CIVIC EDUCATION

THEME – PILLARS OF DEMOCRACY

CLASS – SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS (SS 1)

 

TOPIC – THE MAJOR PILLARS OF DEMOCRACY III

LEARNING AREA – THE STRONG INSTITUTIONS 

1. Civic Societies

2. Free Press

3. Pressure Groups

4. Political Parties

 

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: discuss the strong institution such as civic societies, free press, pressure groups and political parties.

 

CONTENTS OF THE LESSON

NIGERIA CIVIC SOCIETIES 

Civic societies are organizations and groups made up of individuals who come together to work towards the common good and promote civic engagement, social justice, and public welfare in their communities. They may focus on issues such as advocacy, community development, education, human rights, democracy, and environmental protection. Civic societies play an important role in promoting social involvement, citizenship, and active participation in public life.

 

EXAMPLES OF CIVIC SOCIETIES

The organizations below are actively engaged in advocacy, policy research, human rights protection, governance reform, and social development activities in Nigeria.

1. Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), being Nigeria’s first human rights organisation

2. Constitutional Rights Project (CRP), Committee for the Defence of Human Rights

3. Campaign for Democracy (CD) – The Campaign for Democracy (CD) is a Nigerian civil society group that advocates for greater democracy in Nigeria. The group was first organized in the early 1990s to demand an end to the country’s military dictatorship.

4. National Democratic Coalition (NDC)

5. Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) – CISLAC is a non-governmental organization in Nigeria that focuses on advocacy and policy reform in areas such as anti-corruption, governance, human rights, and public finance management.

6. Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) – CDD is a research and advocacy organization in Nigeria that focuses on promoting democracy, good governance, and security in West Africa. They conduct research, monitor elections, and engage in advocacy efforts to strengthen democratic institutions.

7. Women’s Rights and Health Project (WRAHP) – WRAHP is a grassroots organization in Nigeria that works to promote and protect the rights of women and girls, particularly in the areas of reproductive health, gender-based violence, and advocacy for gender equality.

8. Enough is Enough Nigeria (EiE) – EiE is a youth-led organization in Nigeria that focuses on promoting good governance, civic engagement, and advocating for social justice and accountability. They organize campaigns, events, and advocacy efforts to mobilize citizens for positive change.

9. BudgIT – BudgIT is a civic tech organization in Nigeria that focuses on promoting transparency and accountability in public finance management. They use technology to simplify and visualize government budgets and spending to increase citizen engagement and awareness.

10. Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD)

11. Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP)

12. Human Rights Watch Nigeria

13. Nigeria Network of NGOs (NNNGO)

14. ActionAid Nigeria

15. Transparency International Nigeria

16. Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD)

17. Centre for Environment, Human Rights and Development (CEHRD)

18. YIAGA Africa

19. Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF)

20. Community Life Project (CLP)

21. Development Alternatives and Resource Center (DARC)

22. Media Rights Agenda (MRA)

23. Change Women’s Initiative Nigeria (CWIN)

 

THE ROLES OF CIVIC SOCIETIES

Civic societies play an important role in promoting and protecting the rights and interests of citizens. They act as a voice for the community, advocating for social justice, equality, and accountability from government and other institutions. Some of the key roles of civic societies include:

1. Advocacy – Civic societies work to ensure that the voices of citizens are heard and respected. They advocate for policy changes that benefit the community and address social issues.

2. Public Education – Civic societies provide information and resources to the public on important issues and help raise awareness on different matters affecting society.

3. Community Building – Civic societies bring people together, fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity among members of the community. They provide a platform for citizens to engage with one another and work towards common goals.

4. Monitoring Government – Civic societies hold government officials accountable for their actions and policies. They help ensure transparency and integrity in governance by monitoring and reporting on the activities of elected officials.

5. Service Provision – Civic societies may also provide direct services to the community, such as running social programs, organizing events, or offering support to various community groups.

In summary, civic societies play a vital role in promoting democracy, social responsibility, and collective action among citizens. They help empower individuals to become active participants in shaping the future of their communities and society as a whole.

 

THE PROBLEMS OF CIVIC SOCIETIES

1. Lack of Participation – One common problem in civic societies is the lack of active participation and engagement from community members. This can result in limited representation and voice in decision-making processes.

2. Inequality and Exclusion – Civic societies may face challenges related to inequality and exclusion, where certain groups or individuals are marginalized and do not have equal access to resources, opportunities, or representation.

3. Lack of Transparency and Accountability – Some civic societies struggle with issues related to transparency and accountability, where decision-making processes are not transparent, and there is a lack of oversight and mechanisms for holding leaders and institutions accountable.

4. Fragmentation and Division – Civic societies can be fragmented and divided along various lines, such as political, social, or economic, leading to challenges in working together to address common issues and achieving collective goals.

5. Limited Resources and Capacity – Many civic societies operate with limited resources and capacity, making it difficult to effectively address complex issues and carry out meaningful initiatives.

