WEEK 1

SECONDARY
School: CHSVGC
Term: First term
Session: 2024/2025
Subject: Civic Education
Class: Year 12
Period: 3
 WEEK 1
SCHEME OF WORK
Week 1 Public Service 1 Week 6 Popular Participation 11
Definition: characteristics and functions Need/ importance of popular
of civil service participation, Traditional &
Modern.
Week 2 Public service 11 Week 7 MID-TERM BREAK
Reasons for short comings in
Public service. Ways of
improvement.
Week 3 Civil Society 1 Week 8 Rule of Law 1
Definition: Functions and need for civil Definition, features and
society. importance of rule law.
Week 4 Civil Society 11 Week 9 Rule of Law 11
Principles, qualities/characteristic Process of rule of law,
of civil society and instruments problems/limitations of rule of
used by civil society groups. law.
Week 5 Popular Participation 1 Week 10 Current Affairs
Definition of popular participation National, international and socio-
political issues
 WEEK 1
TOPIC: Public Service 1
SUB-TOPIC:
Period 1: Public Service 1
Definition: meaning of civil service characteristics.
Period 2: Functions of Civil Service, Structure of the public
service in Nigeria.
Period 3: Ways which Public service/Civil service commission
contributes to the effective operation of Public service in
Nigeria
3
INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

4
SUGGESTED DIFFERENTIATION STRATEGIES:
1. Students are to work in four groups of ability
streaming.
2. Mention and discuss the structure of public
service in Nigeria
3. Explain why Nigeria public service
commission is different from that of USA
MEANING OF PUBLIC SERVICE
Definitions:
This is a department in executive arm of government
responsible for the implementation of policies and
programmes of government.
It is also an organised body consisting of public servants and
other appointed officials that provide essential services for the
citizens of the country.
It could also be defined as the totality of administrative
structures within which the programmes of government is implemented.
Examples are armed forces, the Police, Public Corporations and
government owned companies. Their workers are called public
servants.
PRINCIPLES OR CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE
1. Permanence: The service is permanent even when government
changes.
2. Neutrality: They are politically neutral, not to participate in partisan
politics.
3. Anonymity: They are to be seen but not to speak to the press about
official matters. They are not to be held responsible for their actions.
4. Impartiality: They are to serve any government in power without bias.
5. Expertise: They are to possess a measure of expert knowledge and
intelligence
6. Merits/Achievement: Recruitment is based on merit not on quota or
federal character or favouritism
7. Bureaucracy/Red-Tapism: They follow rules and regulations contained
in the General Order ( G.O.)
 WEEK 1
:THE STRUCTURE OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE IN NIGERIA
The Nigerian public service is an offshoot of the British model. The ministers
heading the federal ministries and commissioners heading the state levels. Both
are political appointees. The permanent secretary is the most senior civil
servant.
The change from permanent secretary to Director-General effected in
Babangida’s administration in 1988 and was reverted to permanent secretary in
Abacha’s administration in 1996.
The following are the structures of the public service:
1. Administrative Class: This is highest class and it’s
main duty is to advise ministries on policy matters.
Members are university graduates holding the
following positions: Permanent secretaries, director
general.
 WEEK 1
2. Executive Class: The class are officers
responsible for day to day execution of government
policies. Among them are Higher Executive Officers,
Senior Executive Officers, Assistant Executive Officer.
3. Professional/Technical /Specialist Class: The class are
recruited on basis of their expert and professional knowledge in
technical issues. They include: Engineers, Accountants, Lawyers,
Surveyors, Architects and Medical officers.
4. Clerical Class: These officers perform routine jobs and they are
expected to possess ordinary level G.C.E or equivalent.
5. Manipulative/Auxilliary/Messengerial Class: These are the staff
occupying the lowest cadre where real training and education is not
required. For example, cleaners, gatemen, gardeners etc.
 WEEK 1
WAYS WHICH THE PUBLIC/CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION CONTRIBUTES TO THE
EFFECTIVE OPERATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE IN NIGERIA.
1. Recruitment of officials into positions in Public service .e.g Clerks, Messengers.
2. Posting/deployment of public Servants to the appropriates ministries/departments.
3. Discipline of erring public servants through query, warning suspension, dismissal, e.t.c.
4. Promotion of diligent, committed and dedicated public servants.
5. Training of Public Servants for enhanced performance.
6. Investigation of unfair/wrongful treatment of Public Servants.
7. Providing guidelines on appointment, promotion, and discipline in the Public
Service/Condition of service.
8. Ratification of appointments and promotions into Public service positions.
9. Conducting appointment and promotion interviews and examinations for public service.
10.Collaborates with other government agencies for improved service delivery
11. Monitoring and evaluation of performance of public servants.
12. Reforming and re-organization of public service for improved performance
 WEEK 1
Functions of the Public Service

