By Dapo Akinrefon

THE Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has restated the need for restructuring, noting that it will correct the structural imbalances in Nigeria.

Adams also expressed sadness that Nigeria has continued to lose grip of what makes it the giant among the comity of nations, adding that it is obvious that Nigeria is no longer the giant of Africa.

Speaking at the grand finale of the 30th anniversary of the Oodua People’s Congress, OPC, in Lagos, Adams said the position of OPC on restructuring is sacrosanct adding that the socio-cultural organization will continue to be the pride of the Yoruba race and Nigeria as a whole.

He said: “Our major problem is the structural imbalances of Nigeria. As far as the OPC is concerned, there is a need for restructuring in Nigeria.

“The restructuring must be tied to regionalism with a reflection of the 1960/1963 constitutions, where all the six geo-political zones can develop at their pace.

“This will reduce the burden on the Federal Government and it will enhance the socio-economic progress in Nigeria.

“We are in a very difficult situation now in the country and if we don’t restructure Nigeria now, in the next few years, Nigeria may go down as the 20th economy in Africa.

“This is the reality of the present situation in the country, as it centres on the structural imbalances of Nigeria as a nation.”

The OPC National Coordinator, while noting that over the years, several prominent personalities had supported the OPC in its struggle, paid tributes to sitting and past governors and traditional rulers in South West.

Meanwhile, South West governors in their different remarks commended Adams and the OPC for their contribution to security in the region as well as their promotion of Yoruba culture and traditions to the world.