GOVERNMENT AS AN INSTITUTION (MACHINERY OR AGENTS) OF THE STATES

Under this definition, government is seen as an officially constituted body of persons and institutions given the authority of mandate to administer the affairs of a state. It may also be seen as machinery or agent through which the affairs and interests will of the state are formulated expressed, pursued and attained. By this definition, government includes all persons, institutions, organizations and agencies that are vested with the legitimate use of force to make, enforce and execute, interpret laws and punish offenders in the state.

However, the whole organization and activities of law-making law, implementation and the interpretation of laws in the state, are carried out by three principal actors, agencies or institutions of government usually called the organs or arms of government.