WAEC Government Question and Answer 2017 (Complete Guide for Students)
The 2017 WAEC Government examination remains one of the most widely used past papers for students preparing for WASSCE. This is because the exam followed a clear structure, tested core political concepts, and repeated many topics that WAEC often revisits in later years. Understanding the pattern of the 2017 paper helps candidates prepare more effectively for upcoming exams.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the 2017 WAEC Government questions, key topics, correct answers, and explanations to help you study smarter.
Structure of WAEC Government 2017 Exam
The 2017 Government exam consisted of:
1. Objective Questions (Paper 1)
50 multiple‑choice questions covering:
- Basic political concepts
- Types and forms of government
- Constitution and constitutional development
- Citizenship
- Political parties and party systems
- Electoral processes
- Public opinion
- Pressure groups
- Civil service
- Local government
- Pre‑colonial and colonial administration in Nigeria
- International organizations
2. Theory Questions (Paper 2)
Candidates answered structured essay questions testing:
- Explanation of political concepts
- Historical development of government systems
- Functions of political institutions
- Comparative political analysis
- Nigerian political evolution
Sample WAEC Government 2017 Questions and Answers (Explained)
Below are representative questions based on the verified 2017 exam pattern, along with clear explanations to help you understand the concepts.
Question 1
An agreed set of rules and principles by which a country is governed is known as a ________.
Correct Answer: Constitution
Explanation:
A constitution is the supreme law that outlines the structure of government, rights of citizens, and the powers of political institutions.
Question 2
Which of the following is a feature of a federal system of government?
- Concentration of power
- Division of powers
- Rule by decree
- Unitary authority
Correct Answer: B. Division of powers
Explanation:
Federalism divides governmental powers between central and regional governments, each operating independently within its jurisdiction.
Question 3
The process by which citizens express their views on political issues is known as ________.
Correct Answer: Public opinion
Explanation:
Public opinion reflects the collective views of citizens on political matters and influences government decisions.
Question 4
Which organ of government is responsible for interpreting the law?
Correct Answer: The Judiciary
Explanation:
The judiciary interprets laws, settles disputes, and ensures justice in society.
Question 5
One major function of political parties is to ________.
Correct Answer: Contest elections
Explanation:
Political parties mobilize citizens, present candidates, and compete for political power through elections.
Likely Theory Questions from WAEC Government 2017
Below are typical theory questions based on the 2017 exam pattern, along with summarized answers.
Theory Question 1
Explain five functions of government in a modern state.
Summary Answer:
- Maintenance of law and order
- Protection of lives and property
- Provision of social services
- Promotion of economic development
- Defense against external aggression
Theory Question 2
Describe the features of a unitary system of government.
Summary Answer:
- Centralized authority
- Uniform laws
- Weak or no regional autonomy
- Power concentrated in the national government
- Quick decision‑making
Theory Question 3
Highlight the roles of pressure groups in a democratic system.
Summary Answer:
- Influencing government policies
- Educating the public
- Acting as watchdogs
- Representing minority interests
- Promoting political participation
Key Topics Students Should Study from the 2017 Exam
The 2017 WAEC Government paper emphasized the following areas:
1. Political Concepts
- Power, authority, legitimacy
- Sovereignty
- Democracy and dictatorship
2. Government Systems
- Unitary, federal, confederal
- Presidential vs parliamentary systems
3. Constitution
- Types
- Sources
- Features
- Constitutional development in Nigeria
4. Citizenship
- Types of citizenship
- Rights and duties
5. Political Parties & Elections
- Party systems
- Electoral processes
- Functions of electoral bodies
6. Public Administration
- Civil service
- Local government
- Public corporations
7. Nigerian Political History
- Pre‑colonial administration
- Colonial rule
- Nationalist movements
Why WAEC Government 2017 Is Important for Revision
- Many questions from 2017 reappear in later years
- The exam covers core topics WAEC loves to repeat
- It helps students understand how to answer theory questions effectively
- It builds confidence for the actual exam