Informed civic guide
What does a State House of Assembly member do?
A State House of Assembly member represents a state constituency, makes state laws and scrutinises the state executive.
Sources checked 11 August 2026At a glance
Key points
- Represents a state constituency.
- Debates state bills and approves state expenditure.
- Uses committees and hearings to scrutinise state institutions.
- Confirms appointments where the Constitution or state law requires it.
How members are elected
Voters in each state constituency elect a member. A State House of Assembly normally continues for four years from its first sitting, unless dissolved earlier in accordance with the Constitution.
Powers and responsibilities
State assemblies legislate on matters the Constitution assigns to states and share authority with the National Assembly on matters in the Concurrent Legislative List.
- Pass state appropriation laws.
- Consider bills proposed by members or the state executive.
- Scrutinise ministries, departments and agencies through legislative oversight.
Limits and accountability
Members do not run state ministries. Their authority must remain within the Constitution, and their decisions may be reviewed by the courts.
Authoritative references
Sources
- Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (opens in a new tab)
Federal Ministry of Justice publication of the Constitution.
- Constitution, including the Fifth Alteration (opens in a new tab)
Official NILDS repository edition incorporating the First to Fifth Alterations.
- Electoral Act 2026 (opens in a new tab)
Official National Assembly copy of the current Electoral Act.