Which of the following categories of people can vote in periodic elections?

Analyze the question The question asks which group of people is allowed to vote in periodic elections. This is about suffrage (the right to vote) in Government.

Explain the concept Suffrage is the right to vote in an election. In Nigeria, as in most democracies, a person must meet certain conditions to be eligible:

• Be a citizen of the country
• Be of the required age (18 years and above in Nigeria)
• Be of sound mind
• Be registered as a voter (e.g., with INEC)
• Not be disqualified by law (for example, by certain criminal convictions)

Solution: checking each option

• A. Minors: These are persons below the voting age (under 18). They are not allowed to vote.
• B. Aliens: These are foreigners who live in a country but are not citizens. They have no right to vote in national elections.
• C. Lunatics: People of unsound mind are disqualified because they cannot make rational political decisions.
• D. Citizens: Citizens who meet the age and registration requirements are entitled to vote.

Answer The correct option is D. Citizens.

Exam tip Remember the three groups that are commonly disqualified from voting: minors, aliens, and persons of unsound mind (along with some convicted criminals). If a WASSCE question asks who cannot vote, pick from these. If it asks who can, look for citizens.