Dr. Akin Fapohunda, Director of Research at the Afenifere socio-political organization, has renewed calls for constitutional restructuring, arguing that greater regional autonomy is key to addressing Nigeria’s governance challenges.
Speaking during an appearance on Symfoni TV on June 10, 2026, Fapohunda said the concentration of power at the federal level has contributed to political tensions and hindered development across the country.
He advocated a decentralized system that would grant regions more authority to manage their affairs according to their specific needs and priorities. According to him, such a structure would improve accountability, encourage competition among regions, and reduce the intense struggle for control of the federal government.
While making his case, Fapohunda referenced former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.
“If Peter Obi thinks he is good, let him go and run the South-East,” he said.
Fapohunda explained that political leaders should place greater emphasis on governing and developing their regions rather than focusing primarily on presidential ambitions.
He argued that regional governments should have increased responsibility for critical sectors such as security, education, infrastructure, and economic development. This, he said, would enable citizens to better assess the performance of their leaders through measurable results.
According to him, Nigeria’s current political structure encourages excessive competition for federal power, often at the expense of regional development. He maintained that restructuring the federation could create a more balanced and efficient system of governance.
Fapohunda concluded by calling for meaningful national conversations on constitutional reform, stressing that Nigeria’s long-term stability, unity, and progress would be strengthened through a system that empowers the regions while preserving national cooperation.
