Theory question 109
Military RuleSection B: Political and Constitutional Development in West Africa and International Relations
Give reasons for the military intervention in the politics of any one West African country.
Show the model answer
Model answer
Example: Nigeria (or Ghana).
Corruption and mismanagement by civilian governments.
Election rigging and political violence (e.g. Nigeria 1964–65, 1983).
Breakdown of law and order.
Ethnic and regional tensions.
Economic crisis: inflation, unemployment, debt.
Ambition of military officers.
Grievances within the army.
Imitation of coups elsewhere and the 'success' of earlier coups.
Weak political institutions and lack of legitimacy of government.
Foreign influence.
Explanation
Name the country and use its examples.