Democracy – JSS1 Social & Citizenship Studies Lesson Note (Second Term)

Subject: Social and Citizenship Studies

Class: JSS 1

Topic: Democracy (Government by the People)

What is Democracy?

The word “Democracy” comes from two Greek words: Demos (people) and Kratos (rule). So, it literally means “Rule by the people.”

A very famous man named Abraham Lincoln defined it in a way that is easy to remember:

“Democracy is the government of the people, by the people, and for the people.”

In simple terms, it is a system where the citizens have a say in how they are governed. Instead of one person making all the rules forever, the people choose who should lead them for a certain period.

Characteristics of Democracy

How do we know if a country is truly practicing democracy? Look out for these “signs” or characteristics:

• Regular Elections: Every few years (in Nigeria, it is every 4 years), there must be an election where people choose their leaders.
• The Rule of Law: This means the law is above everyone. Even the President must obey the law. No one is too big for the law.
• Fundamental Human Rights: In a democracy, your rights (like the right to speak and the right to move freely) are protected.
• Freedom of the Press: Radios, TVs, and newspapers are allowed to tell the truth about what the government is doing without being shut down.
• Multi-Party System: There should be more than one political party so that people have a choice (e.g., APC, PDP, LP, etc.).
• Majority Rule: The person with the most votes wins, but they must still protect the “minority” (those who didn’t vote for them).

The Nigerian Democratic Experience

Nigeria has had a “see-saw” history with democracy. We haven’t always been a democracy.

1. The Beginning: Nigeria became independent in 1960 and started with democracy. However, the military took over several times, and we stopped practicing democracy for many years.
2. The Fourth Republic: In May 29, 1999, Nigeria returned to democracy fully. This is why we celebrate “Democracy Day” (though the date was later moved to June 12 to honor MKO Abiola).
3. Current System: * We practice a Presidential System (similar to the USA).

• We have three branches of government to make sure no one has too much power:
  1. The Legislature: They make the laws (Senators and House of Reps).
  2. The Executive: They carry out the laws (President, Governors, Ministers).
  3. The Judiciary: They interpret the laws (The Courts and Judges).

Why Democracy is Good for Nigeria

1. It gives us a voice: We can complain when things are bad and vote for someone else in the next election.
2. Peaceful Change: We don’t need to fight or use guns to change a leader; we use our thumbprints and ballot papers.
3. Accountability: Because leaders know they will face another election, they try to work for the people so they can be re-elected.

Summary Checklist for Students

• [ ] I can define Democracy using Abraham Lincoln’s words.
• [ ] I know that Nigeria returned to democracy on May 29, 1999.
• [ ] I can list three characteristics of democracy (like elections and rule of law).
• [ ] I know that democracy allows me to have a choice in who leads me.

Classroom Activity / Homework

1. Who is the current President of Nigeria, and which political party does he belong to?
2. Mention two rights you enjoy because you live in a democratic country.
3. True or False: In a democracy, the President can change the laws of the land all by himself without the National Assembly.
4. What is the date of “Democracy Day” in Nigeria now?