6. Polarization and Extremism – In some cases, civic societies may experience polarization and extremism, where differing views and ideologies lead to conflict, division, and a lack of cooperation in addressing common challenges.

7. Lack of Trust and Cohesion – Building trust and cohesion within civic societies can be challenging, particularly in environments where there is a lack of social cohesion, mutual respect, and shared values. This can hinder collaboration and collective action.

 

FREE PRESS

A free press refers to the ability of media organizations to operate independently and report on news and events without government interference or censorship. It allows journalists to investigate and report on stories without fear of reprisal, providing vital information to the public in a democracy.

It is also the right to publish and disseminate information, thoughts, and opinions without restricted by government censorship in political or ideological matters. A free press is essential for a functioning democracy and for upholding the principles of freedom of speech and expression. It is a cornerstone of a free society and a bulwark against authoritarianism and government abuse.

The importance of a free press cannot be overstated. It serves as a watchdog over government officials and institutions, holding them accountable for their actions and decisions. A free press plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency, providing diverse viewpoints, and promoting informed public debate.

A free press also serves as a check on power, as it can expose corruption, abuse of power, and human rights violations. It helps to inform citizens about key issues and events, allowing them to make informed decisions and participate in the democratic process. In times of crisis or emergencies, a free press can provide crucial information and updates to the public.

 

THE ROLES (IMPORTANCE) OF A FREE PRESS

A free press is not only a pillar of democracy but also a cornerstone of a free and open society. It serves as a guardian of the public interest, promotes accountability and transparency, and upholds fundamental rights and values. A free press is essential for a healthy, informed, and democratic society.

The importance of a free press in society cannot be overstated. Here are some key reasons why a free press is essential:

1. Accountability – A free press acts as a watchdog over government officials, institutions, and powerful individuals, holding them accountable for their actions and decisions. Journalists investigate and report on issues that may otherwise go unnoticed, exposing corruption, abuse of power, and unethical behavior.

2. Transparency – A free press promotes transparency by providing information and insights into key issues, events, and policies. This helps to ensure that the public is informed and can make educated choices in a democracy.

3. Freedom of Speech – A free press is essential for upholding the freedom of speech and expression. Journalists must be able to report on a range of topics, share diverse viewpoints, and criticize those in power without fear of censorship or reprisal.

4. Democracy – A free press is fundamental to a functioning democracy. It allows citizens to stay informed, participate in public discourse, and hold their government accountable. Without a free press, citizens may be deprived of vital information necessary for informed decision-making.

5. Human Rights – A free press plays a crucial role in upholding human rights by shining a light on abuses, injustices, and violations of rights. It gives a voice to marginalized communities, exposes systemic injustices, and advocates for social change.

6. Public Trust – A free press helps to build public trust by providing accurate, unbiased, and reliable information. Journalists adhere to ethical standards and fact-checking processes to ensure the credibility of their reporting.

 

PROBLEMS OF FREE PRESS

The problems of free press are follow –

1. Bias and Misinformation – The media can sometimes be biased in its reporting, leading to the spread of misinformation and the shaping of public opinion in a certain direction.

2. Sensationalism and Sensationalizing News – Some media outlets prioritize sensational stories over more substantive news, leading to a focus on sensationalism rather than important issues.

3. Lack of Diversity in Media Ownership – Concentration of media ownership in the hands of a few powerful individuals or corporations can limit the diversity of viewpoints and perspectives presented in the media.

4. Manipulation by Special Interests – Powerful special interests can use their financial resources to manipulate and control media narratives, influencing public opinion and policy decisions.

5. Pressure from Government – Governments can exert pressure on the media to promote their own agenda or suppress dissenting voices, undermining the independence and freedom of the press.

6. Threats to Journalists – Journalists and media personnel can face threats, intimidation, and violence in their pursuit of truth and accountability, leading to self-censorship and a chilling effect on free speech.

7. Lack of Accountability – There is often limited accountability for media outlets that spread false or misleading information, leading to the erosion of trust in the media and the spread of disinformation.

 

PRESSURE GROUPS

Pressure group is the group of people that tries to influence the policies or decisions of government. Pressure groups are organizations or individuals that seek to influence or shape public policy and decision-making processes. They usually have specific aims or objectives and work towards achieving those goals by lobbying government officials, organizing campaigns, raising public awareness, and engaging in advocacy efforts. Pressure groups can take various forms, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), advocacy groups, trade unions, industry associations, and interest groups.

 

THE ROLES OF PRESSURE GROUPS

Pressure groups are an important part of a democratic society, serving as advocates for specific interests and causes and contributing to public debate and decision-making. While they can sometimes face criticism for being overly influential or representing narrow interests, pressure groups play a valuable role in shaping public policies and promoting a more inclusive and particip atory democracy as stated below –

1. Representation – Pressure groups represent the interests and concerns of particular groups of people or stakeholders. They seek to advance the needs of their members or supporters through influencing government policies or decisions.

