SS1 GOVERNMENT SCHEME OF WORK

WEEK TOPICS CONTENTS

1 DEFINTION OF - Government as an institution
SUBJECT MATTERS; of the state
-Government as a process or
Art of governing
-Government as academic
field of study
2 BASIC CONCEPT OF -Power
GOVERNMENT; -Authority
-Legitimacy
-Sovereignty
3 DEMOCRACY -Meaning of democracy
-Political culture
-Political socialization
4 BASIC CONCEPT OF -Political participation
GOVERNMENT; -Communalism
-Feudalism
5 BASIC CONCEPT OF -Capitalism
GOVERNMENT; -Socialism
-Comparison
6 BASIC CONCEPT OF -Communism
GOVERNMENT; -Fascism
-Totalitarianism
7 TYPES AND -Unitary and Federal system;
CHARACTERISTICS Meaning, characteristics,
OF GOVERNMENT;
-Advantages and
Disadvantages
8 TYPES OF -Parliamentary system of
GOVERNMENT; government
-Presidential system of
government
-Comparison of parliamentary
 and presidential system of
government
9 TYPES OF -Confederal
GOVERNMENT; -Monarchy
-Comparison of federalism and
confederalism Republicanism
10 ORGANS OF -meaning, types and functions
GOVERNMENT; of the Legislature
LEGISLATIVE
11 ORGANS OF -Meaning, Types and functions
GOVERNMENT; of the Executives
EXECUTIVE
12 ORGANS OF -Functions of the Judiciary
GOVERNMENT; -Independence of judiciary
JUDICIARY
13 REVISION REVISION
14 EXAMINATION EXAMINATION

REFERNCES
Bounty Government- Abiodun K. Oladipupo and Sunday A. Olawoore
Substance of Government – Olusola Oyewole
Understanding Government – Igbade Alade Ojudu
Essential Government – C C. Dibie
Comprehensive Government – A. Anyaele
Government Round up – O. Oyeneye etal
Essentials of Government for West Africa, Adigwe, F
Elements of Politics, Anifowose, R and Enemuo, F. C
Modern Politics and Government, Ball, A. R.
A. E. C., Amucheazi, E. C., Coker, H. o. and Oshuntuyi, O.
Unique SSCE Past Questions and Answers 1988 – 2017
www.youtube.com
www.governmentworld.com
www.eNow.com
www.think24-7.com
www.NoteAdvocate.com
www.info.com/
www.generix.me/content/wiki/waec/government/
www.myschool.ng
 WEEK 1; DEFINITION OF THE SUBJECT MATTERS
OF GOVERNMENT
Lesson Objectives
At the end of the lesson, Students should be able to;
1. Explain government as an institution of the state
2. Explain government as an art of governing
3. Explain government as an academic field of study

The term Government has no one universally or

generally acceptable definition, government is defined
in three different ways;
I. GOVERNMENT AS AN INSTITUTION OF THE STATE
Government as an institution of the state means an
agency or machinery through which the will of the state
is formulated, expressed, and attained. Formation of
government as an institution of the state arose as a
result of people coming together and living together to
form a society. In such a society, people’s individual
differences that will give rise to the display of man’s
wicked acts, selfish interest, conflict of interest etc
manifest and if there is no agency to regulate people’s
activities the society will degenerate to what Thomas
Hobbes called primitive society where life was ‘‘solitary,
poor, nasty, brutish and short’’. In order to prevent
confusion and disorder in a society, people will have to
surrender part of their natural rights to government.
Therefore, government which is an established body of
persons is vested with the authority and power to
regulate, control, and protect people in the state.

II. GOVERNMENT AS A PROCESS OR ART OF GOVERNING

is a body vested with the power and authority to
 maintaining security, peace and stability by making and
enforcing conventional and fundamental laws in a given
state or society. Through the formulation and
implementation of policies in the state, government
regulates the activities of the citizens and at the same
time steers the affairs of the state. Governmental
powers that exist in the state are divided into three
main organs and these organs are the executive, the
legislature, and the judiciary. These organs of
government carry out the art of governing.

III. GOVERNMENT AS AN ACADEMY FIELD OF STUDY

means the study of agencies, political institutions, and
dynamics of the state. This study also involves looking
into the functions and relationship between these
institutions concerned in the steering of the affairs of
the state. Government as an academic field of study also
studies international organizations of which the state is
a member and the relationship between the state and
other states in the world. As an academic field of study,
government is given various names as it suites the
institutions concerned e.g. as Government or Political
science or Politics. The study of the mechanism of
government equips citizens to take part in the art of
governance of their state.

REASONS WHY GOVERNMENT IS AN ACADEMIC FIELD OF

STUDY
1. Government is an academic field of study or a school
discipline because it is being taught in our school,
colleges, and universities
2. Government has specialized areas in our tertiary
institutions e.g. political science, international
 relations, public administration, local government
administration etc.
3. It borrows ideas from other disciplines like
philosophy, history, sociology, economic and law etc
4. Like other disciplines, government makes use of
scientific methods, tools and statistics in carrying out
it researches and analysis.

WHY WE STUDY GOVERNMENT OR IMPORTANCE OFTHE

STUDY OF GOVERNMENT
1. The study of government prepares us to take active
part in the government of our country.
2. Through the study of government, we know our
rights, duties and obligations as citizens.
3. The study of government equips those interested in
politics to be professional politicians.
4. Knowledge of government puts the citizens in a
position to defend their fundamental human rights
when violated.
5. Finally, the study of government supports the
practice of democracy and the rule of law.
FUNCTIONS OF GOVERNMENT
1. Law making – government performs law making, law
execution and law adjudication.
2. Maintenance of law and order – it is in a bid to carry
out this function that the police and law courts are
established and equipped.
3. Defence of the country and protection of lives and
property.
4. Provision of social services like good roads,
electricity, pipe born water, hospital etc.
5. Provision of employment opportunities to its citizens
6. Lastly, maintaining external relations with friendly
nations.
 THE STATE
Lesson Objectives
At the end of the lesson, Students should be able to;
1. Define State
2. Explain the characteristics of the state
3. Explain the relationship between the state and the
government
A state may be defined as a politically organized body of
people occupying a definite geographical territory with an
organized government entirely free from external
control and with coercive power to secure obedience
from its citizens and others.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A STATE
1. Population: For a state to exist, there must be a
number of people which has no minimum or maximum
that will occupy it.
2.Territory- A state must possess a definite territory
which has no limit to its size.
3.Government- A state must have a machinery called
government. The existence and survival of a state are
maintained by the government.
4.Sovereignty- A state must have the supreme power to
enable it make and enforce laws.
5.Recognition- A state must be recognized both
internally and externally among countries
6.Permanence- A state is relatively permanent unlike
government which changes periodically, a state does not
change, it is permanent.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE STATE AND THE

GOVERNMENT
 The state and the government are complementary to
each other. The government acts as an agency or
machinery through which the state maintains its
existence. Government is formed as a result of the
state. On the other hand, the state cannot survive
without one form of government or the other no matter
how primitive such government may be.
However, the state and the government are not
identical, they are distinct from each other in the
following ways.
1. The state as the entire community of persons is made up
of the government and the governed while the
government is an agency of the state by which its
existence and functions are carried out.
2. The state is an association while the government is an
organization.
3. The six components of the state are; population,
territory, government, sovereignty, recognition and
permanence while the main organs of government are
the legislature, executive and judiciary.
4. The state is a permanent entity while government comes
and goes without destroying the corporate existence of
the state.