i. It provides information for the formulation of government

policies.
ii. It implements government policies.
iii. It educates the citizens on governmental policies.
iv. It helps in the preparation and implementation of annual budget.
v. It helps in documentation and record keeping of all properties of government.
vi. It acts as agent between the government and the general public in the
dissemination of information.
vii. It creates employment opportunities to large number of people in the country.
 WEEK 1
Reasons for Shortcomings in the trainings.
Public Service. viii. Lack of patriotism and commitment to
i. Lack of well trained personnel in the duty by the civil servants.
public service
ii. Slow decision making resulting from
hierarchy of decision makers with so much
paper work.
iii. Poor conditions of service e.g poor
salaries and motivational incentives.
iv. Insufficient and poor working tools or
equipment
v. Political interference by elected
government officials.
vi. Corruption and mismanagement of funds
by the civil servants.
vii. Tribalism and nepotism in the award of
contracts, promotions, employment and
 WEEK 1
REASON WHY ACCOUNTABILITY SHOULD 8.To discourage people of questionable
BE A WATCHWORD OF PUBLIC SERVANTS character from occupying sensitive public
IN NIGERIA : (2018 WASSCE) office(s)/position(s).
1. For sustainability of the structures of 9. To promote smooth career progression in
government the public service
2. For the maintenance of the confidence/trust. 10.To discourage negative attitude towards
reposed in them public service
3. To help check corrupt practices / 11. To provide role models in public service
favouritism/nepotism
4. To ensure security of government policies and
interests.
5.To enable the governed have an idea of what
is expected from the government
6.To build confidence in foreign investors to
invest in the country
7. To promote accountability/transparency in
government/governance
 WEEK 2
Ways of improving Public Service in Nigeria CONTROL OF PUBLIC SERVICE
Improvement in the conditions of service e. g. salaries 1.Legislative control: This is possible through civil
and allowances. service
ii. Exposing the employees to training programmes and
appropriations and invitation to the floor of the house
refresher courses.
ii. The General Orders: The rules and regulations
iii. The Code of conduct Bureau to sanction any public
office holder found wanting in which outline the conditions of service and
the discharge of duty. responsibilities.
iv. Regular promotion and upgrading of personnel. iii. Public Service Commission Control: For
v. The public complaint commission to intensify effort to employment, promotion, transfers, discipline , retirement
correct and punish where and dismissal of public servants.
necessary. iv. Pressure Groups: They control certain activities of
vi. There should be appropriate reward for diligence, the public service.
dedication and commitment. v. Public Complaint Commission(Ombudsman) :
vii. Recruitment into the public service should be based They investigate maladministration, corruption, injustice
on merit and not tribalism or favouritism.
and unfair treatment of public officers against citizens.
viii. Post service plan for the employees (pension plan
vi. Ministerial Control: The ministries of finance and
scheme).
iix. Inculcation of discipline in the public service. establishment deal with matters like annual expenditure,
ix. Adherence to merits in appointment, promotion and conditions of service, salaries and pensions.
discipline. vii. Hierarchical Control: Higher officers control others
x. Professionalization of public/recruitment of qualified below.
personnel. viii. Judicial Control: Civil and criminal cases involving
civil servants come under the judiciary.
 WEEK 1
Anti-Graft Agencies in Nigeria. 3. Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB)
AGENCIES YEAR OF ESTABLISHMENT
i. It mandates all public officers to declare their assets.
1.PCC 1975
2. CCB 1979 ii. It collects and process information submitted to it by
3. ICPC 2000 public officers
4. EFCC 2004 iii. It ensures some level of honesty by public officers
5. FCSC 2000 iv. It enforces the provisions of the Code of conduct
FUNCTIONS OF ANTI-GRAFT AGENCIES laws
1.Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) 4. Public Complaint Commission (PCC)
i. It investigates financial crimes like money laundering i. It investigates maladministration in public
ii. It adopts measures to freeze assets acquired by fraud service
iii. It educates Nigerians on the evils of corruption.
iv. It coordinates and enforces laws against financial
ii. It reduces injustice and unfair treatment of
crimes citizens by public officials
2. Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related iii. It helps to reduce corruption in the public
Offences Commission (ICPC) service
i. It educates Nigerians on the evils of corruption iv. It acts as the statutory ombudsman for
ii. It carries out investigation on the activities of public Nigeria
officers.
iii. It prosecutes those suspected of corrupt practices in
courts.
iv. It promotes national security
 WEEK 1

