In the proportional representation electoral system, seats in the legislature are allocated based on

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks what basis seats are allocated on in a proportional representation (PR) system.

Step 2: Explain the concept In proportional representation, the number of seats a party wins in the legislature matches (or closely matches) the share of the total votes it receives. For example, if a party wins 40% of the votes, it gets about 40% of the seats. This system is used in countries such as South Africa (national and provincial elections), Israel, and the Netherlands.

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Primary elections: These are used within parties to choose candidates. They do not decide how legislative seats are shared among parties. ❌
• B. Political party membership: The number of registered members a party has does not decide its seats. What matters is how people vote. ❌
• C. The percentage of votes a party receives: This is the core principle of PR. Seats are shared according to vote share. ✅
• D. A winner-takes-all system: This describes the simple plurality or "first-past-the-post" system, which is the opposite of PR. Nigeria uses it. ❌

Step 4: Answer

Tip: Remember it this way: PR = Percentage Received. If you see "winner-takes-all" or "first-past-the-post," think of the simple majority/plurality system, not PR. This contrast is a popular JAMB and WASSCE question.