STATE AND NATION

A state exists where a territory, a people, a government
and sovereignty exist. It may lack the feeling of
nationality or oneness among the people and yet remain a
state. A nation could be seen as a body of people who feel
themselves to be naturally linked together, share common
ties, believe that they can live happily together.

STATE/SOCIETY
Society is referred to as the association of human
beings. This suggests the whole complex of relations of
man to his fellows.
There may be many different groups in the like the
church do influence social life but do not owe their origin
or whatever to the state.
The State is a way of regulation human conduct, it orders
us not to commit murder, not to steal and there is
punishment for their violation.

ASSIGNMENT

1. What is government?
2. Discuss the characteristics of government
3. Discuss the functions of government
4. What is state?
5. What characteristics must a state possess?

For further Reading

1. Substance of Government(pg 1-14)

2. Bounty Government(pg 1-13)

3. Essential Government (pg 1-8)

4. Comprehensive Government(pg 1-9)

5. Unique SSCE Past Questions and Answers on

Government 1978 – 2017

6. Wikipedia

7. www.myschool.ng/classroom/government/

8. www.youtube.com
EVIDENCE OF EXTRA WORK

SUMMARY OF TOPIC
WEEK 2; BASIC CONCEPTS OF GOVERNMENT

Lesson Objectives
At the end of the lesson, Students should be able to;

1. Define power
2. Discuss the forms and sources of power
3. Define authority
4. State and explain the sources and types of authority
5. Differentiate power from authority

(A) POWER
POWER may be defined as the ability to control the
actions of others through the possession of means of
sanctions. By exercising power, others may be forced to
change their actions against their will and to compel
obedience on their part through one’s possession and
application of the instrument of coercion, force, or
threat.
FORMS OF POWER
1. Political power – it is exercised by government in
steering the affairs of a state. This type of power
which resides in the three organs of government is
derived from the constitution
2.Physical power – this type of power which is also known
as naked power involves the use of physical force to
compel obedience.
3.Economic power – this involves the use of economic
resources at a person’s disposal in controlling the
actions of others. Those who possess economic power
sometimes influence the policies of the government
4.Military power – military power can be used forcefully
to change a government, quell riots, defend the
territory of a state against internal or external
attacks etc.

SOURCES OF POWER
1. The constitution – In democratic states, the
constitution specifies the method of acquiring power
through elections that are held periodically.
2.Through inheritance – This is a common means of
acquiring traditional power by the traditional rulers,
those born in royal families have the right of ascending
to the throne vacated by their ancestors which gives
them some elements of power.
3.Position of Authority – One’s position of authority can
confer some element of power on the person e.g. the
principal of a school exercises some power over both
the staff and students.
4.Through coercion – Power can be obtained through the
use of force especially military force e.g. the military
can acquire political power through coup d’etat.
5.The use of charisma – Many people acquire power
through their personal influence and capacity to inspire
others.
6. Control of Economic Resources – Those who control
economic resources use such opportunity to acquire
political power, this is in line with the principles of
economic determinism.
 (B) AUTHORITY

AUTHORITY is the formal or legal right to give

order and enforce obedience. Authority therefore
gives one the right to command others to obey as a
duty, authority is derived from the consent of the
people, commands respect, influence and confidence
SOURCES OF AUTHORITY
Max Weber, a German Sociologist mentioned the
following three sources of authority;
1. Traditional Authority – this source of authority is
derived from hereditary families based on the existing
customs and tradition e.g. the traditional rulers in
Nigeria derived their political power from this age-long
traditions and cultural practices
2.Legal Authority – the type of authority is derived from
a body of rules and regulations governing a given
society e.g. the constitution
3. Charismatic Authority – the source of this type of
authority is the exceptional personal characteristics.
Charisma is an extraordinary quality of a person, which
gives rise to the acceptance of the person as a leader.

TYPES OF AUTHORITY
1. Political Authority- this is the power conferred on a
group of individuals by a written document such as
constitution to make decisions, policies and enforce
obedience.
2. Coercive Authority- This is the type of authority
involving the use of force. Acceptance of this type of
authority is done out of fear e.g. military authority is a
good example
3. Charismatic Authority- this type of authority is
based on the extraordinary personal qualities of an
individual which influence others to accept order of
the individual and obey them
4. Delegated Authority- this is authority conferred on
a subordinate to exercise certain powers on specified
matters
5. Technical Authority- this is the power one exercises
based on his technical know-how, such a person’s
authority is accepted because he is a recognised
expert in the field concerned
6. Traditional Authority – this type of authority is held
by those qualified by tradition and is normally acquired
through inheritance
7. Legal Rational Authority- this is power legitimized
and defined by law and held by those who are legally
qualified
8. Positional Authority- this is the type of power one
exercises as a result of the position the person holds.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN POWER AND
AUTHORITY
1. Power requires some elements of force and
sanction while authority is exercised without the
application of force.
2. The punishment that goes with the exercise of
power is graver than that of authority.
3. The main attribute of authority is legitimacy,
power may not be legitimate, and for instance
military power lacks legitimacy.
4. The fear of sanctions compels people to obey in a
power relation while legitimacy of the order based
on the existing rules and charisma compels people to
obey in authority relation.
 5. Power cannot be delegated but authority can.

(C) LEGITIMACY
The term legitimacy is derived from the Latin word
‘‘legitimus’’ and it means lawful or according to law.
Therefore, legitimacy is general acceptance of the
political system as the most appropriate and being in
line with the laws of the land. Therefore, a legitimate
government is one that is constitutionally elected and
is acceptable to the population.

FACTORS THAT DETERMINE OR PROMOTE

LEGITIMACY
1. Popular participation- For a political system to be
accorded legitimacy, the various interest groups such
as political parties, pressure groups etc. must be
allowed to take part, such participation of the various
interest groups will give the system the required
acceptance by the populace.
2. Periodic free and fair elections – Election is the
most common and generally acceptable means of
installing a democratic government especially in the
modern political society. Therefore, it is naturally
expected that such elections should be periodic, free
and fair so as to enable rulers receive the mandate of
the people to rule.
3. Good Government- People accord legitimacy to a
government which meets up their expectations of good
governance i.e. good policies.
4. Rule of Law and Constitutionalism- The existence
and strict application of the principles of rule of law
 and constitutionalism will confer much legitimacy on
any government.
5. Good Leadership- A leader that is elected through
democratic processes and performs credibly in office
will make people accept his regime as legitimate.
6. Foreign Diplomacy- The foreign policies adopted by
government of a country determine the legitimacy
other nations will accord to such government.

