NECO 2025 GOVERNMENT ANSWER


GOVERNMENT OBJ
1-10: CDBDECAEEE
11-20: ABCBEDDBBB
21-30: ADDABBACCA
31-40: EADABBEBED
41-50: CEADEACACE
51-60: BAECABDADE



(1a)
(PICK ANY ONE)
An electoral constituency is a geographical area created by law from which one or more representatives are elected into the legislature.

OR

An electoral constituency is a legally defined geographical area from which voters elect representatives to the legislature, ensuring that each area has fair representation in government during elections.

OR

An electoral constituency is an area marked out by the government for election purposes, where the people living there vote to elect a representative who will speak for them in the legislature.

(1b)
(PICK ANY FIVE)
(i) Simple Majority System: In this system, the candidate with the highest number of votes in a constituency wins, even if the candidate does not have an absolute majority. It is simple and quick, commonly used in countries like Nigeria and the United Kingdom during general elections.

(ii) Second Ballot System: Here, if no candidate gets an absolute majority in the first round, a second round is conducted between the top candidates, often the top two. The winner of the second round becomes the elected representative. This system ensures that the winner has the majority support of voters.

(iii) Proportional Representation: In this system, seats in the legislature are allocated to parties based on the proportion of votes they receive during the election. It allows minority parties to gain representation and reduces wasted votes. It is used in countries like South Africa and Israel.


(iv) Alternative Vote System: This is also called the preferential voting system, voters rank candidates in order of preference. If no candidate gets an absolute majority of first-choice votes, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and votes are redistributed based on second preferences until a candidate wins with a majority.

(v) List System: Political parties present a list of candidates to voters, and seats are allocated to each party based on the proportion of votes each party receives. The candidates are then picked from the party list in the order they appear. It is a form of proportional representation.

(vi) Plurality System: Similar to the simple majority system, it is a system where the candidate with the highest number of votes wins, regardless of whether the votes constitute an absolute majority. It is commonly used for electing members in single-member constituencies.

(vii) Electoral College System: In this system, voters elect representatives called electors, who then elect the leader, such as the president. It is used in the United States presidential election, where the outcome depends on the votes of the electors rather than the direct popular vote.

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(2)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Federal System of Government: In a federal state, bicameral legislature is often adopted to represent both the states or regions and the people at the national level. The lower house usually represents the population based on size while the upper house represents the states equally. For example, Nigeria’s National Assembly has the House of Representatives and the Senate, ensuring states’ interests are protected while maintaining people’s representation.

(ii) Prevention of Hasty Legislation: A bicameral legislature helps to prevent the passage of hasty and ill-considered laws since a bill must pass through both chambers before becoming law. The second chamber acts as a reviewing body, examining bills critically to ensure laws are in the best interest of the citizens and are not made under pressure or without proper debate.

(iii) Representation of Diverse Interests: Countries with diverse ethnic, cultural, and religious groups adopt bicameralism to accommodate the different interests within the nation. The two chambers enable these diverse groups to have their voices heard, promoting national unity and inclusiveness in the legislative process. This ensures minority groups are not overshadowed by majority decisions.

(iv) Historical and Political Factors: The history and political evolution of a country can influence the adoption of a bicameral legislature. Former colonies of Britain like Nigeria and India often adopt bicameral legislatures due to the influence of the British parliamentary system. Additionally, countries with a tradition of bicameralism may continue with it after independence for stability and continuity.

(v) Size and Population of the Country: Countries with large populations and wide geographical spread often adopt bicameral legislature to manage effective representation. It helps to reduce the workload on a single chamber and ensures that legislative responsibilities are well distributed for effective governance. It also makes it easier for citizens to reach out to their representatives.

(vi) Checks and Balances: Bicameral legislature strengthens the system of checks and balances within the legislature by ensuring that one chamber can check the excesses of the other. This helps in preventing the abuse of power and promotes accountability within the legislative process, ensuring that laws passed are fair and balanced.

(vii) Quality of Legislation: The adoption of a bicameral legislature can improve the quality of laws made in a country. Since bills must pass through two chambers, they are subjected to thorough debate, amendments, and scrutiny, leading to the passage of well-considered laws that meet the needs of the country.

