From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has reiterated its longstanding call for the restructuring of Nigeria, with a particular emphasis on the devolution of power and the granting of greater autonomy to the various regions of the federation.
Speaking with Salient Times News , National Chairman of PANDEF Ambassador Godknows Igali emphasized that Nigeria’s current centralised structure continues to hinder meaningful development, especially in resource-rich but underdeveloped regions like the Niger Delta.
They argued that without a shift to true federalism, the country will continue to experience economic and social stagnation.
According to PANDEF, granting more power and fiscal control to regions will allow for better governance, improved infrastructure, and greater accountability.
The forum maintained that states and regions should have control over the resources generated within their territories, while only contributing an agreed percentage to the central government.
“We are not calling for secession,” one of the leaders clarified, “but for a return to the federal principles agreed upon by Nigeria’s founding fathers. The Niger Delta is tired of being exploited while our communities suffer from poverty and environmental degradation.”
The group also condemned the federal government’s lukewarm attitude toward implementing previous recommendations made by constitutional review committees and national conferences.
They insisted that restructuring Nigeria is no longer a matter of choice but of urgent necessity to guarantee peace, equity, and national cohesion.
PANDEF’s renewed call comes amid increasing agitation across various regions of the country, with similar demands for regional control of resources, state police, and the creation of local governments by states.
The forum urged President Bola Tinubu to demonstrate political will by leading the nation into a new era of equity and justice through constitutional amendments that reflect true federalism.
As debates on the future of Nigeria’s structure continue, PANDEF reaffirmed its commitment to using peaceful dialogue and democratic processes to push for a more balanced and inclusive federation.
