Identify five (5) ways in which democracy was stalled any time the military took over the administration of Nigeria.
When the military took over the administration of Nigeria, democracy was stalled in several ways. Here are five key ways in which this happened:
1. Suspension of the Constitution: Each military regime typically suspended the existing constitution, which is the foundational legal document that outlines the democratic framework of the country. This suspension effectively halted democratic governance and replaced it with military rule.
2. Dissolution of Democratic Institutions: Military regimes often dissolved democratic institutions such as the National Assembly (parliament), state assemblies and local government councils. This dissolution removed the legislative and representative bodies that are essential for a functioning democracy.
3. Suppression of Political Parties and Activities: Political parties were frequently banned or heavily restricted under military rule. This suppression curtailed political pluralism and competition, which are important elements of democracy. Political activities, including rallies, campaigns and elections, were often prohibited.
4. Centralisation of Power: Military rulers centralised power in the executive branch, often concentrating authority in the hands of a single military leader or a small group of military officers. This concentration of power undermined the principle of checks and balances that is fundamental to democratic governance.
5. Human Rights Violations and Lack of Freedoms: Military regimes often ruled with an iron fist. Thid led to widespread human rights abuses, including arbitrary arrests, detentions without trial, torture and extrajudicial killings. Freedoms of speech, press, assembly and association were severely curtailed and this stifled the democratic expression of dissent and opposition.
Others include
6. A culture of silence was instituted.
7. Tendency to hold on to power.
8. The rule of law was disregarded.
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