(viii) Desire for Stable Government: Bicameral legislatures are adopted to enhance the stability of government by promoting a wider consultation in the law-making process. It reduces the chances of enacting laws that could create conflict or dissatisfaction within the system. The existence of two chambers allows more participation in governance, thus promoting political stability and peace in the country.

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(3)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Promotion of Accountability in Government: Public opinion plays a crucial role in ensuring that government officials and public servants act responsibly. When citizens express their views about government policies, actions, or inactions, it puts pressure on leaders to be answerable for their decisions. Politicians seeking re-election are especially sensitive to public opinion because a negative public view can lead to electoral defeat. As a result, they tend to act more transparently and in the interest of the people.

(ii) Strengthening Democracy and Good Governance: In a democratic society, public opinion reflects the will and desires of the people. It allows citizens to participate in the political process by making their voices heard through various means such as voting, protests, debates, and media platforms. When governments listen to and act upon public opinion, it promotes inclusiveness, legitimacy, and democratic development, thereby enhancing political stability.

(iii) Influence on Decision-Making and Policy Formulation: Governments and policymakers often take public opinion into account when formulating laws or policies. For example, if there is widespread dissatisfaction with a proposed law, public outcry can lead to its amendment or complete withdrawal. This ensures that policies reflect the actual needs and interests of the people, rather than being imposed without consultation.

(iv) Check on Misuse of Power: Public opinion serves as a watchdog by exposing and condemning acts of corruption, oppression, injustice, or authoritarianism. When the public speaks against such issues, it can compel authorities to investigate and punish those involved. In this way, it helps reduce abuse of power and promotes a culture of responsibility and justice.

(v) Raising Awareness and Promoting Social Change: Through public discourse, important issues such as gender equality, climate change, human rights, and poverty can gain public attention. As more people become aware and express their views, the chances of meaningful change increase. For instance, public opinion has been key in pushing for reforms in education, police accountability, and electoral processes.

(vi) Encouragement of Political and Civic Participation: When individuals see that their opinions matter and can influence change, they are more likely to engage in civic duties such as voting, attending town hall meetings, joining political parties, or engaging in peaceful protests. This active involvement is essential for the health and growth of a democratic society.

(vii) Guidance for the Media and Public Institutions: Public opinion often shapes the focus of news coverage. Media houses, wanting to stay relevant and maintain audience interest, often highlight issues that are important to the public. Likewise, other institutions such as religious bodies, NGOs, and educational centers respond to public sentiment when addressing societal needs.

(viii) Contribution to Conflict Resolution: Public opinion can help resolve national disputes and promote unity. When citizens collectively express disapproval of violence, ethnic conflict, or injustice, it encourages dialogue and peaceful settlement. Leaders and conflict parties are more likely to listen and adjust their positions when they know the majority disapproves of their actions.

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(4)
(i) Drafting of the bill: The process of lawmaking begins with the drafting of the bill. A bill is a proposed law, and it can be drafted by a member of the legislature, the executive arm of government, or any relevant body or interest group. In most cases, legal experts, often from the Ministry of Justice or the legislature’s legal department, are responsible for putting the proposal into proper legal form. The draft must clearly state the objectives of the proposed law and the problems it intends to solve.

(ii) Presentation and first reading: After the bill is drafted, it is introduced to the legislative house (either the House of Representatives or the Senate). This stage is known as the first reading. During the first reading, the title and summary of the bill are read out loud to members of the House. There is no debate or discussion at this stage. The main purpose of this step is to give formal notice to members that the bill has been introduced and will be discussed in future sittings.

(iii) Second reading: The second reading is one of the most important stages in the legislative process. Here, the general principles, merits, and objectives of the bill are debated by members. Legislators take turns to express their views on whether the bill is necessary, beneficial, or problematic. After a thorough debate, a vote is taken. If the majority votes in favour of the bill, it progresses to the next stage. If rejected, the bill is dropped or suspended.

(iv) Committee stage: After passing the second reading, the bill is sent to a committee for detailed examination. The committee is usually made up of legislators who have expertise or an interest in the subject matter of the bill. The committee reviews each clause of the bill carefully and may suggest amendments. They may also invite experts, stakeholders, or the public to give their views on the bill. This stage allows for in-depth scrutiny and possible revision of the bill to ensure it is fit for purpose.