(D) SOVEREIGNTY
SOVEREIGNTY may be defined as the absolute
power of the state to exercise supreme legal authority
over its own affairs within its territory without any
form of external control. A sovereign state therefore
has absolute power to make and enforce laws within its
territory without any external influence. It was a
French political philosopher Jean Bodin (1530-1596)
who introduced modern theory of sovereignty into
political theory and later developed by notable political
scientists such as Hobbes, Lock, Rousseau, Dicey, John
Austin etc
.
CHARACTERISTICS OF SOVEREIGNTY
1. ABSOLUTENESS- The powers of a sovereign state
have no limitations
2. PERMANENCE- Sovereignty exists so long as the
state exists.
3. INDIVISIBILITY- The powers of sovereignty which
are supreme, absolute and final cannot be divided.
4. COMPREHENSIVENESS-The power of sovereignty is
wide in scope and all-embracing.
5. INALIENABILITY-The powers of sovereignty cannot
be given away or transferred.
6. Absence of Foreign Control
TYPES OF SOVEREIGNTY
1. LEGAL SOVEREIGNTY- This is the power to make and
enforce laws in a given state. The body that makes and
enforces these laws of the state is known as the legal
sovereignty.
2.POLITICAL SOVEREIGNTY- This is also known as
popular sovereignty. This is the supreme power vested
in the people to form a government of their choice.
The people exercise this power through the ballot box
by voting for those they want to delegate the power
to.
3.INTERNAL SOVEREIGNTY – This is the supreme
powers of the state to make and enforce laws within
its area of jurisdiction
4.EXTERNAL SOVEREIGNTY- This is the independence
of a state to conduct international relations with other
states on an equal basis.
5.DE-JURE SOVEREIGNTY- This is sovereignty acquired
in accordance with the laws of the land or constitution
as opposed to the use of forces.
6.DE-FACTO SOVEREIGNTY- This is the sovereignty
acquired with the use of coercion e.g. a de-facto
sovereignty exists where a group of soldiers staged a
coup d’etat to displace a legitimate government.
LOCATION OF SOVEREIGNTY
Sovereignty could be located in any of the following
institution or groups in a state
1. Location in a Federal state- The constitution of a
federal state is supreme and it recognises different
authorities and with different powers and functions to
 exercise e.g. the central government and other
subordinate units like state and local governments.
Therefore, sovereignty in a federalist state is shared
since powers are constitutionally shared too.
2.Location in a Unitary state- Since most of the
constitution of a unitary state recognises only the
central level of authority and give it all the power,
sovereignty therefore resides with the central
government.
3.The Electorate- The electorate have the ultimate
power through the election to decide who will be their
representatives in government. Therefore, political
sovereignty resides with the electorate.
4.In a Monarchy- Britain is a good example where the
location of sovereignty can be traced to the queen in
parliamentary system with ceremonial functions
5. Location in a Military regime- military regime is
highly centralised system of government. Where the
ruling council acts as both the executive and legislative
organs, the supreme power of the state is located in
the central ruling council or body.
LIMITATION TO THE SOVEREIGNTY OF A STATE
1. The constitution- constitutions of most states are
supreme; it defines the powers, exercised by the
various levels of government. It therefore limits the
powers of the government.
2. the Electorate – the electorate can check the
excesses of government through elections
3. Public Opinion- in democracy, Government are open
and accommodating, they take into consideration the
opinion of the people when formulating policies. This is
a limitation to the exercise of their powers
4. International Laws- this is concerned with
relationship among nations of the world. States that
disobey international laws may face some sanctions
5. International Organisation- states which belong to
international organisation e.g. U.N.O and regional or
sub-regional groups e.g. A.U and ECOWAS respectively
must be ready to abide by any collective decision taken
by the organisation etc.
ASSIGNMENT
1.a. What is political authority?
b. Explain the various types of political authority.
(WASSCE June 1995)
2. What are the main sources of authority? (WASSCE
June 2005)
3. State three differences between power and authority.
4. Differentiate between legal sovereignty and political
sovereignty.
5. What factors limit the sovereignty of government.

For further Reading

1. Substance of government (pg 14-19)

2. Bounty government (pg 14-28)

3. Essential government (pg 9-15)

4. Comprehensive government (pg 10-13)

5. Unique SSCE Past Questions and Answers on

Government 1978 – 2017

6. Wikipedia

7. www.myschool.ng/classroom/government/
8. www.youtube.com

EVIDENCE OF EXTRA WORK

SUMMARY OF TOPIC
 WEEK 3; DEMOCRACY
Lesson Objectives;
At the end of the lesson, Students should be able to;
1. Define democracy
2. State the features of a democratic state
3. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of
democracy

DEMOCRACY may be defined as a system of

government in which all qualified adult citizens share the
supreme power directly or indirectly through their
elected representatives. According to Abraham Lincoln,
whose definition of democracy has become axiomatic,
defined democracy as the government of the people, by
the people and for the people. The word democracy was
coined from two Latin words ‘‘Demos’’ which means people
and ‘‘Kratia’’ meaning to rule. The origin of the idea of
democracy started with the Greek City-States of Athens
and Sparta. The Greek democracy was direct democracy
in which every adult citizen took part directly in the
decision-making process of the city-state. In those days,
it was possible for all adult citizens to participate in
government because of the small size of the population
of the Greek City-States.
However, in the modern state direct democracy is no
longer possible because the modern states are much
bigger and larger in size and population than the ancient
Greek City-State; people now elect their own
representatives under periodic free and fair election.
TYPES OF DEMOCRACY
There are two types of democracy namely;
1. Direct Democracy- This is where all the citizens of the
society take part in decision making in order to govern
the state. This type of democracy was practised in
ancient small Greek States.
2.Indirect Democracy- This is a type of democracy in
which elected representatives are chosen by the
citizens to govern on their behalf and according to the
wishes of the people.
FEATURES OR CHARACTERISTICS OF
DEMOCRACY
1. Regular and periodic election
2. Majority rule in the country
3. Respect for the right of the minority group
4. Equality before the law
5. Guaranteeing fundamental human rights
6. Existence of party system
7. Free and fair election
8. Existence of organised opposition to government
9. There must be an independent judiciary
10. There should be free press
11. There should be independent electoral body etc.

ADVANTAGES OF DEMOCRACY
1. It promotes political participation- It encourages
citizens to be involved in their own government and
politics
2.Legitimacy- Government elected by the people is
considered legitimate because it has the support of
the people
3.Choice of political leadership- The electorates are
given the opportunity to elect their leaders of their
choice.
4.Political Stability- Democracy involves periodic election
through which one government replace another
peacefully
5.Abuse of power- It prevents misuse of power since it
checks concentration of powers of government in the
hands of one person
6.The Rule of Law- Democracy promotes equality of
persons and protection of their fundamental human
rights
7.Decision Making Process- Persuasion and arguments are
used in making decision rather than violence or force.
PROBLEMS OF DEMOCRACY
1. The representatives of the people may be representing
their own interests and not the interest of the people
2.Rule of ignorance- Democracy does not pay attention to
quality but quantity, votes are not weighed before they
are counted
3.Elections are often manipulated to favour self centred
and irresponsible representatives through thuggery
and use of money
4.Democracy is too expensive to operate because
decision making process in a democracy involves many
people
5.Decision making process is slow, Before the decision is
taken on any public issues everybody must be involved.

(C) POLITICAL CULTURE

Lesson Objectives;
At the end of the lesson, Students should be able
to;
1. Define Political culture
2. Discuss the components of political structure
3. Describe political socialization
 4. List and explain the agents of political
socialization

POLITICAL CULTURE is the pattern of individual

attitudes, beliefs, ideas and orientation of the members
of a political system toward politics. The political culture
of a nation affects the way its people and public officials
act and react to conditions, structure, institutions, as
well as the way they go about solving national problems
COMPONENTS OF POLITICAL CULTURE
a. Cognitive Orientation- this concerns the beliefs and
knowledge people have with regards to the political
system. That is to say how the people understand and
know their political system and their belief about the
government and role of government officials
b. Evaluative Orientation- this involves the opinion and
judgement people pass, make or have on their political
system and the leader
c. Affective Orientation-this involves the attachment of
feelings, the involvement of the individual or his
rejection of political leaders and political objects in
the society
POLITICAL SOCIALIZATION
Political socialization is the process by which the
citizens are educated on the norms, values, attitudes and
behaviour accepted and practiced in the political system.
Through this process, individuals learn to support the
nation and the government in power. It involves the
passing down of these norms values etc. from generation
to generation. Political socialization is a continuous
learning process through which a child acquires the
culture of his own society
AGENTS OF POLITICAL SOCIALIZATION
The agents of political socialization include;
1. Family- The home is the first place a child makes his
contact. Children learn mainly through observing the
political behaviour of their parents they tend to learn
from them. Children from politically conscious families
tend to be more political aware and interested in
politics.
2.The school – School plays significant roles in the
political socialization of the citizens of a country. It is
in schools that political theories, the actors, heroes
etc are read and learned, how to play the political
roles.
3.Age groups-A person is known from the kind of group
he keeps. Ones political views can be influenced by
ones playmates and friends.
4.Political parties- One of the significant roles political
parties play in political socialization is stimulating
citizens into appreciating politics. political parties also
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through their manifestoes and campaign.
5. Mass media- the mass media include radio, newspapers,
television and magazines. The mass media educate,
inform and entertain the people etc.
For further Reading

