IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

JOURNAL OF POLITICAL SCIENCE AND LEADERSHIP RESEARCH (JPSLR )

E-ISSN 2504-883X
P-ISSN 2695 2432
VOL. 11 NO. 1 2025
DOI: 10.56201/jpslr.vol.11.no1.2025.pg64.100

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Corruption, Governance Deficit and Underdevelopment in Bayelsa State, Nigeria: An Assessment of Manifestations, Symmetry and Impacts (2015 - 2024)

Frank Prince Diepreye

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Abstract

Corruption, governance deficits, and underdevelopment remain critical challenges in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. This study explores the intricate interplay between corruption and governance challenges, focusing on two core research questions: whether corruption is positively linked to governance challenges in the state, and how the interplay between political corruption and governance deficits contributes to underdevelopment. By centering on the socio-political dynamics of Bayelsa State, the study provides an in-depth analysis of how systemic corruption undermines institutional frameworks, disrupts service delivery, and exacerbates socio-economic inequalities. Using the corruption cycle as its theoretical framework, the study examines the recurring patterns by which corruption is sustained through opportunity, incentive, normalization, and impunity, ultimately entrenching governance inefficiencies. A qualitative methodology was employed, combining primary data from semi-structured interviews with 24 participants across the state’s eight local government areas and secondary data from academic, governmental, and institutional sources. The findings reveal that corruption manifests through the mismanagement of public resources, inflated contracts, and embezzlement, with far-reaching impacts on governance and development outcomes. The governance deficits caused by corruption have perpetuated underdevelopment in key sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure, leaving Bayelsa’s resource wealth untapped for public benefit. Moreover, the study underscores the cyclical relationship between governance inefficiencies and public mistrust, which fosters an environment where corrupt practices thrive. It concludes with actionable recommendations, including strengthening accountability mechanisms, fostering a culture of transparency, and promoting civic engagement. These measures are essential for breaking the corruption cycle, ad

keywords:

Corruption, governance deficits, underdevelopment, Bayelsa State, accountability.

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