This review investigates the pervasive rise of administrative authoritarianism in universities across developing nations. The study analyzes how institutional heads—such as deans, chairpersons, and administrators—have shifted from their legitimate facilitative roles to dictatorial control, undermining academic autonomy and innovation. Drawing on historical context, theoretical frameworks, and empirical evidence from UNESCO, OECD, and the Global Observatory on Academic Freedom, it highlights the structural, political, and cultural origins of this dysfunction. Evidence from South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East reveals how bureaucratic dominance degrades academic quality, research freedom, and institutional morale. The review concludes with recommendations to restore shared governance, servant leadership, and respect for academic self-determination.