1. Substance of government (pg. 19-23)

2. Bounty government (pg. 28-39)

3. Essential government (pg. 15-21)

4. Comprehensive government (pg. 13-17)

5. Unique SSCE Past Questions and Answers on

Government 1978 – 2017

6. Wikipedia

7. www.myschool.ng/classroom/government/

8. www.youtube.com

ASSIGNMENT
1. Define democracy
2. Explain the types of democracy
 3. Explain the problems of democracy in Nigeria
4. What is political culture
5. Explain the agents of political socialization

EVIDENCE OF EXTRA WORK

SUMMARY OF TOPIC

WEEK 4, COMMUNALISM
Lesson Objectives;
At the end of the lesson, Students should be able to;
1. Define Communalism
2. State the features of Communalism
3. Define feudalism stating its features
4. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of
feudalism
COMMUNALISM is s political system which embraces
collective ownership of resources by the community. It
emphasizes community feelings and togetherness, it is
based on the belief that every one is his brother’s
keeper. It was practiced in china during the reign of
Mao Tse Tung.
As a socio-political concept, communalism is derived
from the word ‘‘commune’’ which means community.
Hence, communalism is a communal belief where
members pursue a common goal collectively and such
thing like schools, land, market, halls etc are jointly
owned by the community.
FEATURES OF COMMUNALISM
1. Everyone is his brother’s keeper.
2. The community is the main unit of government.
3. There is no political party in existence.
4. There is a collective effort in the production of goods
and services.
5. Law, property, capital etc are collectively owned by the
entire community.
6. Every adult participates both in decision making and in
the execution of those decisions.
7. There is absence of exploitation and oppressive
tendencies.

FEUDALISM
 This is a primitive system of government and
economic system based mainly on hierarchical order of
ownership of land, under the system, land owners who
also double as the rulers were called feudal lords, the
tenants were called vassals or serfs while the land was
known as fief. The system was first practiced in
ancient Europe between the 9th to the 14th century

FEATURES OF FEUDALISM
1. Feudalism is based mainly on hierarchical order of
ownership of land
2. Ownership of land is vested in the king or monarch or
emperor
3. The land users or serfs hold land in return for the
services they render to their lords or kings
4. The land owners or lords are duty-bound to protect
the serf
5. The feudal tenant vowed to give military service to the
owner of the land
6. The vassal keeps possession of land as long as he
performs his feudal duties
7. The land goes back to the lord when the serf dies
unless he has an heir who could take over the land

MERITS OF FEUDALISM
1. It fostered among the big land lords self-reliance and
love of personal independence
2. It instituted orderliness and avoided total chaos. It
thus provided a temporary framework on which a true
national life could grow
3. The feudal system encourages decentralization

DEMERITS OF FEUDALISM
1. Disintegration of the state i.e. the absence of a strong
national government could give room to anarchy. The
state no longer act as a whole but as semi-independent
parts
2. Feudalism is an exploitative master-servant
relationship
3. Loyalty and obedience is not to the government but to
the land owner
For further Reading

1. Substance of government (pg 30-32)

2. Bounty government (pg 40-42)

3. Essential government (pg 22-30)

4. Comprehensive government (pg 23-24)

5. Unique SSCE Past Questions and Answers on

Government 1978 – 2017

6. Wikipedia

7. www.myschool.ng/classroom/government/

8. www.youtube.com

ASSIGNMENT
1. What is communalism?
2. Explain the features of communalism
3. Explain feudalism
4. Explain the feudalism
5. Explain the merits and demerits of feudalism
 EVIDENCE OF EXTRA WORK

SUMMARY OF TOPIC

WEEK 5; CAPITALISM
Lesson Objectives;
At the end of the lesson, Students should be able to;
1.Define Capitalism stating its features
2. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of
capitalism

CAPITALISM is an economic and political system which

allows private ownership and control of means of
production for profit motives. Under this system, the
government of the state does not interfere in the socio-
economic and political realms and people are permitted
according to their ability and resources to own factors or
means of production and also to maximize profit in such
business.
FEATURES OF CAPITALISM
1. Private ownership of the means of production is
allowed.
2. There is minimum government interference in economic
activities.
3. The main motive of entering or establishing business is
for profit making.
4. Consumers have choices in products and services.
5. The society is divided into two classes namely the
bourgeoisie (capitalists or owners of factors of
production) and the proletariat (workers).
6. There is high exploitation of the poor.
7. There is high degree of competition in all spheres of
life which improves the quality of goods produced.
8. Wealth, goods and services are unequally distributed
9. The quantity and quality of goods to be produced and
their prices are determined by the owners of means
of production (company owners).
ADVANTAGES OF CAPITALISM
1. Competition- The system is open and it encourages
competition, effort is geared towards having the best
for consumer.
2. Specialization- There is specialization and hard work in
the system.
3. Choice- The people have a choice to make in almost
everything needed or demanded.
4. Economic development- Economic development is rapid
because the system is all embracing
5. The level of economic growth is faster in capitalism
than other forms of economic system
6. It encourages private initiative in the ownership and
control of industries
7. It encourages mass political participation as there are
more than one political party in existence
DISADVANTAGES OF
CAPITALISM
1. There is unequal distribution of resources or wealth i.e.
the division of the society into the have and that have
not.
2. Unemployment can make people go into crime, 419,
smuggling etc.
3. The unhealthy competition among competing firms and
industries can bring about confusion and waste of
resources
4. The profit maximization motive of the capitalist seems
to erode the principle of morality, since people can
adopt different means to achieve their selfish desire

SOCIALISM

SOCIALISM is an economic and political system which

the means of production, distribution of goods and
services are controlled by the state for the people. The
major aim of socialism is to ensure equal distribution of
the nation’s wealth. This theory originated as a protest
against the evils of capitalism by Kari Marx, a German
(1818-1883). Russia was the first country to embrace
socialism other countries that at one time or the other
practised this system include, china, Romania, Poland
etc, in Africa; Tanzania, Ethiopia, also practised
socialism.
FEATURES OR CHARACTERISTICS OF SOCIALISM
1. Means of production- there is the state ownership and
control of the means of production
2. Nation’s wealth- equal distribution of nation’s wealth is
maintained
3. Employment- there is gainful employment for all
citizens
4. Free education and free medical services- free medical
services and free education are provided for all
citizens
5. One political party-there is the existence of only one
political party
6. Uniformity in price of all state produced goods and
services
7. Competition in the areas of production and price is
absent