TEACHER’S ACTIVITIES ( WE DO ):
1. What is public service? (NECO 2014)
2. State five functions of public service (WAEC 2016)
3. Discuss the reasons for the shortcomings in public
service
4. Discuss five ways of improving public service in
Nigeria. (NECO 2014 & WAEC 2016))
5. State five functions of the PCC.
 WEEK 1

GROUP ACTIVITIES ( WE DO):

Students are asked to:
1. Highlight the functions of public service in Nigeria
2. What are the characteristics of public service
(WASSCE 2018)
 ASSESMENT AND EVALUATION (YOU DO:)
1a. What is public service?
b. List the characteristics of Public service
2. State the functions of Public service
3. What are the problems of public service in Nigeria?
 WEEK 1
RELEVANT REFERENCES:Civic Education African
Resources by Nihinola, e-tal.
2. Senior School Certificate Examinations, Civic
Educaation by G.M. Babalola
 WEEK 2
MULTIMEDIA LINKS- E-Resources:
Google Classroom, Chrisland MM Slides
Wikipedia etc.
www.enotes.com
 WEEK 2
Popular Participation 11
Week 1 Public Service 1 Week 6
Definition: characteristics and functions of Need/ importance of popular
civil service participation, Traditional & Modern.

Week 2 Public service 11 Week 7 MID-TERM BREAK

Reasons for short comings in
Public service. Ways of improvement.

Week 3 Civil Society 1 Week 8 Rule of Law 1

Definition: Functions and need for civil Definition, features and importance
society. of rule law.
Week 4 Civil Society 11 Week 9 Rule of Law 11
Principles, qualities/characteristic of Process of rule of law,
civil society and instruments used by problems/limitations of rule of law.
civil society groups.
Week 5 Popular Participation 1 Week 10 Current Affairs
Definition of popular participation National, international and socio-political
and Types,. issues
 WEEK 3

