The essence of the concept of devolution is to cater for the interests of the

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks whose interests devolution is meant to serve. So we need to recall what devolution means in Government.

Step 2: Explain the concept Devolution is the transfer or delegation of powers from the central government to regional or local units, which then govern themselves on certain matters. Examples include the powers given to state and local governments in a federal system such as Nigeria's.

The main reasons for devolving power are:

• To accommodate ethnic, cultural, religious and regional diversity
• To give smaller or minority groups a say in their own affairs
• To bring government closer to the people
• To reduce the fear of domination by larger groups

Step 3: Examine the options

• A. Ruling government: Wrong. Devolution actually reduces the central government's concentration of power.
• B. Majority: Wrong. The majority already has strong influence at the centre through numbers, so it does not need special protection.
• C. Minority: Correct. Devolution gives minority groups and regions the chance to manage their own affairs, which protects them from being dominated by the majority.
• D. Rule of law: Wrong. This is a principle of governance, not a group of people whose interests are catered for.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C. minority.

Exam tip: Whenever you see "devolution" or "federalism" in a question about purpose, think of protecting minorities and accommodating diversity. Remember it as: Devolve to include the few.