2. Influence – Pressure groups aim to influence policymakers, legislators, and other decision-making bodies to support their causes or enact specific measures. They may use various tactics, such as lobbying, public campaigns, petitions, and demonstrations, to pressure policymakers to act in their favor.

3. Diversity – Pressure groups cover a wide range of issues and interests, including environmental protection, human rights, social justice, labor rights, business interests, and more. They reflect the diversity of opinions and concerns within a society.

4. Accountability – Pressure groups play a crucial role in holding government officials and institutions accountable. By monitoring and scrutinizing policy decisions, pressure groups help ensure transparency and accountability in the democratic process.

5. Public Participation – Pressure groups provide a platform for public participation in governance and decision-making processes. They give voice to marginalized or underrepresented groups and allow individuals to express their views and concerns on important issues.

6. Checks and Balances – Pressure groups serve as a check on governmental power and influence, providing alternative viewpoints and perspectives that may not be considered by policymakers. They help balance the influence of powerful interests and ensure that a diversity of voices is heard in the policymaking process.

 

PROBLEMS OF PRESSURE GROUP

1. Lack of Representation – Some pressure groups may only represent the interests of a small or specific subset of the population, leading to the exclusion of other important voices and perspectives.

2. Limited Access – Some pressure groups may have more resources and power than others, making it difficult for smaller or less well-funded groups to have their voices heard.

3. Influence of Money – Pressure groups with strong financial backing may be able to exert more influence on policymakers and decision-makers, potentially leading to the prioritization of their interests over those of others.

4. Lack of Transparency – Some pressure groups may operate behind closed doors, making it difficult for the public to understand their motivations and agendas.

5. Extremism – Some pressure groups may espouse extreme or divisive ideologies, leading to polarization and conflict within society.

6. Undue Influence – Some pressure groups may wield disproportionate influence over policymakers, leading to decisions that may not be in the best interests of the wider public.

7. Lack of Accountability – Some pressure groups may not be accountable to the public or subject to oversight, raising concerns about their motives and actions.

 

POLITICAL PARTIES 

Political parties are groups of people that work to be in charge of a government through election. They are organized groups of people who share similar political beliefs and ideologies, and who work together to gain political power and influence government decisions. For example the president, government, local government chairman, etc. These parties (candidates) compete in elections at the national, state, and local levels in Nigeria.

Political parties typically seek to win elections and have their members elected to various government offices in order to implement their agenda and policies. Political parties serve as a link between the government and the public, by promoting their vision for the country, mobilizing voters, engaging in political campaigns, and representing the interests of their members and supporters. In a democratic system, political parties play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape and governing the country.

Some of the major political parties in Nigeria include:

1. All Progressives Congress (APC)

2. People’s Democratic Party (PDP)

3. All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)

4. Labour Party

5. Social Democratic Party (SDP)

6. African Democratic Congress (ADC)

7. Young Progressive Party (YPP)

8. Action Democratic Party (ADP)

9. Accord Party

10. Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN)

 

ADVANTAGES OF POLITICAL PARTIES

1. Representation – Political parties represent and aggregate the interests and opinions of various groups within society. They provide a platform for individuals with similar ideas to come together and work towards their common goals.

2. Political Stability – Political parties play a crucial role in maintaining political stability by providing organized and structured institutions for people to participate in the political process and resolve conflicts through democratic means.

3. Accountability – Political parties help hold elected officials accountable to their constituents by monitoring their actions, policies, and decisions. This helps ensure transparency and promotes good governance.

4. Policy Formulation – Political parties develop and promote policy platforms based on their ideologies and principles. They provide voters with a clear choice of different policy options during elections.

5. Education and Mobilization – Political parties educate voters about political issues, mobilize support for their candidates, and encourage civic engagement, thereby increasing political awareness and participation.

 

DISADVANTAGES OF POLITICAL PARTIES

1. Polarization – Political parties can create divisions within society along ideological lines, leading to polarization and gridlock in the political system.

2. Infighting and Factionalism – Internal conflicts and power struggles within political parties can weaken their effectiveness and credibility, and distract from their primary goals of serving the public.

3. Influence of Special Interests – Political parties may become excessively influenced by special interest groups, leading to policies that benefit a narrow segment of society at the expense of the broader public interest.

4. Lack of Diversity – Political parties may limit the representation of diverse voices and perspectives within society, promoting groupthink and excluding minority viewpoints.

5. Lack of Innovation – Political parties’ adherence to fixed ideologies and party platforms can hinder innovation and the adoption of new ideas and solutions to contemporary challenges.

 

LESSON PRESENTATION

TEACHER’S ACTIVITIES

The teacher,

1. discusses the strong institution such as civic societies, free press, pressure groups and political parties.

2. summarizes the lesson on the board.

 

STUDENT’S ACTIVITIES

The students,

1. discuss the strong institution such as civic societies, free press, pressure groups and political parties.

2. copy notes as summarize on the board.

 

LESSON EVALUATION

Teacher asks students to discuss five (5) roles and five (5) problems the strong institution such as –

1. civic societies

2. free press

3. pressure groups

4. political parties.