Introduction

This book conceptualises the interface between the concept of securitization with neo-patrimonialism. It analyses the securitization processes among the political elites in neo-patrimonial statehood. It stretches the conceptualisation of securitization beyond the original European security environment into other regions; African statehood characterised by a blurred line between leader and state. The book develops an original analytical framework that draws upon insights from both securitization theory, sociology and psychology. In so doing, the book bridges the gap between the most commonly used approaches in the study of African security and synthesises this with ontological security. This book examines a few cases in West Africa in order to explain the securitization-neo-patrimonialism dynamics.