Isanya Ogbo, Ogun State – The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization Afenifere has vowed to mobilize against what it describes as unitarianism in Nigerian politics, reaffirming its commitment to resist practices that undermine the country’s federal structure. This declaration was made in a communique following Afenifere’s monthly meeting at the residence of its leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
The statement, released by Deputy Leader Oba Oladipo Olaitan and Justice Faloye, highlighted Afenifere’s determination to unite with democratic forces and fellow Nigerians who appreciate the nation’s diversity. The organization expressed its strong support for transitioning from the current presidential system, which it criticized as “corrupt” and “too expensive,” to a parliamentary government that aligns more closely with federalism.
Afenifere specifically addressed the introduction of a bill to establish a National Independent Local Government Electoral Commission (NILGEC) for conducting local government elections, calling it a “monumental multiplication of INEC’s inefficiencies.” The organization argued that creating a federal agency to oversee local government elections is a means to facilitate the central government’s policy of capturing and undermining the federal structure of Nigeria.
The statement condemned what Afenifere described as “political rascality” aimed at stifling democracy and denounced political gerrymandering that threatens Nigeria’s federalism. It criticized the Federal Government and INEC for their inability to effectively manage even the limited elections mandated by the Constitution, asserting that their actions contribute to the country’s drift toward a unitary state.
Afenifere’s commitment to defending federalism and democracy underscores its role as a key player in Nigerian politics, advocating for a system that respects the autonomy and diversity of its various regions.