confederal

4. The principle of individual responsibility is to ________ government?

a. Presidential

b. Parliamentary

c. Unitary

d. Confederal
5. __________ is defined as a system in which the head of state of a Country/Nation is also the head
of government and all executive powers are vested in one person with the title of the executive
president.?

a. Presidential

b. Parliamentary

c. Unitary

d. Confederal

6. Poor representation in government is _____ of unitary government?

a. Disadvantage

b. Feature

c. Advantage

d. Problem

7. Source of power is central government, is said to be ______ of unitary government?

a. Disadvantage

b. Feature

c. Advantage

d. Problem

8. Quick action is unitary government advantage?

a. True

b. False

9. ___________ is defined as a system of government in which the head of state is distinct from the
government.

a. Presidential

b. Parliamentary

c. Unitary

d. confederal

10. In the presidential system, the executive president is both head of state and government. While in
a parliamentary system, the Queen/President is the head of state and the prime minister is head of
government.

a. True

b. False

11. Confederalism encourages expansion of market?

a. Yes

b. No

12. ________ monarchy have its power regulated by the constitution?

a. Constitutional

b. Unconstitutional

c. Absolute

d. Legal

13. ________ defined as a type of government running by one individual, and this may be a King or
Queen or emperor.?

a. Oligarchy

b. Monarchy

c. Oligopochy

d. Authogachy

14. __________ monarchy is when there is no established constitutional authority to check the Kings'
power.?

a. Constitutional

b. Unconstitutional

c. Absolute

d. Legal

15. Equal status and right is given to members. This is a statement for Confederalism?

a. True

b. False

16. The existence of one legislative chamber in a country is called?

a. Bicameral

b. Duocameral

c. Unicameral

d. One-cameral

17. ________ is the centre of discussions about policies, programs, ideas and the place where
important decisions are made?

a. Legitimacy

b. Legislature

c. Legal room
d. Executive room

18. The existence of two legislative chambers in a country is called?

a. Bicameral

b. Duocameral

c. Unicameral

d. One-cameral

19. Lower chamber is house of Senate?

a. True

b. False

20. Upper chamber is the house of representative?

a. True

b. False

21. ___________ is the control of the executive rests with one individual?

a. Single executive

b. Plural executive

c. Parliamentary executive

d. Non-parliamentary executive

22. _________ is a symbolic leader of a state who performs a representative and civic role but does
not exercise executive or policymaking power.

a. single executive

b. plural executive

c. parliamentary executive

d. non-parliamentary executive

23. _______ is the type of executive that have federal council with the chairman and the power is
exercised as usual. Other members of the council are his colleagues, not agents or advisers.

a. single executive

b. plural executive

c. non-parliamentary executive

d. parliamentary executive

24. Maintenance of law and order is one of the functions of the executive?

a. True
b. False

25. _______ is established on the principle of fusion of powers between the legislature and the
executive?

a. Single executive

b. Plural executive

c. Parliamentary executive

d. Non-parliamentary executive

26. Judges should be free when interpreting the law of the land or country?

a. True

b. False

27. Judiciary is made up of a large number of courts?

a. True

b. False

28. The only arm of government that must not depend on another is?

a. Executive

b. Legislature

c. Judiciary

d. Chamber

29. The Judiciary arrest offenders?

a. Yes

b. No

30. The executive and legislature interfere in judicial activities?

a. True

b. False

31. ______________ was revised through constitutional conferences of 1953 and 1954 in Lagos for
Lyttleton Constitution.

a. Lyttleton Constitution

b. Macpherson Constitution

c. Richard Constitution

d. Clifford Constitution

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