CIVIC EDUCATION

THEME – PILLARS OF DEMOCRACY

CLASS – SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS (SS 1)

 

TOPIC – THE MAJOR PILLARS OF DEMOCRACY I

LEARNING AREA 

1. Meaning and Types of Constitution

2. Arms of Government Systems

3. System of Government – Federalism, State and Local Governments

4. Nigerian System of Government

 

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

1. Nigerian constitution

2. Textbooks

3. Charts

4. Video tapes

 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. define and explain the constitution.

2. define and explain federalism, state and local government.

 

CONTENTS OF THE LESSON

INTRODUCTION

A constitution is the body of rules and regulations that define the power government, the relationship between the agencies of the government, duties and responsibilities of the citizens.

A constitution is a set of fundamental principles or established precedents according to which a state or other organization is governed. It is a document that outlines the structure, powers, and processes of a government and establishes the rights and duties of its citizens.

 

TYPES OF CONSTITUTION 

There are several types of constitutions, including:

1. Written Constitution – A written constitution is a formal and written document that outlines the structure of a government and the rights of its citizens. It is typically codified and is often the supreme law of the land.

2. Unwritten Constitution – An unwritten constitution refers to a set of rules and principles that are not contained in a single document but are instead derived from various sources, such as statutes, judicial decisions, and conventions that mostly not written.

3. Codified Constitution – A codified constitution is a single document that contains all the fundamental principles and rules of a government. It is typically entrenched, meaning that it is difficult to amend.

4. Uncodified Constitution – An uncodified constitution consists of a collection of laws, statutes, and conventions that together make up the fundamental rules of a government.

5. Federal Constitution – A federal constitution outlines the division of powers between a central government and regional governments within a federal system of government.

6. Unitary Constitution – A unitary constitution consolidates all powers within a central government, without any division of powers between central and regional governments.

7. Flexible Constitution – A flexible constitution is one that can be amended through regular legislative processes, without any special requirements for amendment.

8. Rigid Constitution – A rigid constitution is one that can only be amended through special procedures that are more difficult than regular legislative processes.

 

ARMS OF GOVERNMENT

The arms of government refers to the three branches of government in a typical democratic system of governance. The separation of powers into these three branches is a key principle of democratic governance, as it helps to prevent any one arm from gaining too much power and becoming tyrannical.

The arms of government are designed to provide a system of checks and balances, whereby each branch is able to limit the powers of the others and ensure that the government operates in a fair and effective manner.

There are three branches who work together to govern –

1. Executive – The executive is responsible for implementing and enforcing laws. This branch includes the president or prime minister, as well as the cabinet and various government agencies. The executive branch is tasked with overseeing the day-to-day operations of government, managing foreign relations, and directing the military.

2. Legislative – The legislative is responsible for making laws. This branch typically consists of a parliament, congress, or other legislative body that is elected by the people. The legislative branch is responsible for drafting, debating, and passing legislation, as well as overseeing government finances and conducting investigations.

3. Judicial – The judicial is responsible for interpreting and applying laws. This branch includes the courts and judges, who are tasked with ensuring that laws are applied fairly and consistently. The judicial branch also has the authority to review the actions of the other branches of government and determine whether they are in accordance with the constitution.

 

SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT 

A system of government refers to the way in which a country or political entity is organized and operates. There are several different types of systems of government, each with its own structure, processes, and distribution of power. Some common systems of government include:

There are three main systems of government,

1. Unitary system

2. Federal system

3. Confederate system

 

UNITARY SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT

A unitary system of government is a system in which all governmental powers are concentrated in a single central authority. In a unitary system, the central government has the ultimate authority to make decisions and govern the entire country or political entity. Local or regional governments exist, but their powers are delegated to them by the central government and can be revoked or altered at any time.

Examples of countries with unitary systems of government include Japan, France, and the United Kingdom. In these countries, the central government holds significant authority over administrative divisions and local governments, which operate under the rules and regulations set by the central government.

