Authority Of The State (Pols 101)

Introduction

Every modern state operates through three main organs of government: the Executive, the Legislature, and the Judiciary. These organs derive their authority from the constitution and collectively ensure the formulation, implementation, and interpretation of laws. Their distinct functions promote order, accountability, and good governance.

The Executive

The Executive refers to the arm of government responsible for formulating, implementing, and enforcing policies, laws, and decisions. It is often regarded as the centre of governmental activity, and historically, it is the oldest arm of government.

In modern political systems, the executive has expanded in size and function, developing into two major segments:

1. The Political Executive

   This consists of elected or politically appointed officials such as the President, Vice President, Governors, Ministers, and Commissioners.

•  Example: In the United States and Nigeria, the President is the head of the political executive.

Pres. Bola Ahmed Tinubu 

2. The Bureaucratic (Administrative) Executive

   This includes career civil servants and public officials who assist in policy implementation. They maintain continuity in government.

•  Example: Permanent Secretaries and Directors in ministries.

The Legislature

The Legislature is the arm of government empowered to make laws for the state. In a democracy, it consists of elected representatives of the people and serves as a major avenue for popular participation, enabling citizens to influence governance through their representatives.

Senate Pres. Godswil Akpabio 

Its importance lies in:

•  Ensuring representation.
• Providing checks on the executive.
• Making, amending, and repealing laws.

Structures of Modern Legislatures

1. Unicameral Legislature

   A single-chamber legislature.

•    Examples: Denmark, New Zealand, Zambia.

2. Bicameral Legislature

   A two-chamber legislature, usually consisting of an upper and lower house.

•  Examples: Algeria, Greece, Turkey, Spain, Nigeria (Senate and House of Representatives), and the United States.

The Judiciary

The Judiciary is the arm of government responsible for the interpretation of laws, settlement of disputes, and administration of justice. It operates through a regularised procedure that ensures fairness, rule of law, and protection of citizens' rights.

CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere Ekun 

Its major functions include:

1. Interpreting the constitution and laws.
2. Settling civil and criminal cases.
3. Acting as a check on the other arms through judicial review.
4. Protecting fundamental human rights.

• Examples of judicial bodies:

Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, High Courts, Customary/ Sharia Courts (depending on the legal system).

Conclusion

The Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary collectively embody the authority of the state. Each arm performs distinct but complementary roles. Their separation ensures accountability, prevents abuse of power, and promotes effective governance. Understanding these organs helps citizens appreciate how government functions and how authority is exercised within the state.

References 

Pols 101 note dictated by Prof. Kayode Omojuwa 

Wikipedia contributors