CIVIL SOCIETY 1
SUB-TOPIC:
Period 1:
1.Meaning of civil society
2. Types of civil society.
3.Functions of civil Society.
 WEEK 2
MEANING OF CIVIL SOCIETY
It can be defined as those organisations that give voice to
various sections of the society and encourage public
participation in democracy.
It can also be defined as the totality of voluntary, civil
and social organisations and institutions that form the basis
of a functioning society.
It consists of registered charities, community groups,
women organizations, religious organisations, trade union,
coalitions and advocacy groups
 WEEK 3
Some Civil Society Groups: 8. Movement for the Actualization of
1. United Action for Democracy the Sovereign State of Biafra
(UAD) (MASSOB),
2. Movement for the Emancipation
9. Constitutional Rights Projects
of Niger Delta(MEND),
(CRP)
3. Movement for the Survival of
Ogoni People( MOSOP) 10. Save Nigeria Group(SNG),
4. Campaign for Democracy(CD) 11. Legal Aid Council (LNC)
5. National Democratic Coalition 12. Amnesty International (AI)
(NADECO). 13. Transitional Monitoring Groups
6. Civil liberties organization (TMG)
(CLO)
7. Committee for the defence of
human right (CDHR)
 WEEK 3
Functions/need and roles Civil Societies
play in popular participation.
vii. They inform and educate the public on
i. They help in building and national issues.
strengthening democracy viii. They fight against injustice and
ii. They check the excesses powers of oppression
political leaders and state iix. They help to develop other values of
officials. democratic life like: tolerance,
iii. They promote good governance. moderation, compromise and respect
iv. They mobilize citizens for popular for opposing views.
participation in politics. ix. To expose the corrupt conduct of public
v. They pursue the enforcement of officials and lobby for good governance
fundamental human rights. reforms.
vi. They mediate and resolve conflicts xi. Strengthen harmonious relations in a
in societies through mediation, multi-ethnic society.
bargaining and accommodation.
 WEEK 3
Qualities/Characteristics of 5. Transparency i.e. openness , degree of
Civil Society accessibility to view
1. Accountability ie. They are 6. Selflessness i. e. they are selfless in
accountable for, responsible for discharging their roles.
and answerable for their actions. 7. Non-partisan i.e. They are not involve
2. Fairness i.e. Just and equitable
in partisan politics.
in their decision making
3. Justice i.e. fairness, impartiality 8.Voluntariness: The willingness to help
especially with regard to the and to use their time in a productive
wrongdoing . manner for common good
4. Equity i.e. they posses the 9. Autonomy: They receive their funding
quality of being impartial and as general grants without obligation to
embrace fairness in their government.
dealings. 10.Their activities are non-profit making or
charitable in nature.
 WEEK 4
CIVIL SOCIETY 2
SUB-TOPIC:
Period 2 &3
1. Types of civil society
2. Methods, instruments, tactics or strategies
used by Civil Society Groups to achieve their
objectives (Mode of operation)
3. Problems of Civil Society Groups
 WEEK 4
Types of Civil Society: (c).Professional groups – are professional
a).Pro-democracy groups – are bodies with common interest aimed at
collection of people advocating for human regulating the work ethics of their member
rights of individuals as well as the and influencing government policies that will
establishment and promotion of
promote career advancement and other
democratic principles in a civil society. e.g.
Campaign for Democracy (CD), Civil opportunity e.g Nigeria Union Of Teacher
Liberties Organization (CLO), Committee (NUT), Association Of National Accountants
for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), of Nigeria ( ANAN), Institute Of Chartered
NADECO etc. Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).etc
(b). Labour groups – are made of (d).Religious groups- are religious
workers who are members of labour organization that promote the faith of
unions that protect the interest of their
members and fight for their religious welfare
members by influencing public and
corporate policies on issues that bother on as well as ensuring peaceful co-existence
workers’ salaries, welfare and conditions among Nigerians .eg Christian association of
of service. Example are Nigerian Labour NIGERIA (SCIC),etc.
Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress
(TUC), etc.
 WEEK 2
g). Human rights groups - are
(e).Student groups - are advocacy platforms for
students to advocate for improved students collection of individuals and
welfare, social justice. Good governance and a non-governmental
better funded educational system. A good organization dedicated to
example is the National Association of Nigeria human right advocacy and
students (NANS) protection of right of
(f).Gender-based groups - are groups of non-
individuals. e.g. Amnesty
governmental organizations (NGOS) that are
committed to promoting gender equity. Equal International, Human Rights
opportunities and human rights for all. Examples Watch, Civil Liberty
are Women Right Advancement and Protection Organization (CLO),
Action (WRAPA), Diaspora African Women Committee For Defence Of
Network (DAWN), MOREMI institute (MI).etc Human rights (CDHR).etc
 WEEK 4

Members of the civil Society Group

WEEK 4
 WEEK 4
CIVIL SOCIETY DEMONSTRATING AGAINST GOVERNMENT POLICY
 WEEK 4
iv. Dialogue: This is a formal discussion between
Methods, instruments, tactics or representatives of
strategies used by Civil Society government and civil society
Groups to achieve their objectives v. Ultimatum: Civil society can give a time limit for
(Mode of operation): government or
employer to act positively on their demand or face
i. Propaganda: This is a message aimed at demonstration, strike etc.
influencing the opinion or behaviour of large vi. Mass media: Civil society advertise and sponsor
number of people. program in TVs,
ii. Lobbying: This is by persuading radio, newspaper magazine and journals in order to
legislators to pass bills that are favourable convince the public to support their demand
to them into law or vice versa. vii. Electioneering campaign: Civil society go out to
campaign and vote
iii. Protest and demonstrations e. g carrying
for candidates who will be sympathetic to their
placard, singing, shouting slogan etc. cause and against the
ix. Boycott and strike: This is when the perceived opponents.
workers refuse to work. viii. Organisation of seminars, writing a protest
. letter, holding town hall meetings, etc.
 WEEK 4
Problems of Civil Society Groups
i. Harassment and molestation by government
ii. Assassination of members by the government
iii. Power tussle among the civil society groups
iv. Inadequate fund to carry out their planned actions
v. Improper control as a result of large members
vi. Bribery and corruption
vii. Overbearing influence of foreign donors
viii. Unlawful arrest and detention of members by the
government.
 WEEK 4
TEACHER’S ACTIVITIES ( WE DO ):
1. What is Civil Society?
2. State five role civil society perform in popular
participation (WAEC 2017)
3. Explain five problems confronting civil society
 WEEK 4
RELEVANT REFERENCES: Civic Education African
Resources by Nihinola, e-tal.
2. Senior School Certificate Examinations, Civic
Education by G.M. Babalola
 WEEK 2

