2027: ADC moves to review constitution to boost election chances

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has initiated another major internal reform process with the inauguration of its Constitution Review Committee, a move the party said is critical to strengthening its internal democracy and positioning it as a credible national alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The extant Constitution, which has been in effect since the party’s inception in 2006, has undergone several reviews and contentious amendments, some of which have led to litigation.

Inaugurating the committee on Thursday at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, the National Chairman of the ADC, Senator David Mark, said the exercise was central to the growth and institutional strengthening of the relatively young party.

The 22-member committee, chaired by Etigwe Uwa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), includes former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Emeka Ihedioha, former party National Chairman Chief Ralph Nwosu, former Minority Leader Hon. Mohammed Kumaila, Senator E.Y. Orker Jev, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Professor Lawal Salihu, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Ibrahim Adamu, Professor Mohammed Sani Bello, and former House of Representatives member Hon. C.I.D. Maduabum, among others.

The committee is mandated to conduct a comprehensive review of the existing ADC constitution and identify areas requiring amendment, clarification, or updating, as well as ensure alignment with global best practices in democratic governance and party administration.

In addition, the group is expected to review the structures of the party, electoral and disciplinary processes, membership administration, and compliance with Nigeria’s constitution and electoral laws.

The committee was mandated to submit an interim report with proposed amendments to the National Working Committee within 30 days.

The National Chairman described the constitution review as a demonstration of the party’s resolve to build strong democratic values, internal cohesion, and effective governance, stressing that the party’s constitution remains its foundational guide as well as safeguarding its internal democracy.

Mark said the review had become necessary as the party expands in reach and responsibility, adding that the goal was to ensure the constitution reflects present realities, anticipates future challenges, and aligns with global best practices in Democratic Party administration.

Noting that the exercise was not aimed at altering the party’s core ideals, the former Senate President said, “This exercise is not about changing principles; it is about strengthening them.

“It is about ensuring clarity, fairness, inclusiveness, and accountability in our structures and processes.”

He said the revised constitution must empower members, promote unity, resolve disputes fairly, and position the ADC as “a credible alternative for national leadership.”

Charging members of the committee, Mark urged them to approach the assignment with open minds and broad consultations, “You must listen to the voices of party members at all levels, respect our founding values, and produce a constitution that strengthens internal democracy, enhances discipline, and guarantees transparency in party affairs,” he added.

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Mark expressed confidence that the process would strengthen the ADC’s democratic culture and better prepare the party for national political engagement ahead of 2027.

Responding, the committee Chairman, Uwa, pledged the readiness of the members to deliver a revised document that strengthens internal democracy, accountability, and efficiency in party administration.

He stressed that the review exercise was aimed at improving the existing Constitution, not faulting it, while expressing confidence that the outcome would produce a practical and widely acceptable framework for the party’s future operations

He assured that all necessary intellectual and institutional resources would be deployed to complete the assignment successfully, while disclosing plans to consult widely with party stakeholders across the country to ensure the final document reflects the expectations of members and the wider public.

The committee said the review would focus on opening up key constitutional provisions to promote transparency, improve internal governance, and support a more inclusive and functional party structure, particularly at the grassroots level.

He stressed that the revised Constitution would be broad and enabling, avoiding excessive detail while providing clear, fair, and transparent processes for the selection of party officials and candidates for elective positions, in line with best democratic practices.