 

CHARACTERISTICS OF UNITARY SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT

The characteristics of a unitary system of government include:

1. Centralized Power – The central government has the primary authority to make laws, levy taxes, allocate resources, and provide public services. Local governments, if they exist, usually have limited powers and serve as administrative units that implement policies set by the central government.

2. Uniformity – A unitary system typically promotes uniformity in laws, regulations, and policies across the entire country. This helps to ensure consistency and coherence in governance and administration.

3. Flexibility – Unitary power is centralized in a unitary system, the central government can respond quickly to national issues, crises, or emergencies without the need for coordination with multiple levels of government.

4. Hierarchical Structure – In a unitary system, the relationship between the central government and local governments is hierarchical, with the central government being the top authority. Local governments may have limited autonomy and decision-making powers, which are subject to the control and supervision of the central government.

 

FEDERAL SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT

A federal system of government is a type of political system in which a central government shares power with regional governments or states. In this system, the central government has specific powers, while the regional governments (state and local governments as case in Nigeria) have their own set of powers that they can exercise independently.

This system allows for a division of powers and responsibilities between the central government and the regional governments, providing a balance between a strong central authority and local autonomy. Examples of countries with federal systems of government include the Nigeria, United States, Canada, Australia, and Germany.

In a federal system of government, power is divided between a central government and regional or state governments. Each level of government has its own set of powers and responsibilities, and they often share authority over certain areas of governance.

 

CHARACTERISTICS OF FEDERAL SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT

The characteristics of a federal system of government include:

1. Division of Powers – In a federal system, powers are divided between the central government and the regional governments or states. Each level of government has its own set of powers and responsibilities, which are clearly outlined in the constitution.

2. Autonomy of Regional Governments – Regional governments or states in a federal system have a certain level of autonomy and authority to make decisions on matters that affect their jurisdiction. They have the ability to enact laws, regulations, and policies that are specific to their region.

3. Constitutionally Protected Rights – The division of powers in a federal system is usually enshrined in a written constitution, which serves as the supreme law of the land. This constitution outlines the powers of each level of government and protects the rights of individuals and the states.

4. Dual Citizenship – Citizens in a federal system are generally considered to be citizens of both the central government and their respective state or region. They may have dual citizenship rights, such as the ability to vote in both federal and state elections.

5. Independent Judiciary – A federal system typically includes an independent judiciary that interprets and enforces the laws of both the central government and the regional governments. The judiciary acts as a check on the powers of the various levels of government.

6. Cooperative Relations – The central government and regional governments in a federal system are expected to cooperate and work together on certain issues, such as national defense, foreign policy, and economic matters. This can lead to a system of shared decision-making and collaboration.

7. Resilience – Federal systems are often seen as more resilient than unitary systems, as power is dispersed among multiple levels of government. This can help prevent the concentration of power in one central authority and provide for greater stability and flexibility in  governance.

 

CONFEDERAL SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT

A confederal system of government is a system in which sovereign states or regions come together to form a loose alliance or association for the purpose of common goals or objectives. In a confederal system, the central authority is limited and derives its power from the individual states or regions.

 

CHARACTERISTICS OF CONFEDERAL SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT

The characteristics of a confederal system of government include:

1. Sovereign States – In a confederal system, sovereign states or regions retain their full sovereignty and have complete control over their own affairs. The central authority only has powers that have been explicitly granted to it by the individual states.

2. Limited Central Authority – The central government in a confederal system is typically weak and has limited powers. It may only handle certain specific functions that have been delegated to it by the member states, such as defense or foreign affairs.

3. Voluntary Association – A confederal system is based on voluntary association, with member states joining together for mutual benefit or common goals. States can choose to leave the confederation if they feel their interests are not being served.

4. Decentralized Decision-making – Decision-making in a confederal system is decentralized, with individual states or regions having significant autonomy and authority in governing their own affairs. The central authority may act as a forum for coordination and cooperation among the member states.

5. Weak Enforcement Mechanisms – In a confederal system, the central government may lack strong enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with its decisions. Member states may have the ability to disregard or reject decisions made by the central authority.