Popular Participation 1
Meaning of popular participation , Factors that
determine/enhance Popular Participation
. Types of Popular Participation
MEANING OF POPULAR PARTICIPATION:
It refers to the active involvement of citizens in the socio-
political activities of a country.
It is a process of involving the citizens in the
governance of their country.
Popular participation is a concept in democracy, which
stresses the need for participation or involvement of all
parties in the democratic processes of a state which is
not limited to class, ethnic, regional and even religious
affiliation.
 WEEK 5
Factors that determine/enhance Popular Participation

i. Functional Government: An active and performing government can easily motivate

citizens for popular participation.
ii. Legitimacy : The legality and acceptance of a government by the people promotes
popular participation
iii. Political Analysis: The ability to properly study and have a thorough assessment
of a political system will determine an individual’s participation.
iv. Mass mobilization : When the citizens are well educated about government
programmes can encourage popular participation.
v. Purposeful leadership: The vision, action and project of the leader will enable
people to participate.
vi. Peace and Security: People will only strive to participate under an atmosphere of
safety and security.
vii. Education / Literacy : It is only an educated and literate population that can
participate in governance.
WEEK 5
 WEEK 5
4. Economic Popular
Types of Popular Participation. : This is the type of
Participation: participation by which citizens
1. Public Popular Participation: This is the contribute in form of labour,
involvement of those who are affected by a decision payment of levies and creation of
to take part in the decision making process. It is
people-centred. The 2011 general election is a good jobs for the economic
example of popular public participation. advancement of the country
2. Political Popular participation: This has to do 5. Citizens Popular Participation:
with the extent to which people take part in politics.
The general level of participation in a society is the This is when ordinary citizens
extent to which the people as whole, are active in take part in governance
politics.
3. Civil Society popular participation: They foster
through referendums, elections,
and support grassroots organizations to become censuses and court summons.
more numerous, sizable, resourceful, and self reliant.
 WEEK 5
6. Community Based Participation: This is where individuals act on their
own or as part of an organized group in a community. E.g. community
development association. For example, in rural settlements, farmers
sometimes agree to farm collectively on each other’s farmland, thereby
achieving more.
7. Cultural Popular Participation: This is the involvement of individuals in
cultural activities of their community. E.g Eyo festival in Lagos State,
Argungun fish festival in Kebbi State and the New yam festival in the south
eastern part of Nigeria.
8. Technological Popular Participation: This is the use of electronic media
in popular participation. E. g. Skype, video conferencing, e-mail, snap chat,
facebook, twitter, linked-in, radio, T. V. etc.
 WEEK 5
MODE OF POPULAR PARTICIPATION.
The Modes of popular participation can be classified into two:
THE TRADITIONAL MODES OF POPULAR PARTICIPATION: Traditional
mode of popular participation is the mode by which individuals physically
participate in both government and community based activities such as:
1.Face-to-Face Interaction or Dialogue: Face –to-face interaction means
people being close together and looking directly at one another. In face-to-
face, the participants air out their views unhindered and without any form of
authority to guard reckless or abusive utterances.
2.Town Hall Meeting: A hall meeting is an informal public meeting. Everybody
in a community is invited to attend, voice their opinions and hear the views
of others.
 WEEK 5
3.Community Development Association: (CDA) is a non-profit organization that
is incorporated to provide programmes, offer services and engage in other
activities that promote and support community development.
ADVANTAGES OF CDAs
(1).CDA help to fast track development in the community.
(2).CDAs give opportunity to individual to serve at community.
(3).CDAs help to solve pressing problems in the community.
(4).CDAs help to unify members of a community in order to foster peaceful co-
existence.
4. Age Group Association: In societies, entry into an age grade is often marked
by an initiation rite. Age grade system is therefore one instrument through
some communities administer government. Age grade identify and execute
community project.
 WEEK 5
5.Gender Based Associations: This is another mode of traditional
participation. For example, associations such as the Young Women Christian
Association YWCA, for over 150 years has advanced the status of Women
and girls worldwide.
6.Social Club /Group: This can be defined as a number of individuals
interacting with one another with respect to:
Common motives and goals.
An accepted division of labour or roles.
Established status (social rank, dominance) relationship.
Accepted norms and values with references to matters relevant to the
group.
7.Family meeting: this is the gathering of members of the same kindred. The
benefits of this simple tool are improved communication, self-esteem,
emotional support and problem solving.
 WEEK 5
Election Participation
 WEEK 5
Popular Participation
 WEEK 5

