Which of the following hinders the establishment of a representative government in a state?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which factor hinders (blocks or weakens) representative government. Representative government is one where citizens choose leaders to act on their behalf through free, fair, and informed elections.

Step 2: Explain the concept For representative government to work, citizens need to:

• Understand their rights and duties
• Make informed choices when voting
• Hold leaders accountable
• Take part in political processes

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Mass illiteracy: When a large part of the population cannot read or write, people struggle to understand political issues, manifestos, and their rights. They are easier to manipulate, may sell their votes, and participate less meaningfully. This hinders representative government.
• B. Existence of pressure groups: Pressure groups (e.g., NLC, NBA, ASUU) channel citizens' interests to government and strengthen democracy. This does not hinder it.
• C. Vibrant political culture: An active, participatory political culture supports representative government. It helps.
• D. Independent electoral commission: An independent body like INEC ensures free and fair elections. It promotes representative government.

Step 4: Answer Only mass illiteracy is a barrier. The other three are features that strengthen representative government.

Tip: In "which hinders/obstructs" questions, eliminate options that are positive or democratic features (independent, vibrant, pressure groups) and choose the negative social condition (illiteracy, poverty, political apathy, military rule).