The passing of two titans of Nigeria’s restructuring campaign, Chiefs Ayo Adebanjo and Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, has left a massive void in the struggle for true federalism. These elder statesmen, alongside the late Chief Anthony Enahoro and others, dedicated their lives to advocating for a Nigeria built on fairness, equity, and decentralization of power. Now, with their voices silenced, the big question looms—who will take up the mantle?
The Dream They Fought For
Chief Enahoro once described his lifelong struggle as a mission for freedom, modernization, and democracy. While some gains were made, he lamented that Nigeria continued to falter in democratic governance. Refusing to abandon the cause, he remained steadfast until his passing in 2010 at age 87.
Adebanjo and Clark embodied this same relentless spirit. Up until their last days—Adebanjo at 96, Clark at 97—they fought for a restructured Nigeria, pushing for equity in resource control and political representation. Their advocacy inspired many, but their departure raises concerns about the future of the movement.
A Long Line of Fallen Heroes
Adebanjo and Clark join a growing list of Nigerian leaders who spent their lives campaigning for restructuring but passed without seeing its realization. Among them are Chief Michael Ajasin, Senator Abraham Adesanya, Chief FRA Williams, and Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife. Their collective absence is a significant blow to the movement.
Can the Restructuring Fire Keep Burning?
Some political and socio-political leaders remain optimistic. Alhaji Yerimma Shettima, Chief Chekwas Okorie, Goddy Uwazuruike, Peter Ameh, and The Patriots—an esteemed group of Nigerian intellectuals and activists—have reassured that the struggle will not die with these two icons.
The Patriots’ secretary, Comrade Wale Okunniyi, vowed that Adebanjo and Clark’s legacies would be immortalized by continuing their fight. Similarly, Chief Okorie emphasized that the coalition of Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, PANDEF, and the Middle Belt Forum remains resolute.
The Tinubu Factor: A Roadblock or a Potential Ally?
President Bola Tinubu’s stance on restructuring has been a subject of debate. While some believe he may be inclined toward it, others argue that his administration has shown little interest in pursuing meaningful constitutional reforms. According to Okorie, Tinubu’s perceived reluctance could either stall the movement or ignite a stronger push from civil society and political groups.
What Happens Next?
Advocates argue that restructuring is not merely a political agenda but a necessity for national stability. Nigeria’s current structure, they insist, fosters inequality and stifles development. Without decentralization, regional disparities will persist, deepening socio-economic tensions.
Shettima, representing the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, insists that the movement must continue despite the loss of its leaders. He asserts that the fight transcends individual figures, calling on youth-led organizations to energize the movement with fresh perspectives and new strategies.
Similarly, Chief Ameh of the CUPP warns that if Tinubu does not act, the demand for restructuring will not fade—it will only grow stronger. The challenge now is for younger activists, political leaders, and civil society groups to step up and ensure that the momentum built by Adebanjo, Clark, and their contemporaries is not lost.
Who Will Step Forward?
Though Adebanjo and Clark are gone, other respected figures in Nigerian politics and activism remain. People like Obong Victor Attah, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Prof. Wole Soyinka, and Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah continue to champion the cause. However, a new generation of reformers must rise to take charge, blending experience with innovative strategies to ensure the restructuring dream remains alive.
As Nigeria grapples with governance challenges, economic instability, and regional discontent, restructuring remains an unfinished business. The country must now decide—will the voices calling for change be amplified, or will they fade into silence?
The fight is far from over. But who will be its next champion?
