WAEC Civic Education Past Questions & Answers - Page 83

Opposition represents an alternative government, and is responsible for challenging the policies of the government and producing different policies where appropriate. The Opposition's main role is to question the government of the day and hold them accountable to the public.

The elected representative communicates the views of his constituents and secures their interests. The main features of representative democracy are, Government by consent: In a representative democracy, government is the expression of the will of people. The government is elected in an election considered to be free and fair.

Functions Of Government

1. Law Making.
2. Military defence of the country.
3. Provision of employment.
4. Maintenance of law and order.
5. Promotion of economic growth and development, amongst others.

"Concurrent powers," are those powers which are shared by both federal and state governments, both may act or intervene, but the federal government overrides the state if there is conflict. 

Reasons for self-reliance

1. You can take control of your own destiny. 

2. It’s good to be confident on your two feet.

3. Gain perspective on your life. 

4. The obvious: not be dependent on anyone but yourself.