The recent passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Edwin Clark, two elder statesmen who played significant roles in Nigeria’s struggle for independence and development, has left a void in the country’s political landscape.
Despite their advanced age, both men remained vocal advocates for good governance, fairness, justice, and equity until their demise.
Adebanjo and Clark were part of Nigeria’s independence struggle and witnessed the country’s transition from colonial rule to independence. They also experienced the First Republic, the Civil War, and the various military regimes that followed. Throughout their lives, they remained committed to the ideals of a better Nigeria, participating in conferences and advocating for restructuring and good governance.
Their efforts, however, did not yield the desired results, leaving one to wonder how frustrating it must have been for them to see Nigeria’s decline over the years. The country’s golden era, which spanned from 1950 to 1966, was followed by a silver era that ended in 1983. Since then, Nigeria has struggled to regain its footing, with the country’s development indices declining steadily.
The impact of Nigeria’s decline is evident in various aspects of life. For instance, the value of the naira has plummeted, making it difficult for Nigerians to afford basic necessities. The education system has also suffered, with many Nigerians seeking educational opportunities abroad. The healthcare system is in shambles, with many Nigerians traveling abroad for medical treatment.
The exit of Adebanjo and Clark serves as a reminder of the importance of implementing the suggestions of restructuring that they and other patriots have been advocating for decades. It is imperative for Nigerians and their leadership to work towards creating a better country, one that is built on the principles of fairness, justice, and equity.
As Dr. Bitrus Pogu, National President of the Middle Belt Forum, noted, “We shall continue to stand by the ideals Pa Adebanjo and Chief Clark stood for”. This commitment to their ideals is a testament to the enduring legacy of these two elder statesmen.
In conclusion, the passing of Adebanjo and Clark is a significant loss for Nigeria, but their legacy lives on. It is now up to Nigerians and their leadership to build on the foundation laid by these two patriots and work towards creating a better Nigeria for all.