(v) Report stage: Once the committee has completed its work, it presents a report of its findings and recommendations to the whole house. At this point, the house considers the suggested amendments made by the committee. Each clause of the bill, including any new suggestions, is debated and either accepted or rejected. This stage allows members who were not part of the committee to contribute to the final shaping of the bill.

(vi) Third reading: The third reading is the final reading of the bill in the house where it was introduced. The bill, now in its revised form, is read again. At this stage, debate is usually minimal or absent, since the bill has already been thoroughly discussed. The focus here is to approve the final version. A vote is then taken, and if the majority supports it, the bill is passed and moved to the other chamber of the legislature for consideration.

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(5)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Political Instability: The annulment of the 1993 presidential election in Nigeria led to serious political instability nationwide. Many Nigerians felt betrayed by the military government’s decision, leading to violent protests, riots, and demonstrations across major cities. This instability created fear, disrupted governance structures, and weakened the people’s trust in the Nigerian political system.

(ii) Loss of Credibility of the Military Government: The annulment made Nigerians and the international community lose trust in the military government's promises of returning power to civilians. It exposed the government’s unwillingness to respect democratic processes, leading to criticism, loss of support, and increased opposition. Many saw the military as dishonest, power-hungry, and unreliable for democratic transition.

(iii) Economic Decline: Following the annulment, Nigeria’s economy suffered greatly as the political crisis discouraged local and foreign investors. Businesses were disrupted, inflation increased, and unemployment rose due to the unstable environment. The uncertainty in governance made economic planning difficult, and many foreign investors withdrew, leading to capital flight, reduced investments, and stunted economic growth.

(iv) Civil Unrest: There was widespread civil unrest, with many Nigerians engaging in protests and strikes demanding the restoration of the June 12 mandate. The government responded with force, leading to the arrest and detention of activists and journalists. This unrest created fear, disrupted daily activities, and damaged the nation’s peace, stability, and security environment.

(v) Emergence of Pro-Democracy Groups: The annulment led to the emergence and strengthening of pro-democracy groups in Nigeria, such as NADECO and other human rights movements. These groups advocated for the actualisation of MKO Abiola’s mandate and democratic governance. They created awareness, mobilised citizens, and mounted pressure on the military to hand over to a civilian government.

(vi) International Isolation: Nigeria faced international condemnation and sanctions due to the annulment, isolating the country diplomatically. Some Western nations suspended economic aid and imposed travel bans on Nigerian officials. This isolation affected Nigeria’s image globally, reduced foreign assistance, and made it difficult for the country to participate fully in international organisations and economic partnerships.

(vii) Delay in Democratic Transition: The annulment delayed Nigeria’s democratic transition, as the crisis forced General Babangida to step down, leading to the creation of an interim government under Ernest Shonekan. This government was later overthrown by General Sani Abacha, extending military rule in Nigeria, and delaying the transition to democratic civilian governance for several more years.

(viii) Loss of Lives and Properties: The protests and riots following the annulment led to the loss of many lives and properties across the country, particularly in the South-West region. Many people were killed, injured, or arrested during demonstrations, and businesses were destroyed. This caused hardship, fear, and deepened ethnic and regional tensions within the Nigerian society.

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(6)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Supremacy of the constitution: The Constitution is the highest legal authority in Nigeria. According to Section 1(1), any law or action that is inconsistent with the Constitution is null and void. This means that no person, institution, or arm of government can act above the Constitution.

(ii) Fundamental human rights: Chapter IV of the Constitution guarantees the fundamental human rights of all Nigerian citizens. These include the right to life, freedom of speech, right to personal liberty, freedom of religion, right to fair hearing, and freedom from discrimination. These rights are enforceable in court and help to protect individuals from abuse of power.

(iii) Federal system of government: The 1999 Constitution establishes Nigeria as a federal republic, dividing power among the federal, state, and local governments. It provides a clear separation of powers and responsibilities between the different levels of government through the exclusive, concurrent, and residual legislative lists.

