WAEC Government 2003 Theory question 102

Theory question 102

Citizenship, Rights and Duties

Section A: Elements of Government
(a) Outline any three fundamental human rights of a citizen.
(b) What are the limitations of these rights?

Show the model answer
Model answer

(a) Any three (1999 Constitution, Chapter IV): right to life; right to dignity of the human person; right to personal liberty; right to fair hearing; right to private and family life; freedom of thought, conscience and religion; freedom of expression and the press; freedom of peaceful assembly and association; freedom of movement; freedom from discrimination; right to own property.
(b) Limitations: rights may be limited by law in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, public morality or public health; to protect the rights of others; during a state of emergency or war; by a court sentence (e.g. death penalty, imprisonment after conviction); lawful arrest and detention of suspects; restrictions on non-citizens (e.g. movement, political rights); laws on libel, slander and sedition limit free speech; lawful acquisition of property with compensation; military rule and suspension of the constitution; practical limits such as poverty, ignorance and illiteracy.

Explanation

Name three rights, then show how each can be limited.