*WAEC HISTORY* *NUMBER EIGHT* (8) (PICK ANY FIVE) (i) Suppression of Civil Liberties: Military regimes often suspended or limited fundamental human rights, such as freedom of speech, assembly, and the press. This resulted in widespread censorship and the suppression of opposition voices. (ii) Weakening of Democratic Institutions: Military rule undermined democratic institutions by dismantling or weakening the legislative, judicial, and executive branches of government. This led to the erosion of checks and balances within the system. (iii) Corruption: Military leaders often engaged in corrupt practices, embezzling state funds and enriching themselves and their allies. The lack of transparency and accountability during military regimes exacerbated corruption at all levels of government. (iv) Human Rights Violations: Military regimes frequently engaged in gross human rights abuses, including arbitrary arrests, torture, and extrajudicial killings, especially of political opponents or those perceived as a threat to the regime. (v) Stagnation of Economic Development: Military governments often failed to prioritize long-term economic development, leading to mismanagement of resources, inflation, and poverty. Many military regimes focused more on maintaining power than on fostering sustainable growth. (vi) Increased Unemployment and Poverty: Due to poor economic policies, the military governments led to a decline in industries and agriculture, leading to widespread unemployment and an increase in poverty levels across the country. (vii) Political Instability: The frequent coups and changes in leadership during military rule created a cycle of political instability, which hindered national development and made it difficult for the country to maintain steady progress. (viii) Loss of International Credibility: Military regimes often faced condemnation from the international community for violating democratic principles and human rights, leading to sanctions and a loss of global respect and support. This hindered Nigeria's diplomatic relationships and international development prospects.