The sovereignty of a state can be limited to a great extent by

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks what can limit a state's sovereignty "to a great extent." Sovereignty is the supreme, absolute power of a state to govern itself without outside control.

Step 2: Explain the concept Sovereignty has two sides:

• Internal sovereignty: the state's supreme authority over everything within its territory.
• External sovereignty: independence from control by other states.

Sovereignty is limited mainly by factors outside the state's own decision-making. These include treaties, membership of international organisations (UN, AU, ECOWAS), and international law and conventions. When a state signs a treaty or joins such a body, it agrees to follow rules it cannot simply ignore.

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Rule of law: This is a principle of internal governance. It means everyone, including the government, is subject to the law. It controls how power is used, but it does not really limit the state's sovereignty.
• B. Separation of powers: This divides government functions among the executive, legislature, and judiciary. It prevents abuse of power inside the government, but it does not limit the state's sovereign status.
• C. International laws and conventions: A state is bound by treaties, human rights conventions, trade agreements, and so on. These restrict what it can do even within its own territory. This is the greatest limit on sovereignty.
• D. Legislative Assembly: This is the lawmaking body. It exercises sovereign power and does not limit it.

Step 4: Answer The correct answer is C. International Laws and conventions.

Exam tip: Remember "external limits = international law." If a question asks what limits sovereignty, think of treaties, UN membership, and international obligations. Rule of law and separation of powers are about limiting government power internally, not state sovereignty.