6. Inter-State Relations – Inter-state relations play a crucial role in a confederal system, as member states must cooperate and negotiate with each other to address common challenges or achieve shared objectives. Diplomacy and consensus-building are important components of confederal governance.

7. Potential for Disintegration – One of the inherent risks of a confederal system is the potential for disintegration or dissolution if member states decide to withdraw or if disagreements among states lead to a breakdown in cooperation. Maintaining unity and cohesion can be a challenge in a confederal system.

 

OTHER SYSTEMS OF GOVERNMENT

Other systems of government are –

1. Democracy – In a democracy, power is vested in the people, who elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. There are two main forms of democracy: direct democracy, where citizens participate directly in decision-making, and representative democracy, where elected officials make decisions on behalf of the people.

2. Monarchy – In a monarchy, power is held by a single ruler, such as a king, queen, emperor, or emir. Monarchies can be hereditary, where power is passed down through the royal family, or constitutional, where the monarch’s powers are limited by a constitution or parliament.

3. Republic – In a republic, power is held by elected representatives who govern on behalf of the people. A republic may have a president as its head of state, who is elected for a specific term, rather than a monarch.

4. Authoritarianism – In an authoritarian system of government, power is concentrated in the hands of a single leader or a small group of individuals, who maintain control through force or manipulation. Authoritarian regimes often restrict political freedoms and limit the participation of citizens in government.

6. Theocracy – In a theocracy, religious leaders hold political power and govern according to religious principles or laws. Theocracy is based on the belief that governance should be guided by divine authority.

 

NIGERIAN SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT

1. Federal Government

2. State Government

3. Local Government

 

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

The federal government is the highest level of government and is responsible for overseeing the entire country. It is responsible for regulating interstate commerce, conducting foreign relations, and providing national defense.

The federal government is made up of three branches: the executive branch (headed by the President), the legislative branch (Senate), and the judicial branch (Supreme Court). Federal laws apply to the entire country and supersede state and local laws in areas of conflict. The federal government has authority over the entire country.

 

FUNCTIONS OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 

The functions of the federal government in Nigeria are outlined in the country’s Constitution and include the following:

1. Security and Defense – The federal government is responsible for ensuring the security and defense of the nation. This includes maintaining the armed forces, police, and other security agencies to protect the country from internal and external threats.

2. Foreign Affairs and Diplomacy – The federal government represents Nigeria in international relations and is responsible for managing diplomatic relations with other countries and international organizations. This includes negotiating treaties, agreements, and trade deals on behalf of the country.

3. National Defense – The federal government is responsible for the defense and protection of the country’s territorial integrity, borders, and citizens. This includes providing defense against external aggression, as well as maintaining internal security and combating terrorism, insurgency, and other threats.

4. Legislation – The federal government has the authority to make laws, enact policies, and regulations that govern the entire country. This includes passing laws on issues such as taxation, trade, education, health, and other areas of national importance.

5. Economic Management – The federal government is responsible for managing the country’s economy, including setting fiscal and monetary policies, regulating industries, and promoting economic growth and development. This includes overseeing the national budget, public spending, and financial institutions.

6. Social Development – The federal government is responsible for providing essential services and programs in areas such as education, healthcare, social welfare, housing, and infrastructure development. This includes funding and overseeing public schools, hospitals, social security programs, and public works projects.

7. Judiciary – The federal government has the responsibility to ensure the administration of justice and uphold the rule of law. This includes supervising the judiciary, appointing judges, and ensuring that the legal system operates fairly and efficiently.

8. National Unity and Integration – The federal government is responsible for promoting national unity, diversity, and integration among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious groups. This includes upholding the principles of federalism, ensuring equitable representation and distribution of resources, and addressing issues of social justice and equality.

 

STATE GOVERNMENT

State governments have authority over the individual states in the country. State governments are responsible for areas such as education, transportation, public safety, and healthcare within their state boundaries. Each state has its own constitution, governor, legislature, and court system. State laws apply only within the state’s borders and cannot conflict with federal laws.

