PAUL BIYA’S AUTHORITARIAN LEADERSHIP AND ITS BROADER IMPLICATIONS FOR AFRICAN GOVERNANCE: A CASE FOCUS ON NIGERIA

• Davou Dung Pam, Ph.D.

  Federal University of Education Pankshin

  Author

• Mrs. Briskila Davou Pam

  Author

Abstract

Authoritarian leadership continues to shape political outcomes in several African states despite the widespread adoption of multiparty electoral systems and constitutional governance frameworks. This study critically examines the authoritarian leadership of Paul Biya, President of Cameroon since 1982, and analyzes its broader implications for democratic governance in Africa, with a comparative focus on Nigeria. Drawing on theories of competitive authoritarianism, democratic backsliding, and institutional political economy, the paper explores how prolonged incumbency, constitutional manipulation, centralized executive authority, and the suppression of dissent have contributed to governance deficits in Cameroon. The study further interrogates how these practices influence regional norms, weaken institutional accountability, and normalize leadership entrenchment across the continent. Using a qualitative comparative approach, the paper contrasts Cameroon’s highly centralized political system with Nigeria’s federal governance structure, competitive electoral environment, and comparatively vibrant civil society. While Nigeria continues to face serious governance challenges—including corruption, electoral irregularities, and elite dominance the paper argues that its constitutional term limits, dispersed power structure, and active judicial and civic institutions have constrained the consolidation of long-term personal rule. The findings suggest that authoritarian durability in Africa is less a function of leadership charisma than of institutional weakness and constitutional vulnerability. The paper concludes that sustainable democratic governance in Africa requires stronger institutional safeguards, enforceable term limits, protected civic spaces, and more robust regional accountability mechanisms to prevent democratic erosion and authoritarian entrenchment.

1. Mrs. Briskila Davou Pam

   Department of Religious Studies (Conflict Management Unit)
   International University, Bamenda, Cameroon

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