MERITS OF SOCIALISM
1. Job security- there is no fear of undue loss of job
since it is the government that creates jobs and
employs all
2. Industrial harmony- there is industrial harmony
because the conditions of service of workers are
uniformly determined by the state
3. Exploitation- the tendency to exploit is eliminated in
the system
4. Welfare- the welfare of the people is adequately taken
care of by the state government
5. Issue of class- there is no class distinction in the
system. In-fact, such act is highly discouraged
6. Resources are equitably distributed among citizens
DEMERITS OF SOCIALISM
1. No competition- the absence of competition has
virtually affected the quality of goods produced. Most
of the goods are of low quality
2. Control of the economy- the government controls all
aspect of the economy. It does not give room for
personal initiations
3. The economy of most socialist state does not grow
fast unlike the capitalist states since private
individuals are not allowed to participate in the running
of the economy
4. The consumers’ free choice of goods or products is
limited since private competition which can lead to
qualitative products is not allowed.
For further Reading

1. Substance of government(pg 24-29)

2. Bounty government(pg 42-47)

3. Essential government (pg 23-29)

4. Comprehensive government(pg 18-20)

5. Unique SSCE Past Questions and Answers on

Government 1978 – 2017

6. Wikipedia

7. www.myschool.ng/classroom/government/

8. www.youtube.com

ASSIGNMENT
1. What is capitalism
2. Explain the features of capitalism
3. What is socialism
4. Explain the features of socialism
 5. Compare capitalism and socialism system of
government

EVIDENCE OF EXTRA WORK

SUMMARY OF TOPIC

WEEK 6; COMMUNISM, FASCISM AND

TOTALTARIANSM
Lesson Objectives;
At the end of the lesson, Students should be able to;
1.Define Communism stating its features
2.Define fascism stating its features
 3.Define totalitarianism stating its features

COMMUNISM may be defined as an economic system

and a system of government in which the means of
production and distribution are totally controlled by the
state. Communism is the highest stage of socialism,
individual ownership of property is completely abolished
in a communist state. The principle of distribution of
resources is ‘‘from each according to his ability and to
each according to his need’’. This is an advanced stage of
socialism. However, in practice, no state has achieved
complete or an ideal communism.
Communism as an economic/political philosophy was
founded by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels in the second
half of the 19th century. This idea was published in “the
Communist Manifesto” in 1848. Their aim was to end
capitalism believing that it was the social class system
that led to the exploitation of workers. It’s practiced in
countries like China, Poland, Cuba etc.
FEATURES OR CHARACTERISTICS OF
COMMUNISM
1. Total ownership of means of production and
distribution by the state
2. Absence of classes- classless society
3. The use of force in achieving communist goal
4. One party dominance in a communist state
5. Authoritarian and totalitarian government
6. The distribution of resources to citizens according to
their needs and ability
7. Centrally planning economy
8. All state boundaries must wither away
(B) FASCISM
 Fascism is defined as a form of government headed
by a dictator, in which government has a total control
over all activities in the state and personal liberties are
denied the people e.g. Italy under Benito Mussolini in
1922-1943, it was Nazism in Germany under Adolf Hitler
in 1933.
FEATURES OF FASCISM
1. All powers in the state are vested in the leader who
exercised total control over the entire people
2. All aspects of lives of the citizens such as education,
religion, size of family etc are control by the
government
3. Workers are not allowed to go on strike and there is no
freedom of the press
4. Fascism believes in war as a viable means of settling
dispute between nations and for the attainment of
international peace
5. Fascism does not believe in the equality of man but
believes in class structure in the society
6. The economy is highly centralized since the means of
production and distribution are controlled by the
government
7. Only one political party is allowed to exist

(C) TOTALITARIANSM
TOTALITARIANISM is defined as a form of
government in which the state has absolute control of
everything, including all aspects of the citizen’s life. In
this form of government, law is seen as a product of
the will of the rulers. They alone have the right to
define standard of right and wrong. The underlying
principle of most totalitarian governments is ‘‘all within
the state, none outside the state and none against the
 state’’. Fascism, Nazism and military rule are examples
of totalitarianism.
FEATURES OF
TOTALITARIANISM
1. Absence of constitution- there is no limit to the
powers of the government because there is no
constitution
2. Dictatorship- the government is headed by a dictator
3. Individual freedom and liberties- is absence because
people are given little or attention
4. The government uses force to suppress those who
oppose any of its policies
5. There is absolute control of the mass media by the
state
6. The economy is highly centralised; the government
determines what is to be produced
7. One party system is usually practised
ASSIGNMENT
1. What is fascism?
2. Explain the features of fascism
3. Explain communism
4. Explain totalitarianism
5. Explain the features of totalitarianism
For further Reading

1. Substance of government(pg 32-33)

2. Bounty government (pg 49-55)

3. Essential government (pg 24-34)

4. Comprehensive government (pg 21-24)

5. Unique SSCE Past Questions and Answers on

Government 1978 – 2017

 6. Wikipedia

7. www.myschool.ng/classroom/government/

8. www.youtube.com

EVIDENCE OF EXTRA WORK

SUMMARY OF TOPIC
WEEK 7; TYPES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF
GOVERNMENT
(A)UNITARY SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT
Lesson Objectives; At the end of the lesson,
Students should be able to;
1.Define Unitarianism stating its features
2.Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of
Unitarianism

The is a system of government in which all the

governmental powers of a state are concentrated in
one level of government usually called the central
government. It is a kind of political arrangement in
which there is only one source of authority. The
central authority or government does not share powers
with any other body or level of government. Examples
of unitary states are Britain, France, Italy, Ghana and
Togo.
�
FEATURES OF UNITARY SYSTEM
1. All governmental powers are vested in the central
government
2. All other component units, regions or states are
subordinate to the central government
3. State with unitary system are characterized with small
geographical size and population
4. There is similarity in language, religion, culture, history
etc of the people that constitute unitary states
5. The constitution is usually unwritten and flexible
6. The parliament or legislature is supreme

ADVANTAGES OF UNITARY SYSTEM

1. Less cost- the cost of running a unitary government is
relatively lower than the federal system. No
duplication of functions
2. Quick Action- decisions are taking quickly because the
central government alone takes decision
3. Flexible constitution- the method of amending the
constitution is easy because the constitution is
flexible.
4. Promotes strong government- A unitary state is
stronger than a federal one. This is because all the
powers of governance are concentrated in the hands of
one central authority
5. Unitary- Absence of tribalism or sectionalism brings
unity in a unitary state

DISADVANTAGES OF A UNITARY SYSTEM

1. Dictatorship- unitary system of government often
encourages dictatorship, because of the concentration
of powers in a single authority
2. Poor attention to the local areas- the people in local
areas may not be given adequate attention
3. A unitary system can only work in a small country
4. Development may be slow in the various units in the
country
5. Poor representation in government
6. The minority could be oppressed and dominated by the
majority tribes
7. Unemployment rate could be high in a unitary state as
a result of low duplication of functions.
Lesson 2

(B) FEDERAL SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT

This may be defined as a type of government in
which governmental powers of a state are shared or
divided constitutionally between the central or federal
government and the component units that may exist in
the state.
In a federal system, the supremacy of the
constitution is only respected or uphold, but also
responsible for the division of powers among the tiers
of governments. U.S.A. Nigeria, Germany etc are
country with federal system of government

REASONS FOR THE ADOPTION OF A FEDERAL

SYSTEM
1. Nearness of the federal units- if the units making up
the system are very near to each other e.g. states or
regions etc a federal system may emerge
2. Tribal Differences- differences in culture, religion,
language, custom, tradition etc among different groups
 of a country may lead to the establishment of
federalism
3. The size of the country- large population and wide
geographical areas are some of the reasons that give
rise to federalism system
4. To bring government nearer to the people- federalism
which leads to creation of states brings government to
the door steps of the people in their various local
areas
5. For rapid and even development of a country
6. To create more employment opportunities through the
division of powers and the duplication of ministries and
offices