(iv) Separation of powers: The Constitution provides for the separation of powers among the three arms of government: the Executive, the Legislature, and the Judiciary. Each arm is independent and performs specific functions to ensure checks and balances. For instance, the legislature makes laws, the executive enforces them, and the judiciary interprets them.

(v) Rule of Law: The Constitution upholds the principle of the rule of law, meaning that every person, including government officials, is subject to the law. It ensures that laws are applied equally and fairly, and protects the rights of citizens from arbitrary actions.

(vi) Democratic governance: The 1999 Constitution establishes Nigeria as a democratic state where government derives its authority from the people. It provides for regular elections, freedom of political association, formation of political parties, and voting rights for qualified citizens.

(vii) Citizenship provisions: The Constitution outlines how Nigerian citizenship is acquired which includes by birth, registration, or naturalization. It also guarantees the rights and responsibilities of citizens, including the right to vote and the duty to obey the laws of the land.

(viii) Creation of institutions and offices: The Constitution provides for the creation of key institutions and offices necessary for governance, such as the Office of the President, National Assembly, Governors, State Houses of Assembly, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Judiciary, and anti-corruption agencies.

(ix) Financial provisions and public revenue: It contains provisions for the management of public funds and revenue sharing among the three tiers of government. It also establishes offices such as the Auditor-General and the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission to oversee financial accountability.

(x) Amendment procedures: The 1999 Constitution also outlines the process for amending or altering its content. This process is complex and requires the approval of two-thirds of the National Assembly and two-thirds of State Houses of Assembly to prevent abuse and preserve national unity.

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(7)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Cold War Rivalry: The Cold War between the USA and USSR after World War II created tension globally. Many newly independent nations wanted to avoid being drawn into this rivalry. They formed the Non-Aligned Movement to remain neutral, preserve their independence, and avoid aligning with any of the two superpowers during the Cold War.

(ii) Desire for Independence: Many Asian and African countries had just gained independence from colonial rule and wanted to maintain their sovereignty and freedom. They formed the Non-Aligned Movement to protect their independence, avoid foreign domination, and prevent neocolonial control by powerful nations while focusing on their development and political stability.

(iii) Promotion of World Peace: The need to promote global peace and security was a major factor that led to the formation of the Non-Aligned Movement. The founders believed that by not aligning with any power bloc, they could contribute to reducing global tensions and conflicts, thereby promoting peaceful coexistence and international cooperation among nations.

(iv) Economic Development: Newly independent countries needed to focus on economic development without external interference. The Non-Aligned Movement provided a platform to push for economic cooperation, fair trade, and technical assistance among developing countries, ensuring they could improve their economies while maintaining independence from superpower economic pressures.

(v) Racial Equality: The struggle against racial discrimination and apartheid, especially in Africa and parts of Asia, motivated the formation of the Non-Aligned Movement. Member states aimed to support racial equality and human rights globally while providing a united voice against racial oppression and discrimination across the world, including in South Africa.

(vi) Opposing Colonialism: The desire to end colonial rule and support other countries fighting for independence influenced the creation of the Non-Aligned Movement. Member states wanted to work together to dismantle colonial systems, help oppressed people gain freedom, and prevent re-colonisation or neocolonial practices by stronger nations.

(vii) Bandung Conference of 1955: The Bandung Conference held in Indonesia in 1955, where leaders of Asian and African countries met, played a significant role in the formation of the Non-Aligned Movement. The conference encouraged unity, cooperation, and the need for a collective stand by developing nations against the dominance of powerful countries.

(viii) Preservation of Cultural Identity: Many newly independent nations desired to protect their cultural identities and avoid cultural imperialism from the superpowers. By forming the Non-Aligned Movement, these countries were able to defend their cultural values, traditions, and ways of life while maintaining independence from external cultural and political influence.

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(8)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Technical Assistance: Member countries of the Commonwealth receive valuable technical support in critical areas such as health, education, agriculture, and public administration. Experts from more developed member states are often sent to assist developing nations in building local capacity. This includes organising training workshops, developing local manpower, and advising on modern techniques to improve productivity, service delivery, and effective management of available resources within these sectors, thereby accelerating national development.

