By Clifford Ndujihe, Politics Editor

The late Chiefs Ayo Adebanjo and Edwin Kiagbodo Clark shared a vision with late elder statesman, Chief Anthony Eromosele Enahoro, and a host of others.

They wanted Nigeria restructured to true federalism, and died fighting for the cause.

Asked in 2005 why he was still in the trenches at 82 waging a struggle that he started around the age of 21, Chief Enahoro said: “The youth of my generation set out to struggle for freedom, modernization and democracy. As you know, we succeeded with freedom. We also succeeded, to a great extent, with modernization, but it is sad that Nigeria has had a deplorable record with democratization. We have failed so far.

“Until that goal is realised, I consider it a betrayal of the dreams of my generation and colleagues, many of whom died in our struggles, to retreat. I refuse to believe that destiny has let me live so long in reasonable health for me to betray our struggle and selfishly confine myself to personal matters.”

Indeed, Enahoro continued the struggle for another five years until he died on December 15, 2010 at 87.

Like him, Adebanjo and Clark waged the war for true federalism, restructuring, resource control, equity, justice and fairness until they expired.

While Adebanjo died on February 14, 2025 aged 96, Clark joined him three days later on February 17, aged 97.

Like the trio, the polity is replete with a litany of statesmen, who fought for a restructured Nigeria and died in the crusade especially since 1999.

Those, who died in the restructuring battle include Chief Michael Ajasin, Senator Abraham Adesanya, Chief FRA Williams, Chief MCK Ajuluchukwu, Professor Ben Nwabueze, Air Commodore Dan Suleiman, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife, and Professor Kimse Okoko.

Following the death of Adebanjo and Clark, considered as titans and pillars of true federalism and restructuring, a void has been created in the polity.

There are concerns over the fate of the restructuring crusade. With President Bola Tinubu’s perceived indisposition to the campaign, is it the end of the crusade? Will Nigeria remain unrestructured with the attendant and avoidable socio-economic challenges? Who will take up the gauntlet and continue from where Adebanjo and Clark stopped?

Posed the above questions, Alhaji Yerimma Shettima, Chiefs Chekwas Okorie, Goddy Uwazuruike, and Peter Ameh, and The Patriots, a group of eminent Nigerian citizens, admitted that the absence of the duo will cause a huge set back but assured that the restructuring campaign flame would be kept aglow.

Specifically, The Patriots, in a tribute to the two titans by its Secretary, Comrade Wale Okunniyi, said it would take concrete steps to immortalise the legacies of the duo by continuing the restructuring campaign.

 It’s to redouble efforts — Chekwas Okorie

 Speaking on the issue, Founder of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, and a chieftain of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Chekwas Okorie said: “There is no doubt that the death of two renowned elderstatesmen, Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Edwin Clark, within a short space of three days of each other, constitutes an unmitigated setback to the age-long struggle for the restructuring of Nigeria to usher in true federalism in Nigeria. 

“It must be noted that the agitation for the restructuring of Nigeria was triggered by the lopsidedness in the geopolitical structure of the country that was deliberately imposed on Nigerians by succeeding military governments which was consolidated in the obnoxious 1999 constitution of the Federation Republic of Nigeria handed down by the military government of General Abdulsalami Abubakar before the advent of the post-military democratic government led by Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as President. 

“General Abdulsalami Abubakar’s administration inserted stringent provisions in the constitution of Nigeria that made the amendment of critical aspects of the constitution almost impossible to achieve. The mischievous intention of these obstacles was to make a certain section of the country continuously preponderant over the rest of Nigeria. The only peaceful option to make Nigeria equitable, justiciable, and fair to all its multi-religious and diverse ethnic nationalities is to reset the damage done to the country by various military governments through a holistic political and economic restructuring of the country. 

“Unfortunately, the beneficiaries of Nigeria’s obnoxious constitution always resisted all genuine efforts made in this regard in order to sustain the status quo.

“Without being immodest, Nigerians will easily admit that I am one of the vocal advocates of true federalism. I may also claim, without any fear of contradiction, that the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, which I founded in 2002, remains until this date, the only registered political party in Nigeria, which manifesto and the objective principles of its constitution contain copious provisions for true federalism, resource control, self-determination of Nigeria’s ethnic nationalities within the context of one Nigeria, etc. 

“It is disappointing that the restructuring of Nigeria, which is a patriotic national project and essentially political, is left in the hands of individuals and socio-political organisations to pursue. It is fortuitous that noble and eminent elderstatesmen like Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Arc. Victor Atta, former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Chief Solomon Asemota SAN, leader of EthnicNationalities Forum, are still around to lend powerful voices to the unavoidable and indispensable project of restructuring Nigeria. The coalition of the Middle-Belt Forum, Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and PANDEF is resolute in continuing the struggle.