ADVANTAGES OF FEDERALISM
1. Integration of different groups- a federal system
brings together different ethnic groups, federalism
blends unity within different group
2. It brings government close to the people thereby
building confidence in the people and encouraging local
initiative
3. It encourages mass participation in government because
the exercise of authority is decentralized
4. It encourages rapid social and economic development of
the nation because each of the component unit is
willing and anxious to develop its own area
5. It encourages healthy competition which can lead to
increased productivity among the various units.
6. Federalism also promotes employment opportunities
since it allows for duplication of government ministries
and department
7. Reduction in work load of the central government
because functions are divided
 DEMERITS OF A FEDERAL SYSTEM
1. Regionalism/ Sectionalism- individuals prefer to be
more loyal to their state and this can affect national
unity
2. Costly to run- large number of departments and
personnel are needed or created in a federal, state
thereby making it a costly venture
3. Uneven development- federalism accommodates the
freedom of each unit to develop at its own pace, which
leads to even development
4. Duplication of functions can create redundancy
which affects productivity
5. Rigid constitution- federal constitutions are usually
rigid. This means that the constitution can not easily
be amended to reflect changing times
6. Government activities and decisions on issues of
national importance are very slow because the
subordinate units have to be consulted
7. Boundary disputes- this is a common feature in a
federal system as well as the component units.
ASSIGNMENT
1. What is unitary system of government
2. Explain the features of unitary system of
government
3. What is federalism
4. Explain the features of federalism
5. Compare unitary and federal system of
government

For further Reading

1. Substance of government (pg 70-72)

2. Bounty government (pg 57-66)

3. Essential government (pg 35-41)

4. Comprehensive government (pg 25-30)

5. Unique SSCE Past Questions and Answers on

Government 1978 – 2017

6. Wikipedia

7. www.myschool.ng/classroom/government/

8. www.youtube.com

EVIDENCE OF EXTRA WORK

SUMMARY OF TOPIC
WEEK 8; TYPES OF GOVERNMENT;
PARLIAMENTARY AND PRESIDENTIAL SYSTEM OF
GOVERNMENT
Lesson Objectives; At the end of the lesson,
Students should be able to;
1.Define Parliamentarianism stating its features
2.Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of
Parliamentarianism

(A) PARLIAMENTARY OR CABINET SYSTEM OF

GOVERNMENT

Parliamentary or cabinet system of government is

defined as a system of government in which the head
of state is different from the head of government.
The head of state exercises ceremonial functions while
the prime minister is the head of government and he
exercises executive functions. The prime minister and
his cabinets (minister) are drawn from the parliament
(legislature). The prime-minister is the chairman in all
cabinet meetings. In Britain, for example, the head of
 state is the monarch (Queen). In a country that is not
a monarchical system, the head of state is the
president. Nigeria operated parliamentary system of
government between 1960-1966 during her first
republic.

FEATURES OF PARLIAMENTARY SYSTEM OF

GOVERNMENT
1. The head of state is different from the head of
government.
2. There is no strict separation of powers between
the executive and legislative arms of government,
they are fused.
3. The prime-minister exercises real executive
functions.
4. The prime-minister is the head of government
while the president or Queen is the head of state.
5. The president or head of state performs
ceremonial functions.
6. The prime-minister and all cabinet members are
also members of the parliament or legislature.
7. The prime-minister and all cabinet ministers are
chosen from the legislature and they form what is
called parliamentary executive.
8. The prime minister and members of his cabinet
(ministers) can be removed from office through a
vote of no confidence.

ADVANTAGES OF PARLIAMENTARY SYSTEM

1. Reduction of dictatorial tendencies- The fear that the
executive arm of government can be dismissed by the
legislature through a vote of no confidence reduces
dictatorship tendencies of the executive.
2.It fosters cooperation between the executive and the
legislative.
3.The system is less expensive- Members of the
executives and the legislative arms are elected in only
one election and also lesser people are involved since
members of the executive are also member of the
legislative.
4.It makes for good governance- This is a result of the
presence of official opposition party.
5.Absence of frequent conflict- This is as a result of
the fusion of executive and legislative arms.
6.Collective responsibility- This makes all hands to be on
deck to work together for the success of the state,
since any mistake by any one might affect others.
7.The executive is closely checked by the parliament.

DISADVANTAGES OF PARLIAMENTARY SYSTEM

1. There is insecurity of tenure since the entire
government can be voted out of office at any time.
2. Encourage mediocrity- The prime minister is only
allowed to appoint ministers from members of his
party alone.
3. Fusion of power- This does not encourage
specialization in the art of governance.
4. No personal accountability- This is as a result of
collective responsibility.
5. It is less democratic- The Prime minister is not
elected directly by the electorate and therefore is
not responsible to the people.
6. With strict compliance to party rules and instruction,
members are forced to support the party on any issue
in the legislature even where such policies are
unpopular
 PRESIDENTIAL SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT
Presidential system is a system of government in which
the head of state is also the head of government. It is a
system in which all executive powers are vested in one
person with the title of the executive president. The
president is elected directly by the electorates and for a
fixed term of office.

FEATURES OF PRESIDENTIAL SYSTEM OF

GOVERNMENT
1. Head of state and government- The executive
president serves as both the head of state and that
of government in the system.
2. The president performs both ceremonial and
executive functions.
3. The executive president is popularly elected by the
electorates, the whole country is the constituency.
4. Appointment of cabinet members- He has the
constitutional power to appoint any member of his
cabinet from within and outside his own party.
5. The president is elected for a fixed term of office
i.e. four years single tenure or eight years double
tenures.
6. Individual responsibility- Ministers are individually
responsible to the president who appointed them.
7. President can dismiss members of his cabinet or
reshuffle the entire cabinet.
8. Separation of powers- The three organs of
government; executive, legislature and judiciary are
separated in functions.
9. Impeachment- The president or the governor of the
state can be removed by the parliament through the
process of impeachment.
 10. Ministers are not part of the legislature.
11. There is checks and balances among the organs
of government.

ADVANTAGES OF PRESIDENTIAL SYSTEM OF

GOVERNMENT
1. The strict adherence to the principle of separation
of powers and checks and balances in the system
prevents the arbitrary use of governmental powers.
2. Best materials are given political appointment, the
president has free hand when appointing his
ministers and other political appointees.
3. Checks and balances- These are very effective
among the three organs of government.
4. Individual responsibility of ministers- Ministers are
held responsible for poor performance and be
dismissed by the president
5. Popularly elected- The president is popularly elected
and as such the party does not have control over
him, but can only advice.
6. Separation of powers- Powers are distinctly
separated and this enhances effective performance
of each of the organ.
7. Fixed term of office- The president has a fixed
term to stay in office and there is no way he can
transform himself into a life president.
8. Enough time- Ministers have enough time to attend
to their duties, this is because they only belong to
the executive.