TEACHER’S ACTIVITIES ( WE DO ):
1. What is popular participation ?
2. State five functions of popular participation (WAEC 2018)
3. Explain five types of popular participation.
 WEEK 5
GROUP ACTIVITIES ( WE DO)
1. List different political parities in Nigeria and their cardinal plans
2. Discuss in group two types of popular participation and which of
them is the best
 WEEK 5
RELEVANT REFERENCES:
1. Civic Education African Resources by Nihinola, e-
tal.
2. Senior School Certificate Examinations, Civic
Educaation by G.M. Babalola
 WEEK 6

POPULAR PARTICIPATION 2
SUB-TOPIC:
Period 2 &3:
1. Modern/ Technological Modes of Popular Participation
2. Ways/ Forms of Political Participation
3. Importance/Reasons for political Participation
4. Importance /Benefits of Active Participation in Political Process
 WEEK 6
Modern/ Technological Modes of Popular Participation:
This is the participation by which a medium of communication enables a
person who is not physically present to participate. This include:
1. Phone-in Programme: Here the public participate in both government and
public affairs by the use of phones.
2. Citizen Journalism: Citizen journalism is the collection, dissemination,
reporting and analysis of news by the public, by means of cell phones; digital
cameras, blogs etc.
3. Social Media: social media refers to the means of interactions among
people in which they create, share, and exchange information and ideas in
virtual communities and networks.eg. Facebook, twitter, Whats App LinkedIn
etc.
4. Electronic Mail(E-mail): E-mail has become the preferred method for both
personal and business communication throughout the whole world.
 WEEK 6
5. Letter to the Editor: A letter to the editor is a written way of talking to
a newspaper, magazine ,or other printed publication about issues of
concern from its readers .
6. Short Text Messages(SMS): In recent times the text messages is
widely used to contributes to topics aimed mostly on radio stations
and as well used for opinion polls.eg.in Nigeria it is used to collate
results of winners of reality TV shows such as ‘project fame 'or to be
admitted into TV shows such as ‘who wants to be a millionaire’.
 WEEK 6
Good Followership
 WEEK 6
ELECTORATES CASTING THEIR VOTES
.
 WEEK 6
POLITICAL PARTICIPATION
This is defined as the process of voluntary involvement of the people in the
political activities of their country.
It is also refers to the procedure of involving majority of the citizens of a
country in the decision making processes, especially on issues that affects
the welfare of the generality of the populace.
WAYS/ FORMS OF POLITICAL PARTICIPATION
i. Casting of votes during election to elect leaders
ii. Holding political office by the citizens of the country.
iii. Participating in electioneering campaign/rallies
iv. Registration for election either as a candidate or a voter.
v. Belonging or joining a political party
vi. Attending political party meeting of one’s choice.
vii. Contesting for an election by eligible candidates.
viii. Giving financial support to political parties
 WEEK 6
Importance/Reasons for political Participation
1. To enable people to acquire and gain political and economic power
2. To correct the anomalies of government.
3. To fight against the ills of the society e.g. corrupt practices
4. To take part in the decision making of a country.
5.To institutionalize responsive and responsible government.
6.Promote political awareness and education
7. Foster political development
8. Promote self fulfilment/satisfaction
9. To ensure the legitimacy of government and enhance development
10. Improve quality of governance in the country.
 WEEK 6
Reasons for not Participating in Politics
i. It is characterized with political violence and assassination
ii. Failure of past and present leaders to fulfil their political promises
iii. The believe that politics is not for the poor because of the money
for vests, posters, rallies etc.
v. Lack of knowledge or ideas in politics.
vi. The problem of gender inequality in the country
vii. The religious and cultural practices of the people.
viii. Lack of transparent elections
ix. Inability of the government to satisfy the people’s needs and
aspiration.
 WEEK 6
IMPORTANCE/BENEFITS OF CITIZENS ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN POLITICAL PROCESS:
1. Accountability, transparency, due process and probity are ensured by active participation
of citizens in political process.
2.Political Stability: This ensures law and order for economic and political development in the
country.
3. Good governance: Popular participation of citizens in government ensures good
governance and builds confidence in the citizens.
4. Legitimacy of elected government: If citizens actively participate in electoral process,
society will have an elected legitimate government.
5.Peaceful order of succession: Peaceful transition is ensured from one regime to another.
6. Peace and harmony: when citizens actively participate in the political process they will
enjoy peace and harmony without much agitation.
7. Conducive environment for business/business/investment: Active participation of the
people in government creates environment conducive for business and other investment
activities to thrive in the society for the common good of the society.
8. Military incursion into politics will be unthinkable: Active participation of citizens in the
political process prevents military intervention and other violent means of changing
government.
 WEEK 6

