Explanation

Separation of powers divides government into three branches: Legislature (makes laws), Executive (enforces laws), and Judiciary (interprets laws). This prevents any single branch from becoming too powerful.

In Nigeria: National Assembly is legislative, President heads executive, Supreme Court leads judiciary. Each branch has distinct functions and personnel – no one serves in multiple branches simultaneously.

Checks and balances allow branches to limit each other. Legislature approves budgets, executive appoints judges (with legislative confirmation), judiciary can void unconstitutional laws. This promotes accountability.