(a)Sovereignty is the power of the state to make and enforce laws with all the coercive powers it cares to employ without being bound by any external influence.
(b) The factors that limit the Sovereignty of a state are:
(i) Resources: Lack of human and material resources may put restraints on the exercise of state authority.
(ii) Pressure group activity: Pressure groups and certain individuals need to be consulted before the enactment and implementation of laws in the state without which they can influence the public for non- compliance.
(iii)The constitution: The constitution formally creates the state and defines the various powers to be exercised as well as their limitations.
(iv)The electorate: The electorates can check the excesses of the government through elections.
(v) International laws and membership of international organisations: States accept limitation on their sovereignty when they become members of international organisations like the U.N.O, O.A.U., ECOWAS as they have to comply with the laws and resolutions of these organisations.
(vi) Public opinion: International and local public opinions may prevent or control a country or state from taking an action, e.g. fear of sanctions and embargoes.
(vii)Customs and traditions: Customs and traditions of the people are taken into consideration when making law and this affects the sovereignty of the state.
(viii)Coup d'etat: This may erode popular sovereignty.
(ix)Types of governmental power: Sovereignty is better exercised under a unitary government than in federal and confederal systems.