TEACHER’S ACTIVITIES ( WE DO ):
1.Discuss the term ‘popular participation’ (WAEC 2014)
2. Explain five factors that can enhance popular participation
3. State the importance of Citizens active participation in political
process
.
 WEEK 6
GROUP ACTIVITIES ( WE DO)
1. State six reasons for popular participation(WAEC 2014)
2. Mention and explain five ways of political participation
(NECO 2016)
 WEEK 6
RELEVANT REFERENCES:
1. Civic
Education African Resources by Nihinola, e-tal.
2. Senior School Certificate Examinations, Civic Education by
G.M. Babalola
 WEEK 7

RULE OF LAW 1
SUB-TOPIC:
Period 1:
1. Meaning of Rule of Law
2. Principles/features of the Rule of Law
3. Benefits/Importance of the Rule of Law
 WEEK 7
Meaning of Rule of Law
Rule of law is a process whereby there is absolute supremacy or
dominance of law over everybody. This include the government and the
governed.
The underlying principle of the concept of the rule of law states that
actions of public officials should not deviate but conform to the law and
that the law should apply equally to all persons, irrespective of status,
sex, religious beliefs, political background and age.
Rule of law was popularized by a Professor of English law,
Albert Venn Dicey( a Briton) in his book , titled: Introduction
to the Law (Espirit De laws) of the constitution in 1885.
 WEEK 7
Principles/features of the Rule of Law
vi. The government should rule in accordance
i. Principle of equality: This means that no one
is above the law and that the law will never
with the constitutional provision of the land
leave any offender unpunished irrespective of (Constitutionalism).
their status. vii. Right to appeal: The individual should
ii. Principle of impartiality: This means that due have the right to appeal when not satisfied
process of law must take its course in dealing with the judgment of the lower court.
with offenders. viii. Trial of cases in courts should be
iii. Principle of individual rights: This means that
made public.
citizens of a country should enjoy certain basic
rights and these rights are entrenched in the
ix. Avoidance of breakdown of law and
constitution. Citizens can seek redress in the order: The primary function of the police is
courts if these rights are violated. to arrest whosoever violates the laws of
iv. Principle of fair hearing: Anybody arrested the land and are mandated by the
for any offence is still a suspect and should be constitution to maintain internal peace and
given fair hearing. harmony.
v. Supremacy of law: The laws of a nation are
supreme over everybody in the land.
WEEK 7
 WEEK 7
Benefits/Importance of the Rule of Law the people.
. It allows for equality of all citizens: Under the VI. It prevents long detention of
principle of the rule of law, there is equality of suspects before prosecution:
all citizens before the law.
ii. It guarantees fundamental human rights of citizens
Under the rule of law, an
as entrenched in the constitution. individual has the right to sue
iii. It prevents citizens from unlawful arrest: The rule of the government or the law
law paves ways for the citizens to go to court to enforcement agencies for
seek redress whenever their rights are trample
upon. unlawful arrest and detention.
iv. It makes the attainment of law and order: The rule viii. It gives right to appeal against
of law make the any judgment: every citizen
attainment of law and order easier in the state.
v. It ensures fair hearing: The rule of law guarantees
has the right to appeal or
individual rights to be tried in competent law challenge if he or she not
court before he or she is punished satisfied with judgement of the
vi. It ensures press freedom: Under the rule of law, lower court.
there is enforcement of freedom of the press which
make it possible for the government to be criticized by
 WEEK 7
TEACHER’S ACTIVITIES ( WE DO ):