DISADVANTAGES OF PRESIDENTIAL SYSTEM OF

GOVERNMENT
 1. Delay in the execution of programmes because of
separation of powers among the three arms of
government.
2. The presidential system is too expensive to operate.
3. The difficulty in the process of impeachment could
make a president to stay and abuse his office and
yet complete his term.
4. Lobbying- this is a common feature of the system
especially in the parliament and lead to corrupt
practices.
5. Vetoing of bills- the president can misuse or even
abuse the powers given to him to veto bills.
ASSIGNMENT
1. What is parliamentary system
2. List the merits and demerits of parliamentary
system of government
3. What is presidential system of government
4. Explain the merits and demerits of presidential
system of government
5. Compare the parliamentary system of government
with the presidential system
For further Reading

1. Substance of government(pg 73-76)

2. Bounty government(pg 71-77)

3. Essential government (pg 41-52)

4. Comprehensive government(pg 32-40)

5. Unique SSCE Past Questions and Answers on

Government 1978 – 2017

6. Wikipedia
 7. www.myschool.ng/classroom/government/

8. www.youtube.com

EVIDENCE OF EXTRA WORK

SUMMARY OF TOPIC

WEEK 9; TYPES OF GOVERNMENT; CONFEDERAL,

MONARCHY AND REPUBLICANISM
LESSON OBJECTIVES
At the end of the lesson, Students should be able to;
1. Define monarchy explaining its types and features
2. Define Republicanism explaining its features
(A) MONARCHY
MONARCHY is a form of government in which the
political power of a state is vested in a king or queen. The
king or queen is the Head of State and acquires the
position through inheritance or hereditary right and the
family of the king or queen is known as the royal family.
Examples of countries with monarchical system of
government are Britain, Saudi Arabia, and Morocco etc.
TYPES OF MONARCHY
(a) Absolute monarchy- this is a type of monarchy in
which the monarch possesses unlimited powers in the
state. The monarch combines both ceremonial functions
and real executive powers of the state and does not have
constitutional restrictions on the exercise of such
powers e.g. king fahd of Saudi Arabia, King Hassan off
Morocco and late emperor Haile salessie of Ethiopia
(b) Constitutional Monarchy- this is where the powers of
the monarch are derived from the constitution and such
powers are also limited by constitution provisions. In this
case, the monarch acts as a mere ceremonial or figure
head of the state and not head of government which is
executive. The duties of the monarch are properly spelt
out in the constitution. Countries with constitutional
monarchies are Britain, Sweden, Iran, Denmark,
Netherland etc
FEATURES OF MONARCHY
1. It is a form of government in which the monarch comes
into power based on inheritance
2.The monarch rules based on age long cultural practices
and tradition
3.There is no fixed term of tenure for the monarch
4.The monarch is seen as the symbol and custodian of the
traditions of the people.
(b) REPUBLICAN GOVERNMENT
A Republican form of government can be defined as a
sovereign state headed by a president, elected for a
fixed term of office unlike a monarchy, succession to the
office of the head of state is non-hereditary but
election. Examples of republican countries are France,
USA, Canada, Nigeria, Ghana etc.
FEATURES OF REPUBLICAN GOVERNMENT
1. There are periodic elections of political leaders into
public offices
2.There are constitutional limitations to the exercise of
power by political leaders
3.There is popular representation since the government
is a broad based one
4.Succession to public office is through popular election
and not hereditary
5.There is separation of powers among the organs of
government
6.There is strict adherence to the principle of rule of law

ASSIGNMENTY
1. What is monarchical system
2. Explain the types of monarchical system
3. What is a republican system?
4. Explain the features of republican system
5. Compare monarchical and republican system of
government
For further Reading

1. Substance of government(pg 23 & 77--78)

2. Bounty government(pg 80-83)

3. Essential government (pg 54-57)

4. Comprehensive government(pg 40-42)

5. Unique SSCE Past Questions and Answers on

Government 1978 – 2017

6. Wikipedia

7. www.myschool.ng/classroom/government/

8. www.youtube.com

EVIDENCE OF EXTRA WORK

 SUMMARY OF TOPIC

WEEK 10; COMPARISON OF CONFEDERALISM AND

FEDERALISM
Lesson Objectives;
At the end of the lesson, Students should be able to;
1.Define Confederalism stating its features
2.Distinguish clearly between federal system and
confederation
Confederal system of government is a type of
government where there is a loose political union of two
or more sovereign states with a weak central government
that is subordinate to the sovereign component units. A
Confederal government is a voluntary association of
states that have decided to come together for mutual
benefits. The system is also called loose federalism.
Examples of countries that had once operated or
practiced confederalism include Senegal and Gambia
under the name Senegambia, United States of America
(1781-1789).
FEATURES OF CONFEDERAL GOVERNMENT
1. Consultation- This is made among them before taking
independent actions
2. Loose union- confederation is a loose union of
sovereign states
3. Separate diplomatic representation- member states
have separate diplomatic representation
4. Right of secession- members have equal status and
have the right of secession from the confederation,
if and when the government of member states so
desires
5. Absence of effective central authority- this is
because sovereign power cannot be located in a
confederation
6. Membership of the union is voluntary – no member
state is forced to become a member of the union,
since they can secede at any time
7. No national armed forces- the various members of
the confederacy maintain and retain their separate
military establishment
8. The system does not make for even development

COMPARISON BETWEEN FEDERAL SYSTEM AND CONFEDERAL SYSTEM

FEDERAL SYSTEM CONFEDERAL SYSTEM
1 It has a strong centre The centre government is
or federal government not strong but weak
2 The centre is more The states making up the
powerful than the confederation are more
component units (state) powerful than the centre
3 The constitution is There is no constitution but
supreme, written and if any is flexible
rigid
4 Component units making There is right for any state
up a federation can not to secede or break away
secede
5 The central government Component states still
controls the armed maintain their separate
forces military establishment
6 It is a stable political The system is fragile and
system not stable
7 Sovereignty still rests Sovereignty is with
with the central component states
government
8 Powers are shared There is no power sharing
between the centre and
other component units

ASSIGNMENT
1. What is confederal system of government
2. Explain the features of confederal system of
government
3. Compare federalism and confederalism system of
governments
For further Reading

1. Substance of government(pg 70-72 $ 42-44)

2. Bounty government(pg 77-79)

3. Essential government (pg 53-54)

4. Comprehensive government(pg 30-31)

5. Unique SSCE Past Questions and Answers on

Government 1978 – 2017

6. Wikipedia
7. www.myschool.ng/classroom/government/

8. www.youtube.com

EVIDENCE OF EXTRA WORK

SUMMARY OF TOPIC
WEEK 11; ORGANS OF GOVERNMENT;
LEGISLATURE
Lesson Objectives;
1.Define legislature explaining its types
2.Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of
unicameral and bicameral legislature
The legislature is the organ of government responsible
for law making. The primary duty of the legislature is law
making, the legislature is also known as the parliament. It
is made up of elected representatives of the people
throughout the federation at the federal level and
throughout the state level in the case of Nigeria. It is
called National Assembly made up of the House of
Senate and the House of Representatives

TYPES OF LEGISLATURE
1. UNICAMERAL LEGISLATURE- this is a situation
where the legislature house or body has only one
chamber or house. It is established where the
population is small. Here, once a bill has been passed
by the law makers, they present it to the president
for approval or assent, since there is not second
house
ADVANTAGES OF UNICAMERAL LEGISLATURE
1. It is less expensive to run since there is no second
chamber
2. Decision making is quicker since it is not necessary
to refer bill to the other house for consideration
3. It is good for a unitary state especially where the
population and size of the country are small
4. The conflict that can arise in two chamber system is
eliminated
 DISADVANTAGES OF UNICAMERAL
LEGISLATURE
1. It can be dominated by one party and easily
influenced by the executive organ
2. There is no equal representation of tribes and
interests
3. It can lead to arbitrary rule of the legislature over
the entire state
4. It can lead to hast and sometime irrational
decision
2. BICAMERAL LEGISLATURE- this is the type of
legislature with two houses or chambers. For
example, the Nigeria National Assembly is bicameral,
the two chambers are the House of Senate and the
House of Representatives