There are indications that President Tinubu is still desirous of a restructured Nigeria, but l imagine that he needs a certain kind of help from the political class and socio-political organizations. What we owe our departed frontline leaders, Chief Edwin Clark and Chief Ayo Adebanjo, is to redouble our efforts to actualise the realisation of true federalism in Nigeria which these iconic leaders devoted their lives to until they were recalled by their Creator.”

Adebanjo, EK Clark’ve set unassailable momentum — Shettima

 On his part, the President General, Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, AYCF, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, said: “The passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo and Pa Edwin Clark, two prominent champions of federalism and restructuring in Nigeria, should not cast shadows over the ongoing campaign for a more decentralised political structure. These men, pillars of the movement, dedicated decades to advocating for a system that empowers constituent states and regions, fostering greater equity and development. While their physical absence is profoundly felt, their legacy and the momentum they generated are far from extinguished. 

“President Bola Tinubu’s perceived reluctance to embrace their vision, however, introduces a significant challenge. Yet, the continued involvement of groups like the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, AYCF, and others demonstrates that the fight for restructuring is far from over. It remains a critical conversation for Nigeria’s future.

“One of the core arguments for restructuring hinges on the principle of fairness and equity. Pa Adebanjo and Pa Clark consistently highlighted the imbalances inherent in Nigeria’s current centralised system.

“Resources are often disproportionately allocated, favouring certain regions to the detriment of others. This creates economic disparities and fosters resentment, threatening national unity. “Restructuring would allow for greater autonomy in resource management, taxation, and development planning at the state level. This would empower regions to cater to their specific needs and priorities, leading to more inclusive growth and a reduction in regional tensions. The advocacy wasn’t merely about political power; it was about economic justice and the alleviation of poverty in marginalised communities.

“The perceived resistance from President Tinubu’s administration poses a substantial hurdle. While the president has made pronouncements on national unity and development, concrete steps towards restructuring remain elusive. This lack of decisive action can be interpreted in multiple ways: a cautious approach, a prioritisation of other pressing issues, or a fundamental disagreement with the restructuring agenda itself. The silence or perceived opposition, risks alienating those who believe restructuring is crucial for Nigeria’s long-term stability.

“However, the demise of Pa Adebanjo and Pa Clark does not signal the end of the campaign. The commitment to restructuring transcends individual personalities. Groups like the AYCF, representing a significant segment of the Nigerian populace, continue to actively engage in the discourse. These youth-led organisations often represent a fresh perspective, bringing renewed energy and a different approach to the debate. Their participation underscores the broad-based nature of the movement and its enduring relevance across generations. “They represent a younger generation inheriting the challenges and taking up the mantle of advocating for change. Their voices, alongside other civil society organisations and activists, ensure the conversation remains alive and dynamic.”

 Why restructuring campaign won’t die — Uwazuruike

 To Chief Goddy Uwazurike, President, Cultural Credibility Initiative, CCDI, a former President of Igbo-think tank, Aka-Ikenga, and a chieftain of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, “ideas do not die with people who championed them unless they were hidden.”

He continued: “Chiefs Ayo Adebanjo and Edwin Clark did not hide their knowledge and ideas. They impacted on us the younger generation what they believed in.

“They were detailed and persistent in talking to us about restructuring, good governance , fairness and justice. They took us down memory lane. We were thought what is and what ought to be.

“They thought us the values of democracy. The idea will germinate and yield good fruits even though some who championed the idea years ago got to power and not only ditched the ideas of restructuring but turned against them.

“To those who have abandoned our ideas, we can assure them that the ideas the two great men preached until death will survive and reach the desired destination.”

 Restructuring beyond loss of the two giants — Ameh

 Chief Peter Ameh, a former presidential candidate and national chairman of the Coalition of United Political Parties, CUPP, said: “The passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo and Pa Edwin Clark, two stalwarts of the restructuring campaign in Nigeria, has left a gaping void in the movement. Both men were unwavering advocates for true federalism and restructuring, and their contributions to the debate will be deeply missed. With President Tinubu’s perceived reluctance to engage with the campaign, the question on everyone’s lips is: what happens next?

“Historically, the call for restructuring in Nigeria has been a longstanding one. “Our country’s federal system has been criticised for being overly centralised, with many including the Bola Tinubu before he became President arguing that it perpetuates inequality and undermines the principles of federalism. “The likes of Adebanjo and Clark had been at the forefront of this debate, advocating for a more decentralised system that empowers states and local governments.

“So, does the passing of these two giants mark the end of the campaign? The answer is a resounding no. While their absence will undoubtedly be felt, there are still many voices committed to carrying on their legacy. The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum, SMBLF, which Adebanjo and Clark were a part of, remains a vocal advocate for restructuring. Other groups and individuals will need to step up and fill the void left by these two leaders.

“The fact that President Tinubu may not be inclined to support the campaign does not mean it will dissipate. If anything, it may galvanise supporters to redouble their efforts. The restructuring debate is not a partisan issue; it is a national one. Nigerians from all walks of life are affected by the country’s flawed federal system, and it is incumbent on the government to listen to their concerns inorder to make Nigeria work better for all people.