(ii) Educational Opportunities: The Commonwealth provides scholarships, fellowships, and student exchange programmes that benefit students, teachers, and professionals from member countries. These opportunities allow individuals to study in other member states, gain exposure to advanced educational systems, and conduct research in a conducive environment. This promotes intellectual development, knowledge sharing, and the acquisition of new skills, which can be applied to improve the educational and professional standards in the beneficiaries’ home countries.

(iii) Economic Cooperation and Trade Expansion: Member countries benefit from enhanced economic cooperation, as the Commonwealth encourages the promotion of trade, investment, and economic partnerships. This includes facilitating access to larger markets, technical expertise, and financial assistance, thereby supporting industrialisation and economic growth. By sharing ideas and resources, member states can overcome trade barriers, improve productivity, attract foreign investments, and increase employment opportunities, contributing to poverty reduction and sustainable development.

(iv) Promotion of Democracy and Good Governance: The Commonwealth plays a significant role in promoting democratic values and good governance across member countries. It sends election observers to monitor electoral processes to ensure free and fair elections while also offering advice on electoral reforms. Additionally, it encourages adherence to the rule of law, constitutional governance, and transparency, helping to build stable political systems that protect the rights of citizens and foster peaceful coexistence within member countries.

(v) Sports Development and Youth Engagement: Through initiatives like the Commonwealth Games, member countries promote sports development and youth engagement. These games provide a platform for athletes to showcase their talents, encouraging physical development and discipline among youths. The Commonwealth also supports youth empowerment programmes using sports to address issues such as drug abuse and social vices while promoting unity and cooperation among diverse nations through healthy sporting competition.

(vi) Cultural Exchange and Integration: The Commonwealth encourages cultural exchange and integration among its member states by promoting cultural programmes and festivals. These initiatives enable countries to share their traditions, languages, music, art, and values, fostering tolerance, respect, and appreciation of cultural diversity. It helps preserve cultural heritage while allowing member states to learn from each other’s cultural practices, contributing to the strengthening of relationships and mutual understanding among different peoples.

(vii) Conflict Resolution and Peace Promotion: Member countries benefit from the Commonwealth’s role in promoting peace and conflict resolution through dialogue and mediation. It helps in resolving disputes between or within member countries by providing diplomatic support and technical assistance to facilitate peaceful negotiations. By addressing conflicts proactively, the Commonwealth helps prevent escalation into violence, thus promoting stability, security, and peaceful coexistence, which are essential for national and regional development.

(viii) Human Rights Protection and Advocacy: The Commonwealth is committed to promoting and protecting fundamental human rights within its member states. It sets standards for human rights and monitors compliance while providing technical assistance to countries facing human rights challenges. The organisation encourages the enactment of laws and policies that protect freedoms and dignity, ensuring equality and justice for all citizens, thereby helping to create societies that are inclusive, fair, and safe for everyone.

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(9)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Bringing Government Closer to the People: Local government authorities are created to decentralise governance and ensure that government presence is felt at the grassroots. This makes it easier for citizens to access government services and engage with decision-making processes within their communities. It enables the people to have a voice in how they are governed and allows them to contribute ideas that can help in the formulation of policies that directly affect their lives, thereby fostering accountability and good governance.

(ii) Promoting Rural and Community Development: Local governments play a vital role in the development of rural and underdeveloped communities by providing basic social amenities and infrastructure such as roads, health centres, water supply, and schools. These authorities identify the specific needs of their communities and implement projects that address these needs, leading to an improvement in the standard of living. The provision of these services reduces rural-urban migration and contributes to balanced development across the country.

(iii) Enhancing Political Participation and Grassroots Democracy: Local government authorities provide a platform for grassroots democracy by allowing people to participate actively in the political process. Citizens can contest elections and vote for their local leaders, which strengthens the democratic system of the country. This participation gives individuals a sense of belonging and ownership in governance and helps in developing future leaders who understand local challenges, thereby promoting democratic values and civic responsibility within the society.

(iv) Reducing the Workload of State and Federal Governments: The establishment of local government authorities helps to reduce the workload of state and federal governments by allowing local councils to manage affairs peculiar to their areas. Issues such as waste management, local market supervision, minor road maintenance, and registration of births and deaths are handled effectively by local governments. This delegation of responsibilities enables higher levels of government to focus on broader issues like defence, foreign affairs, and national economic policies.

