The main reason for military intervention in Nigerian politics is the

Analyze the question: It asks for the main reason the military has stepped into Nigerian politics (coups of 1966, 1975, 1983, 1985, 1993, etc.).

Explain the concept: Military coups in Nigeria were usually justified by the soldiers as a "correction" of failures by civilian governments. Common reasons given in coup broadcasts included:

• Corruption and mismanagement
• Political instability, electoral malpractice and violence (e.g., the 1964-65 elections and Western Region crisis)
• Economic hardship
• Ethnic and regional tensions
• Failure to maintain law, order and national unity

All of these point to the same idea: the military believed civilian politicians were incompetent or unable to govern properly.

Go through the options:

• A. International pressure for human rights: Wrong. International pressure usually pushed the military out of power, not into it.
• B. The desire for civil government: Wrong. This is the opposite of what a coup does. Civil rule means handing power to civilians.
• C. Perceived incapability of civilians to govern: Correct. Coup plotters consistently claimed civilians were corrupt, inept or unable to keep the country stable.
• D. Civilians' dislike for power: Wrong. Nigerian politicians have generally fought hard for power, not shunned it.

Answer: Option C, perceived incapability of civilians to govern.

Exam tip: For Government questions on military rule, remember the phrase "military as corrective regime". If an option talks about civilian failure, corruption or instability, it is usually the right choice. Eliminate options that describe the military leaving power or outside pressure removing it.