In a democratic government, franchise is given to all_________

1. Analyze the question The question asks who is given franchise (the right to vote) in a democracy. The key idea is who qualifies.

2. Explain the concept Franchise, or suffrage, is the right to vote in elections. In a democracy, the principle is universal adult suffrage: every citizen who has reached the legal voting age (18 in Nigeria) can vote, regardless of gender, religion, ethnicity, wealth or party membership. Some conditions still apply, such as sound mind and not being legally disqualified.

3. Step-by-step solution

• A. adult citizens: Correct. It combines the two requirements, citizenship and attaining the voting age. This is what universal adult suffrage means.
• B. citizens: Too broad. Children and minors are citizens, but they cannot vote.
• C. resident adults: Residence alone does not qualify someone. Foreigners living in Nigeria are not given the right to vote in elections.
• D. loyal party members: Wrong. Democracy does not restrict voting to party members. That would be a one-party or exclusive system.

4. Answer The correct option is A. adult citizens.

5. Exam tip Remember the formula: Franchise = Citizenship + Age (18+). If an option says "all citizens" without mentioning adults, be careful. Minors can't vote.