(v) Providing Employment and Economic Opportunities: Local governments serve as employers of labour within their jurisdictions, providing job opportunities for people in various capacities such as administration, healthcare, environmental management, and education. They also create an enabling environment for small and medium-scale enterprises to thrive through local licensing and market space provision. By providing jobs and supporting economic activities, local governments contribute to reducing poverty and enhancing the economic well-being of their communities.

(vi) Mobilisation and Utilisation of Local Resources: Local government authorities are strategically positioned to identify and mobilise local resources such as land, labour, and funds to implement community development projects. They generate revenue through local taxes, rates, and levies, which are used to fund development initiatives within their areas. By using these resources effectively, local governments can address specific local challenges and needs, leading to the sustainable development of their communities.

(vii) Effective Implementation of Policies and Programmes: Local governments play a significant role in ensuring that federal and state government policies and programmes are effectively implemented at the grassroots level. For instance, programmes such as primary healthcare delivery, immunisation campaigns, and agricultural extension services are coordinated through local governments to reach the intended beneficiaries. Their presence in local areas ensures that these policies are adapted to local conditions and the needs of the people are properly addressed.

(viii) Maintenance of Law, Order, and Security: Local government authorities contribute to maintaining law and order within their communities by enacting bye-laws to regulate activities in the localities. They collaborate with traditional institutions and security agencies to resolve conflicts and disputes, ensuring that peace and stability are maintained. By addressing security concerns promptly at the local level, they help to prevent minor issues from escalating into serious conflicts, thereby creating a peaceful environment conducive to development.

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(10)
(PICK ANY SIX)
(i) Independent Electoral Body: A free and fair election requires an independent and impartial electoral commission, such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which is free from political interference or government control. This independence enables it to organise, supervise, and conduct elections transparently, ensuring that election results truly reflect the will of the people without manipulation or bias.

(ii) Adequate Security: For elections to be free and fair in Nigeria, there must be adequate and effective security arrangements provided by neutral security agencies to prevent violence, intimidation, ballot box snatching, and other forms of electoral malpractice. The presence of security also assures voters of safety, encouraging their active participation and maintaining peace throughout the election process.

(iii) Voter Education: Proper and continuous voter education is necessary to ensure free and fair elections in Nigeria, as it enlightens citizens on voting procedures, electoral laws, and the importance of their votes. Educated voters are less prone to manipulation, can identify and resist electoral fraud, and are prepared to participate effectively in the democratic process during elections.

(iv) Secrecy of the Ballot: Ensuring the secrecy of the ballot is a key condition for conducting a free and fair election in Nigeria. It allows voters to cast their votes in private without external influence, threats, or fear of victimisation. Secrecy of the ballot strengthens voters' confidence in the system, protecting their choice and ensuring true democracy.

(v) Equal and Universal Adult Suffrage:
For elections to be free and fair, all adult citizens who meet the voting requirements should be allowed to vote and be voted for without discrimination based on gender, religion, ethnicity, or social status. Equal suffrage ensures inclusiveness, fair representation, and legitimacy in the electoral process, making all citizens feel part of governance.

(vi) Accurate Voters Register: A credible, accurate, and updated voters register is important for the conduct of free and fair elections in Nigeria. It prevents electoral malpractices such as multiple voting, underage voting, and voting by non-existent individuals. An accurate register also builds trust and confidence in the electoral process, ensuring that only eligible voters can participate in elections.

(vii) Availability of Electoral Materials: Availability and timely distribution of electoral materials such as ballot boxes, ballot papers, and voter registers are essential for free and fair elections in Nigeria. This prevents delays, disorganisation, and disenfranchisement of voters. Proper provision of materials also ensures that voting can proceed smoothly and within the stipulated time across all polling centres nationwide.

(viii) Impartial Judiciary: The existence of an impartial and independent judiciary is critical for a free and fair election, as it provides a platform for addressing electoral disputes fairly and promptly. When the judiciary is unbiased, it ensures that petitions and complaints arising from elections are handled judiciously, promoting peace, stability, and confidence in the democratic process and rule of law.