Authors : Aborisade Olasunkanmi
Abstract: This study briefly traces the origins, evolution and purposes of the doctrine of separation of powers as well as its main modern manifestations. The study argues that the doctrine can now be regarded as a general constitutional principle that was never conceived, nor intended, to operate as a rigid rule or dogma. Mindful of this significant fact, the study analyzes the structure of government in Nigeria and examines the extent to which the doctrine operates within the executive, legislative and judicial branches. What emerges from the analysis is that there is no total separation of power in Nigeria, the constitution through the various provisions, allows any of the three organs to perform the function of one or the other arms of government in certain circumstances.
Aborisade Olasunkanmi , 2011. The Separation of Powers and Constitutionalism in Africa: The Case of Nigeria. Pakistan Journal of Social Sciences, 8: 240-242.