To preserve individual liberties, the judiciary should _____________.

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks what the judiciary must do or be in order to protect individual liberties (rights and freedoms of citizens). The judiciary interprets the law and settles disputes, so it is the guardian of citizens' rights against abuse by the executive or other citizens.

Step 2: Concept For the judiciary to protect liberties, it must be independent, fair, and impartial. This is the principle of independence of the judiciary, which is closely tied to the rule of law and the separation of powers. Judges must decide cases based on the law and the facts, not on pressure, fear, or favour.

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Consist of honest and impartial judges: Correct. Honest, impartial judges will give fair judgments, protect citizens' rights even against the government, and uphold justice.
• B. Be appointed by the executives: Not suitable on its own. Executive appointment can create loyalty to the appointer and weaken independence. (In Nigeria, appointments involve bodies like the National Judicial Council to reduce this risk.)
• C. Be prosecuted for judgement against the executive: Wrong. Punishing judges for ruling against the executive would intimidate them and destroy independence.
• D. Participate in partisan politics: Wrong. Political involvement compromises neutrality and leads to biased judgments.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is A. Only honest and impartial judges can guarantee that individual liberties are protected.

Exam tip: In Government questions about the judiciary, look for keywords like independence, impartiality, fairness, security of tenure. Options that suggest control by, fear of, or loyalty to the executive or politics are almost always wrong.