An electoral process in which candidates are selected for elective offices by party members is

1. Analyze the question The question asks for the electoral process in which party members choose the candidates who will represent their party in an election. The key phrase is "candidates are selected... by party members."

2. Explain the concept Before the main election, each political party must decide who will fly its flag. In Nigeria, parties do this through:

• Direct primaries, where all registered party members vote.
• Indirect primaries, where delegates elected by party members vote.
• Consensus, where aspirants agree on one candidate.

All of these are known as party primaries, and the election held for this purpose is a primary election.

3. Test each option

• A. Primary election: Party members select the party's candidates for elective offices. This matches the question.
• B. Electoral college: A body of electors chosen to vote on behalf of others, for example in the USA's presidential election. It is not a party selection process.
• C. Bye election: Held to fill a vacancy that arises between general elections, such as when a legislator dies or resigns. It is not for selecting party candidates.
• D. General election: Held for all eligible voters to elect officials into office. It is not limited to party members.

4. Answer The correct option is A. primary election.

5. Exam tip Link the word "primary" with "first stage". The primary is the first step, where the party picks its candidate. The general election is the second step, where the whole electorate chooses between the parties' candidates. Also remember that a bye-election is for a vacant seat.