“While the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo and Pa Edwin Clark is a significant blow to the restructuring campaign, it is by no means the end. Their legacy will live on through the countless individuals and groups they inspired. As Nigeria continues to grapple with the complexities of its federal system, it is imperative that the campaign for restructuring remains a vibrant and vital part of the national conversation.”

 What we owe Adebanjo— Okorie

 In a special tribute to Adebanjo, Chief Okorie said the late elder statesman was an “irrepressible champion of true federalism in Nigeria,” whose death took the public by surprise even though he died at the ripe age of 96.

His words: “Chief Ayo Adebanjo was a Nigerian statesman and a quintessential nationalist. His kind, who are still alive in Nigeria, can be counted on the fingertips. I have always been enamored by his courage, forthrightness, sincerity, and the power of his convictions. I remember with nostalgia, the epic presidential media chat we had with President Olusegun Obasanjo in the year 2000 at the Aso Rock presidential villa. Chief Ayo Adebanjo represented the Afenifere on the panel, Dr. Paul Unongo represented the Arewa Consultative Assembly, and l was nominated by the Imeobi to represent the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. President Olusegun Obasanjo was the host, while Prof Tonnie Osa Iredia anchored the chat.

“That was my first personal encounter with Chief Ayo Adebanjo. 

“Coincidentally, Chief Adebanjo and I were on the same page on the national issues that came up during the chat. It will be recalled that it was Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu that first promoted the idea of a “Handshake Across The Niger” to encourage Igbo-Yoruba rapprochement. Chief Ayo Adebanjo and other Afenifere leaders keyed into it. 

“When Chief Solomon Asemota SAN, came up with an expanded version called Nigerian Ethnic Nationalities Forum, it was promptly embraced by the leaders of Igbo, Yoruba, Middlebelt, and South-South. Chief Ayo Adebanjo was a strong pillar of this national initiative to unit all the Ethnic Nationalities in Nigeria in the noble pursuit of true federalism and the self-determination of ethnic nationalities within the context of one Nigeria. 

“Meetings were held in Lagos most of the time. But in 2004, a historic meeting of the Forum took place at Dim Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s residence, which attracted for the first time in recent history the first-eleven Yoruba leaders to Enugu to meet on matters of National unity. 

“Yoruba leaders who attended the Enugu meeting included Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Chief Fasoranti, Chief Adefarasin, Chief Ajayi, Senator Femi Okorunmu, and Chief Supo Shonibare. Dim Odumegwu-Ojukwu (host), Dr. Offia Nwali and my humble self were also in attendance, including Chief Solomon Asemota and the General Secretary of the Ijaw National Congress who stood in for Prof. Kimse Okoko. Commodore Dan Suleiman, the leader of the Middle-Belt Forum, was also in attendance. 

“Over the years, my respect for Chief Ayo Adebanjo grew to the point that I began to admire him as a role model. This was a man who never held an elective office in Nigeria but remained most prominent and highly respected nationwide for his nationalism, consistency in the pursuit of a restructured Nigeria, equity, justice, and fairness as the panacea for national development and unity.  “The greatest honour we owe Chief Ayo Adebanjo is to sustain the struggle for true federalism, which he fought for until the end and until it is achieved in the interest of present and future generations of Nigerians.”

Prominent Nigerians who died without achieving restructuring

 •FRA Williams

•MCK Ajuluchukwu

•Abraham Adesanya

•Olanihun Ajayi

•Solanke Onasanya

•Chief Chukwuemeka 

   Odumegwu-Ojukwu

•Air Commodore Dan Suleiman

•Alhaji Balarabe Musa

•Dr. Frederick Fasehun

•Chief Mbazulike Amaechi

•Chief Guy Ikokwu

•Professor Ben Nwabueze

•Chief Anthony Enahoro

•Professor Kimse Okoko

•Chief Frank Kokori

•Dr.Chukwuemeka Ezeife

•Alhaji Ganiyu Dawodu

•Dr Tunji Braithwaite

•DR.Tunji Otegbeye

•Professor George Obiozor

•Chief Francis Ellah

•Professor Ben Obumselu

•Professor Ejike Chiweite

•Mr.Yinka Odumakin

Fighters and crusaders 

still alive

 •Obong Victor Attah

•Chief Emeka Anyaoku

•Professor Anya O Anya

•Professor Wole Soyinka

•Professor Bola Akinyemi

•Senator Kofoworola 

 Bucknor-Akerele

•Chief Supo Shonibare

•Senator Femi Okurounmu

•Chief Solomon Asemota

•Ms Ann Kio-Briggs

•Professor Mike Ozekhome

Mr Elliot Ugochukwu-Uko

•Chief Chekwas Okorie

•Alhaji Shettima Yerimma

•Comrade Wale Okunniyi

•Iba Gani Adams

•Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah

•Chief Goddy Uwazuruike

•Professor Pat Utomi