1. What is rule of (WAEC 2021)

2. Explain five Principles of rule of law
3. State the importance or benefits of rule law
in a Country
 WEEK 7
GROUP ACTIVITIES ( WE DO)
1. State five conditions necessary for
application of rule of law(WAEC 2023)
2. What are the features of rule of law)
 WEEK 7

RELEVANT REFERENCES:
1. Civic Education African Resources by
Nihinola, e-tal.
2. Senior School Certificate Examinations,
Civic Education by G.M. Babalola
 WEEK 8
RULE OF LAW 2
SUB-TOPIC:
Period : 2&3
1. TheProcess of Rule of Law
2. Problems/limitations of the Rule of Law
3. Factors that can ensure successful operation of the
Rule of Law
 WEEK 8
Process of the Rule of iii. Prompt execution of justice: It is
Law the stage whereby a clear
This refers to the series of activities judicial decision is taken in
that take place to make rule of law to favour of either of the
work in the country. These include: contending parties.
i. Respect for the law by the citizens: iv. Practice of separation of powers
It indicates that citizens should obey among the three arms of
the laws of the land for peace to reign government
in the country. v. Litigation: It is a legal proceeding
ii. Enforcement of an independent
in a court, a judicial contest to
judiciary: Judiciary should be able to
determine and enforce legal
discharge their duties without fear or
favour/not being influence by the right.
executive arm of government. vi. Education of the public on their
rights
 WEEK 8
Problems/limitations of the Rule of Law
i. Immunity of the Head of state/Parliament/Diplomatic: The president cannot be
arrested or arraigned in court for any offence while in office.
ii. Creation of special tribunals: The activities of some tribunals set by the
military run contrary to the principle of the rule of law
iii. State of emergency: This is the period when some parts of the constitution
are suspended to restore law and order.
iv. Unlawful arrest and detention: Government arrests individual suspected to be
a security thr`eat to country and kept in detention.
v. Customs and traditions: There are situations where traditional rites or festival
go contrary to the principle of the rule of law.
vi. Suspension of Constitution during military rule: The military suspend the
constitution of the country during their regime and rule by decrees.
vi. Government disregards to court injunctions for selfish reasons
 WEEK 8
viii. Cost of litigation: Many poor citizens have suffered unjustly because they
could not afford to getting lawyers to defend them in court.
ix. Ignorance, Illiteracy and poverty: This limit the common person to think
about fighting his Constitution rights, even when their rights are infringed
upon.
x. xi. Age limit and insanity: Children underage and mentally retarded cannot
be prosecuted to the letter of the law.
xii. Delayed justice: Justice delayed is agreed to be justice denied. Some
individuals spent years in custody with their cases frequently postponed.
xiii. The rich and the privileged few: The rich and privileged few often used
their wealth and positions to prevent justice.
 WEEK 8
FACTORS THAT CAN ENSURE SUCCSSFUL
OPERATION OF THE RULE OF LAW
i. The press must be free and not to be censored.
ii. The judiciary must be independent and impartial.
iii. There should be public trials of accused persons and not secret.
iv. Citizens should be granted the right to appeal against any
judgement they feel like
v. Citizens should not be detained by the police for more than the
stipulated hours (24hours-Habeas corpus law)
vi. There should be the practice of a democratic system of
government.
vii. There should be no delayed justice which will lead to denied
justice.
 WEEK 8

TEACHER’S ACTIVITIES ( WE DO ) :

1.What are the the Limitation of rule of law to national

development
2. List the factors that can ensure successful operation
of the Rule of Law
 WEEK 5
RELEVANT REFERENCES:
1. Civic Education African Resources by Nihinola, e-tal.
2. Senior School Certificate Examinations, Civic Education by
G.M. Babalola
 WEEK 9

CURRENT AFFAIRS
National, international and socio-political issues
WEEK 9
WEEK 9
WEEK 5