In which of the following systems is the power of the component units more than that of the central government?

Analyze the question: It asks which system of government gives the component units (states, regions, provinces) more power than the central government.

Explain the concept: Governments differ in how power is shared between the centre and the component units:

• Unitary: Power is concentrated in the central government. Local units exist only at the centre's discretion. Examples: UK, France, Ghana.
• Federal: Power is constitutionally divided between the central government and the component units. Neither is supreme over the other. Example: Nigeria, USA.
• Confederal: The component units are sovereign and keep most of the power. They create a weak central body for limited, shared purposes such as defence or trade. The centre depends on the units and can be overruled by them. Examples: the Confederate States of America, the early United States under the Articles of Confederation, and the Senegambia Confederation.
• Monarchical: This describes who holds power (a king or queen), not how power is shared between levels of government.

Solution:

1. Monarchy (A) is about the head of state, so it doesn't fit.
2. Unitary (C) gives the central government more power, which is the opposite of what is asked.
3. Federal (B) gives a balance. Powers are shared, and the units are not stronger than the centre.
4. Confederal (D) is the only system where the component units hold more power than the central authority.

Correct answer: D. Confederal

Exam tip: Think of "power ranking" this way:

• Unitary = centre is strongest
• Federal = balanced
• Confederal = units are strongest

JAMB often tests this contrast, so memorise it.