(a) Define representative democracy. (b) State three reasons Nigeria adopts representative democracy. (c) List three...

Explanation

(a) Definition of Representative Democracy;

Representative democracy is a form of government whereby eligible citizens elect their leaders through periodic elections to represent them at all levels of government for a fixed tenure or Representative democracy can be defined as a form of government whereby the people run the government or exercise political power indirectly through their elected representatives.

(b) Reasons Nigeria adopted Representative Democracy

i. Large electorate size due to high population

ii. Large territorial size of the country

iii. Complexity of many political issues

iv. Safeguarding the fundamental human rights of the citizens

v. Promotion of accountability

vi. Expanding scope of modern government for the welfare of citizens

vii. To give voice to the opposition for good governance

viii. Greater political participation

ix. Complex state structure of Nigerian government

x. Desire to protect the interest of the minorities/ethnic diversities

(c) Factors that retard the growth of democracy in Nigeria

i. Electoral malpractice

ii. Political apathy

iii. Biased electoral umpire

iv. High level of illiteracy/ignorance

v. Lack of proper political education

vi. High cost of running democracy

vii. Bribery and corruption

viii. Military intervention in politics

ix. Dictatorial influence of political godfathers/party leaders

x. Inadequate democratic political culture