a. Explain the executive arm of government in Nigeria
b. In what six ways do the constitutional roles of the executive arm of government promote democracy?
Explanation
a.The executive arm of government in Nigeria is one of the three arms of government, the other two being the legislative and the judicial arms. The executive arm is responsible for implementing and enforcing laws and policies made by the legislative arm. It is headed by the President, who is the Chief Executive Officer of the federation. The President is assisted by the Vice President, Ministers, and other government officials. The executive arm also includes the civil service, which is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the country. The executive arm has the power to formulate and implement policies, maintain law and order, ensure national security, and administer the state's resources for the welfare of the citizens.
b. The constitutional roles of the executive arm of government promote democracy in several ways.
- Rule of Law: The executive enforces the rule of law, ensuring that all citizens are treated equally under the law.
- Protection of Rights: The executive protects the rights and freedoms of citizens as enshrined in the constitution.
- Implementation of Policies: The executive implements policies that are beneficial to the citizens, promoting their welfare and well-being.
- Maintenance of Order: The executive maintains law and order, ensuring a peaceful and conducive environment for democratic processes to take place.
- Representation: The executive, being elected by the people, represents the will of the people in governance.
- Checks and Balances: The executive checks the powers of the other arms of government, preventing the abuse of power and promoting accountability and transparency in governance.