A coalition of Yoruba and Igbo self-determination groups, operating under the banner Coalition to De-amalgamate Nigeria for Security (CODES), has announced a formal alliance advocating the peaceful de-amalgamation of Nigeria. The group argues that worsening insecurity, deep mistrust, and unresolved historical grievances have made the country’s current structure increasingly difficult to sustain.
The declaration followed a virtual world conference and press briefing, where the coalition described its position as a lawful and non-violent pursuit of self-determination. In a communique signed by leaders from both movements, CODES said its collaboration reflects “a moral and security imperative,” rather than extremism, insisting that its goal is dignity, safety, and political consent for affected communities.
Signatories to the communique include prominent Yoruba self-determination figures such as Prof. Banji Akintoye, Chief Sunday Adeyemo (Igboho), Architect George Akinola, and Dr. Kayode Emola, alongside Igbo representatives including Mazi Tony Nwisi, Mazi Emmanuel Kanu, Mazi Ositadimma Igenu, and Prof. Chinedu Agbodike, all acting under the CODES platform.
CODES argued that Nigeria’s present challenges stem partly from the 1914 colonial amalgamation and decades of centralised governance, which it said were imposed without the full consent of the diverse ethnic nationalities. According to the coalition, persistent insecurity and governance gaps have weakened public confidence in the federal system.
The group raised concerns about violence and displacement in several regions, alleging inadequate protection for communities and selective enforcement of the law. It also criticised what it described as the treatment of self-determination advocates, saying this has further eroded trust between citizens and the state.
Invoking international legal frameworks, including provisions on self-determination in global and regional charters, CODES called for what it described as internationally recognised and peaceful processes, including referendums for interested regions. Among its demands were the release of individuals detained over self-determination advocacy and international attention to security challenges facing vulnerable communities.
The coalition stressed that its alliance is not a call for conflict but a push for dialogue and lawful processes aimed at long-term peace and stability. It maintained that peaceful self-determination, in its view, remains the only viable path to addressing deep-seated tensions and restoring a sense of safety and legitimacy for affected populations.
