TRG lauds M/Belt group over support for restructuring 

A non-governmental organization dedicated to the realization of a new Nigeria that is truly federal, The Rebirth Group (TRG), has commended the Coalition of Indigenous Middle Belt Organisations (CIMBO), for its declaration of support for restructuring the country into regions for the purpose of ensuring “self-determination and promote national unity”.

The commendation was contained in a statement by the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the group, Ambassador Yemi Farounbi; Convener, Deacon Owolabi Oladejo, and Col. C. B. D Waziri, in reaction to the outcome of a two-day conference held in Kaduna on Friday, August 30, and Saturday 31, 2024 by CIMBO in which it stated clearly that “the constitution should be re-written to “guarantee justice, equity and control over land and natural resources.”

The TRG, which is an arm of New Nation Enlightenment Foundation (NNEF), stated that the position of CIMBO as contained in the communique after its Kaduna Conference, “serves as a beacon of hope for achieving a truly inclusive and representative governance structure”.

The group which is advocating for the restructuring of Nigeria into six or eight regions, was enthusiastic over the growing calls for restructuring, citing among others, the recent visit of The Patriots led by the elder statesman, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, to President Bola Tinubu at Aso Rock, Abuja, where it demanded for the restructuring of Nigeria and the abrogation of the 1999 national Constitution.

It also referenced the unrelenting advocacy of restructuring by the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organization, Afenifere as well as that of the Southern and Middle Belt Leadership Forum (SMBLF) under the leadership of the elder statesman, Pa Edwin Clark.

The Rebirth Group also acknowledged the view of the President, Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, who had stated that, “Having experimented with the presidential system of government for over 25 years and having groped in the dark in search of solutions to our socio-economic problems”, this seems to be the opportune time “to heed the advice of some of our best minds who are advocating a return to the former regional system of government as envisaged by the wise founding fathers of our nation, or to devolve power to the current six geopolitical zones.”

It similarly alluded to a symposium recently organized by an Itsekiri socio-cultural group in Warri, Delta State,  Ugbarajo Iwere Leaders Foundation, to commemorate the 3rd coronation anniversary of Olu of Warri, Oba Ogiame Atuwatse III, which emphasized the urgent need “to restructure the country to address the multitude of challenges affecting our nation.”

The Rebirth Group while observing that “these calls reflect a broader desire among our people for a more balanced and fair governance structure that can effectively address the unique challenges faced by Nigeria’s diverse population”, commended the CIMBO for “joining the league of those who are pressing for the restructuring of the country”.

It maintained that restructuring at this moment “is very essential for the peaceful coexistence and economic prosperity of all Nigerians. Such will pave the way for a more balanced and equitable future, where every citizen, irrespective of their ethnic background, has a voice and stake in our collective progress.”