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According to a report by Nigerian Tribune on Saturday, June 13, 2026, Dr Akin Fapohunda, Director of Research of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation Afenifere and a retired Director of Space Science in the Office of the National Security Adviser from the Federal Civil Service, is speaking in an interview about the organisation’s position on the current socio-political climate in Nigeria, with particular attention to developments in the South-West region.
He addressed concerns surrounding the issue of restructuring, a long-standing priority within Afenifere and other pro-democracy movements.
The matter, which was once central to national discourse, is now perceived by some as having lost prominence in political conversations.
He was asked how the subject could be brought back to the forefront, especially given Afenifere’s continued advocacy on constitutional restructuring and governance reforms.
According to him, the current political environment reflects shifting realities shaped by recent electoral dynamics.
He linked the emergence of the present administration to strong political messaging and strategic mobilisation that influenced voter sentiment across the country.
He suggested that these developments have contributed to changing the direction of national debates, including those relating to restructuring.
He further explained that political norms and expectations have been significantly altered in recent times.
In his view, the process leading to the current leadership involved unconventional strategies and a departure from established political patterns.
He pointed to the way alliances were formed and the intensity of political competition, noting that these factors have reshaped how governance issues are prioritised in national discussions.
He also reflected on the broader environment in which political decisions are made, describing a system influenced by longstanding structural challenges.
He referenced issues such as patronage politics and the influence of financial strength in electoral processes, suggesting that these realities are part of a wider historical pattern inherited from earlier governance systems.
He indicated that such conditions continue to affect the way national conversations, including restructuring, are pursued or sidelined.
In discussing the implications for Afenifere’s advocacy, he maintained that the organisation remains committed to its core principles, even as the political space evolves.
He noted that sustaining attention on restructuring requires continuous engagement with both policymakers and the public, particularly in a context where other political priorities dominate national discourse.
He emphasized that the South-West region continues to play a significant role in shaping these discussions within the broader Nigerian federation.
He stated: “It is because Tinubu used Emilokan Mantra to smash his way into power. He broke all norms – Muslim-Muslim ticket, money politics, buying this, buying that because of the way we have a corruptive society handed over by the military. So, he appears to have been succeeding.”
