The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams,
By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, has called for an urgent return to true federalism in Nigeria, describing the current system of governance as a distorted structure responsible for rising insecurity and persistent underdevelopment across the country.
Adams made the remarks on Wednesday during an interview on Frontline, a current affairs programme aired on Eagle 102.5 FM in Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State. He argued that Nigeria is no longer operating a genuine federal system but has instead evolved into a highly centralised structure that weakens state autonomy and hampers effective governance.
Tracing the roots of the problem, Adams pointed to the post-independence era, particularly the impact of military interventions on Nigeria’s constitutional framework. He explained that at independence in 1960, the country operated a system based on regional autonomy, which allowed each region to develop according to its pace and priorities. However, he said this arrangement was disrupted following the 1966 Nigerian coup d’état, which introduced a unitary style of governance and concentrated power at the centre.
According to him, this centralisation has continued to erode the powers of states and local governments, making it difficult for them to address local challenges effectively. He noted that the exclusive legislative list, which originally contained 45 items at independence, has expanded to 68 items, thereby stripping states of critical responsibilities and authority.
Adams argued that this imbalance has created a dysfunctional system where governors are designated as chief security officers but lack real control over security agencies. He stressed that in practice, directives from governors can be overridden by federal authorities, undermining efforts to maintain security at the state level.
He further linked the structural imbalance to the country’s worsening security situation, insisting that effective policing requires decentralisation. Adams advocated for the establishment of state and community policing systems, noting that Nigeria’s current centralised policing framework is overstretched and inadequate for a population exceeding 200 million.
Drawing comparisons with the United States, he highlighted the presence of multiple layers of policing, including federal, state, and local agencies, which he said allow for more efficient security management and responsiveness to local realities.
Addressing concerns about potential abuse of state police by governors, Adams dismissed such fears as unfounded. He argued that the existing federal policing structure has itself been subject to political manipulation, demonstrating that centralisation does not prevent misuse of power. Instead, he called for proper checks and balances to ensure accountability at all levels.
Beyond security, Adams linked the absence of true federalism to economic stagnation and poor governance. He lamented that the current system discourages initiative among states, as many rely heavily on federal allocations rather than developing independent economic strategies.
He referenced the achievements of past regional leaders such as Obafemi Awolowo and Samuel Ladoke Akintola, noting that their successes were made possible by the autonomy enjoyed under the regional system. According to him, the Western Region witnessed significant progress during that era, including the introduction of free education, scholarship programmes, and the establishment of major institutions.
Adams cited landmark projects like Cocoa House as evidence of what regional autonomy can achieve when leadership is empowered. He lamented that such ambitious development projects have not been replicated under the current system, accusing many state governments of mismanaging or mortgaging public assets.
The Yoruba leader also warned that failure to restructure Nigeria could intensify agitation for secession, as frustration over governance and inequality continues to grow. He pointed to global examples such as the breakup of Sudan and the separation of Bangladesh from Pakistan as outcomes of unresolved political and structural issues.
Adams stressed that Nigeria must act decisively to address its governance challenges, warning that continued delay could deepen divisions and threaten national unity. He maintained that returning to true federalism is not merely a political option but a necessary step for the country’s survival.
He concluded that restructuring Nigeria to reflect genuine federal principles would enhance security, promote economic development, and strengthen national cohesion, insisting that the time to act is now.
