By Smart Chuks
The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has once again stressed that the future of Nigeria depends on restructuring and a return to true federalism. According to the group, the centralised system of governance currently in place has failed to address the nation’s numerous political, economic, and security challenges. For Afenifere, the path to national stability lies in the embrace of regional government, which would empower states and regions to take greater control of their affairs while strengthening the union as a whole.
This call was reiterated during a caucus meeting held at the residence of the group’s national leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, in Akure, the Ondo State capital. According to a communiqué issued by Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, decentralisation is not a threat to Nigeria’s unity but the most realistic way to preserve it.
Restructuring as the Foundation for National Renewal
For decades, Afenifere has been at the forefront of calls for restructuring. At the heart of this demand is the recognition that Nigeria, a nation of over 200 million people with diverse ethnic, cultural, and religious identities, cannot thrive under a highly centralised system.
The present federal arrangement places too much power in the hands of the central government in Abuja, leaving states weak and overly dependent. This has created inefficiency, corruption, and widespread discontent. By advocating regional government, Afenifere insists that Nigeria can unlock the full potential of its people and resources.
Restructuring would mean stronger states and regions with control over security, natural resources, and taxation. It would enable the establishment of state and regional policing that responds to local realities, ensure decentralised governance where local governments are truly autonomous, and create a fairer revenue allocation system that reduces dependence on the federal purse. Ultimately, it would reduce ethnic tension by giving regions a sense of ownership while keeping Nigeria united.
The Security Dimension: State Police as a Necessity
Nigeria’s worsening security crisis has further strengthened Afenifere’s position. The organisation decried the alarming rise of kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism across the country, particularly in the Southwest. The group warned that without urgent reforms, criminal elements will continue to overwhelm both citizens and security institutions.
Afenifere called on the Federal Government and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to redesign the security architecture to make it more proactive and intelligence-driven. Beyond federal efforts, however, the group stressed that state governments, especially in Yorubaland, must take responsibility by strengthening local security initiatives such as Amotekun, the regional security outfit established in the Southwest.
The communiqué urged that Amotekun personnel be increased, well-motivated, and properly trained. It further called for the deployment of modern technology such as drones and advanced surveillance systems. Collaboration with local communities for intelligence gathering was also emphasised as a key step toward restoring peace and order.
For Afenifere, the creation of state police is not optional but a necessity if Nigeria is to overcome its security challenges.
Why Regional Government Matters
To understand the urgency of Afenifere’s call, it is important to recall Nigeria’s historical experience. Before the military takeover of 1966, Nigeria practiced a regional system of government in which the Northern, Western, Eastern, and Midwestern regions enjoyed considerable autonomy. These regions had their own constitutions, police forces, and economic policies.
During this era, Nigeria witnessed impressive growth. The Western Region under Chief Obafemi Awolowo pioneered free education, healthcare reforms, and industrial development. The North and East also recorded significant achievements in agriculture and commerce.
However, following military rule, the country adopted a unitary system disguised as federalism. This stripped regions of their powers, creating overdependence on oil revenues controlled by the central government. The result has been decades of poor governance, inequality, and recurring agitation for self-determination.
Afenifere believes that returning to a system that allows regions to manage their resources and security is the only way to prevent Nigeria from sliding deeper into instability.
The Economic Argument for Restructuring
The economic case for regional government is just as compelling as the political one. Today, Nigeria’s economy faces rising unemployment, inflation, and overreliance on oil. Many states are financially weak and unable to pay salaries or invest in infrastructure without monthly federal allocations.
Restructuring would allow regions to harness local resources such as agriculture, solid minerals, and tourism. It would encourage the development of local industries tailored to regional strengths, enable states to raise and retain revenues, and reduce wasteful bureaucracy by cutting down on central dominance.
Experts argue that this would unleash competition among regions, drive innovation, and attract investment, much like was seen in the First Republic.
Critics and Counterarguments
Not everyone agrees with Afenifere’s prescription. Critics of restructuring argue that Nigeria’s diversity makes decentralisation risky, fearing it could fuel secessionist movements. Others worry that corrupt state leaders may misuse increased powers.
However, Afenifere counters that true federalism does not weaken unity but strengthens it. By giving people a sense of ownership and control, regional government reduces agitation for breakaway. Moreover, corruption is not unique to the states; the central government itself has been a hub of mismanagement. Restructuring, they argue, would create more checks and balances across levels of governance.
Implications for Nigerian Democracy
The debate on restructuring is not just about governance—it is about the future of Nigerian democracy. Citizens across the country increasingly feel disconnected from decision-making, as most power lies in Abuja. This centralisation fuels disillusionment, voter apathy, and even radical movements.
By devolving power, Nigeria can strengthen democratic participation at the grassroots, restore accountability, and promote inclusiveness. In this sense, Afenifere’s call is both a warning and a roadmap for renewal.
Regional Government as a Path to National Unity
Ironically, while opponents fear that restructuring could divide Nigeria, many analysts believe it is the only way to preserve national unity. By granting regions autonomy, grievances can be managed internally rather than escalating into national crises.
The Yoruba call for restructuring echoes similar demands in the South-East, the South-South, and even parts of the North. The growing consensus suggests that Nigeria must adapt its governance model if it is to survive as a united country.
The Way Forward
For restructuring to succeed, stakeholders agree that several steps must be taken. First, there must be political will at the federal level, supported by the National Assembly. Second, Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, often criticised as a military document, must be rewritten to reflect true federal principles.
National dialogue involving all regions, civil society, and youth groups should be convened to agree on modalities. Restructuring should be implemented gradually, starting with state policing and revenue reforms. Most importantly, Nigerians must be sensitised on the benefits of restructuring to prevent misinformation and political manipulation.
Conclusion
The message from Afenifere is clear: Nigeria cannot continue on its current path. The centralised system has failed to deliver security, prosperity, or unity. Restructuring through regional government and state policing is not just an option—it is a necessity for national survival.
As insecurity escalates and the economy falters, the call for true federalism will only grow louder. Whether the Federal Government listens and acts may well determine Nigeria’s future as a stable and united country.
Author: Smart Chuks
Smart Chuks is a political analyst and journalist with a passion for Nigerian governance, security, and socio-economic reforms. He writes extensively on national issues, democracy, and development strategies for Africa.