ADVANTAGES OF BICAMERALISM
1. There is thoroughness in the scrutiny and passage of
bills, the mistake make by one house is corrected by the
other house
2. It gives room for equal representation of the
component units in a federation
3. The upper house is made up of seasoned
administrators
4. It allows the upper house to relieve the lower house of
its work load

DISADVANTAGES OF BICAMERALISM
1. It can lead to unhealthy rivalry (power tussle) between
the two houses
2. It can lead to unnecessary duplication of offices
3. It could delay government work since bills must be
properly scrutinized by each house before they are
passed
4. It is expensive to run since the lawmakers are to be
paid their salaries and other allowances

FUNCTIONS OF THE LEGISLATURE

1. Law making- the primary function of the legislature
is law making and it is done through legislative process
2. Financial control- it controls the raising and
spending of money and approves it as proposed by the
executive
3. Powers of investigation- it conduct investigation into
government department to ascertain how funds
approved by them are spent
4. Power of Approval- it has the power to approve
adjust or reject appointment of senior public officers
e.g. ministers, ambassadors etc
5. It controls the activities of the other branches of
government through legislatives committees
6. Amendment of the constitution
7. Power of impeachment of head of state, if he
commits a very serious offence
8 Approval for the declaration of war and a state of
emergency proposed by the executive.
Lesson 2
Lesson Objectives;
1. Define a bill
2. State and explain the types of bills
3. Discuss the stages of passing a bill into law
BILLS
A bill is a proposal presented before the legislature
for legislative deliberations and considerations for it
to become a law. A bill is not a law until it is signed into
law by the president
TYPES OF BILLS
There are three types of bills namely;
1. Public bill- public bills are sponsored or initiated by
the executive organ of government. They are bills that
deal with matters that affect the whole country
2. Private member bill- it is a bill sponsored or initiated
by an elected member of the legislature. Usually such
bills if passed into law affect only a part or fraction of
the state
3. Money bill- money bills are also initiated or
introduced by the executive organ. Essentially, it deals
with how government raises and spends money
STAGES OF PASSING A BILL INTO LAW
1. First Reading- This is when the draft of a bill is
presented to the clerk of the house by a minister or
a member of the parliament.
2. Second Reading-This is the stage in which the
person that brought the bill to the house will explain
to the house the purpose of the bill. Members of the
parliament will then debate or argue for or against
the bill whether it should be read the second time.
Voting takes place and if approved with majority
votes, it moves to the next stage.
3. Committee Stage- This is the stage where the bill is
referred to committee which can be that of the
whole house or a standing committee depending on
the importance of the bill. The bill will now be
considered in each of the committees and
amendments made.
4. Report Stage- At this stage, all the findings of the
various standing committees is reported to the
house after all the amendments have been made.
5. Third Reading- At this final stage, a thorough look
would be taken on the bill in order to correct certain
errors connected with the drafting or amendment. A
final vote is also taken on the bill at this stage. The
bill is then taken to the president for assent after
the bill has passed all the five stages in both houses
of representative and senate, and it automatically
becomes law after being signed by the President.

ASSIGNMENT
1. What is legislature
2. Explain the types of legislature
3. What are the differences between the unicameral
and bicameral legislature?

For further Reading

1. Substance of government(pg 61-68)

2. Bounty government(pg 96-114)

3. Essential government (pg 70-81)

4. Comprehensive government(pg 42-47)

5. Unique SSCE Past Questions and Answers on

Government 1978 – 2017

6. Wikipedia
7. www.myschool.ng/classroom/government/

8. www.youtube.com

EVIDENCE OF EXTRA WORK

SUMMARY OF TOPIC
WEEK 12; ORGANS OF GOVERNMENT; EXECUTIVE
AND JUDICIARY
Lesson Objectives; At the end of the lesson, I should
be able to;
1.Define executive stating its functions
2.Discuss ways the executive is controlled
3. Define judiciary stating its functions
4, Discuss the independence of the judiciary
highlighting the problems encountered.
(i) EXECUTIVE
This is the organ of government that implements laws.
They carrying out of laws passed by the legislature and
the proper administration of the nation are the
functions of the executive. In parliamentary system,
the Executive is the cabinet which is made up of the
prime minister and the ministers, while in the
presidential including the other ministers he appoints
to assist him in his executive functions

FUNCTIONS OF THE EXECUTIVE

The functions of the Executive could be divided into
three parts namely; legislative, administrative and
judicial functions
a. Legislative functions of the Executive
1. Recommending and initiating of bills for
consideration by the legislature
2. It defends bills in the legislature
3. It has power to summon and dissolve the legislature
b. Judicial functions of the Executive
1. The chief executive can issue pardon for offences
against the state
2. The president can reduce the term of sentence of
an offender
3. The executive can punish law breakers
c. Administrative functions of the Executive
1. They direct and supervise the execution of laws
2. They appoint and remove members of the cabinet
3. The executive controls or regulates trade
transactions with foreign countries
4. They negotiate treaties with other countries
5. It formulates and implements policies or
programmes for the states
6. It coordinates the day-to-day activities of the state
7. It ensures law and order through the use of state
police and the armed forces
8. It prepares and delivers the annual income and
expenditure (budget) of the state etc
THE CONTROL OF THE EXECUTIVE
1. The constitution imposes limitation on the powers
and functions of the executive
2. The actions of the executive could be challenged in
court
3. In a parliamentary system, the executive can be
removed by the legislature through a vote of no
confidence
4. In a presidential system, the president and even
state governor could be impeached by the legislature if
he violated the constitution
5. People can criticize the government constructively
through write ups in newspapers, radio and television
etc

(B) THE JUDICIARY

The judiciary is the arm of government that interprets
the constitution and adjudications on matters. The
judiciary is the last hope of any citizen for justice or
good judgment
In Nigeria, for example, the judiciary is made up of a
large number of courts ranging from the Supreme
Court, APPEAL Courts, High Courts and down to
Magistrate and Customary Courts.

THE FUNCTIONS OF THE JUDICIARY

1. The judiciary interprets the law or the constitution
2. They settle dispute peacefully between individuals
and the state
3. They enforce the law and punish the law breakers
and offenders
4. They give advisory opinion on constitutional and
legislative matters
5. They protect the fundamental human rights of the
citizens
6. It helps in checking or controlling the excesses of
the executive and the legislature
7. It helps in oath taking or the swearing in of
government officers

THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE JUDICIARY

1. Allow the judges to discharge their duties without
fear of favour
2. To prevent government functionaries from being too
powerful
3. To make judges to be free and fair in their work
4. To bring about peace and order in the society
5. To allow the judges to protect the fundamental
human rights of the people in the state as entrenched
in the constitution etc

SOME PROBLEMS THE JUDICIARY ARE FACING

1. Interference by the government, especially the
executive organ with decisions of the judiciary
2. Justice is often delayed because courts are
congested with cases
3. Insufficiency of courts is another problem
4. Unavailability of qualified judicial personnel
5. Lack of funding etc

ASSIGNMENT
1. Explain the executive as an arm of
government
2. Explain the functions of the executive
3. Explain the judiciary as an arm of
government
4. How can judicial independence be
maintained?

For further Reading

1. Substance of government(pg 61-68)

 2. Bounty government(pg 96-114)

3. Essential government (pg 70-81)

4. Comprehensive government(pg 42-47)

5. Unique SSCE Past Questions and Answers on

Government 1978 – 2017

6. Wikipedia

7. www.myschool.ng/classroom/government/

8. www.youtube.com

EVIDENCE OF EXTRA WORK

SUMMARY OF TOPIC