 

FUNCTIONS OF STATE GOVERNMENT

State governments play a vital role in governing and serving the residents of their states, working in concert with the federal government and local governments to ensure the well-being and functioning of society. The functions of state government in the United States vary slightly from state to state, but they generally include the following:

1. Enact and Enforce Laws – State governments have the authority to create laws that apply within their state boundaries, as long as those laws do not conflict with the U.S. Constitution. State legislatures pass bills that are signed into law by the governor, and state agencies enforce those laws.

2. Provide Public Safety and Law Enforcement – State governments are responsible for maintaining public safety and order within their states. This includes funding and overseeing police departments, fire departments, and emergency services.

3. Education –  State governments are responsible for overseeing the public education system within their states. This includes funding public schools, setting curriculum standards, and regulating teacher certification.

4. Transportation – State governments are responsible for building and maintaining highways, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure within their states. They also regulate public transportation systems such as buses and trains.

5. Public Health – State governments are responsible for promoting public health and safety within their states. This includes funding and overseeing public health departments, licensing healthcare providers, and regulating healthcare facilities.

6. Social Services – State governments provide a wide range of social services to residents, including public assistance programs, childcare services, and support for the elderly and disabled.

7. Natural Resources and Environmental Protection – State governments are responsible for managing and protecting natural resources within their states, including waterways, forests, and wildlife. They also regulate pollution and enforce environmental laws.

8. Budget and Taxation – State governments are responsible for creating and managing their budgets, which are funded through a combination of state taxes, federal funds, and other revenue sources. State legislatures pass budgets that allocate funds for various state programs and services.

 

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Local governments are the closest level of government to the people and operate within specific cities, counties, or municipalities. They are responsible for providing essential services to residents, such as police and fire protection, public schools, and local public works projects.

Local governments are organized in a variety of ways, including city councils, county commissions, and townships. Local laws only apply within the specific jurisdiction of the local government and must comply with both state and federal laws.

 

FUNCTIONS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Local governments play a crucial role in providing essential services and fostering a sense of community well-being. Some of the key functions of local government include:

1. Providing Basic Services – Local governments are responsible for providing basic public services to their communities such as water supply, sanitation, waste management, public transportation, and roads.

2. Maintenance of Infrastructure – Local governments are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of key infrastructure in their communities, including buildings, parks, playgrounds, and community centers.

3. Public Safety – Local governments play a critical role in ensuring public safety by providing emergency services such as police and fire protection.

4. Planning and Zoning – Local governments are responsible for regulating land use through zoning ordinances and comprehensive planning to ensure orderly development and protect the environment.

5. Economic Development – Local governments often work to promote economic development in their communities by attracting businesses, creating jobs, and supporting local industries.

6. Social Services – Local governments may also provide social services such as housing assistance, welfare programs, and support for vulnerable populations.

7. Public Health – Local governments are responsible for protecting public health through initiatives such as vaccinations, disease prevention, and environmental health regulations.

8. Education – While education is primarily the responsibility of state governments, local governments often play a role in funding and oversight of local schools and educational programs.

9. Community Engagement – Local governments serve as a platform for community members to engage in decision-making processes, provide feedback, and participate in local governance.

10. Representation – Local governments represent the interests of their communities at the regional, state, and national levels, advocating for policies and resources that benefit their residents.

 

 

LESSON PRESENTATION

TEACHER’S ACTIVITIES

The teacher,

1. guides students to define and explain the meaning of constitution.

2. guides students to examine federalism, state and local governments.

3. summary the lesson on the board.

 

STUDENT’S ACTIVITIES

The students,

1. Define and explain the types of constitution.

2. define and explain the meaning of federalism, state and local governments,

3. copy the lesson on the board.

 

LESSON EVALUATION

Teacher asks students to,

1. define and explain constitution

2. define and explain federalism, state and local governments.

3. state and explain the functions of federal, state and local government.