ADC pushes for internal democracy, accountability with new constitution
From Dele Anofi, Abuja The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has emphasised the supremacy of the party’s constitution, saying it is central to strengthening
From Dele Anofi, Abuja
The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has emphasised the supremacy of the party’s constitution, saying it is central to strengthening its structure, internal democracy and accountability.
Mark, who received the report of the Constitution Review Committee, inaugurated in January, in Abuja on Tuesday, said the exercise was necessary to align the party’s rules with current realities and the expectations of members.
He, however, noted that rules alone cannot sustain a political party, saying, “No constitution, no matter how well crafted, can substitute for discipline, loyalty, and commitment of members. The strength of any political party lies not only in its rules but in the willingness of its members to abide by them.
"At this critical juncture in our national life, Nigerians are looking up to credible alternatives, parties that are organized, principled, and people-oriented.
"The ADC must continue to position itself as that viable platform. A strong, clear, and forward-looking constitution is central to achieving this objective".
Emphasising the significance of the exercise, Mark said the constitutional review was not routine but a careful process that demands wisdom, inclusiveness and foresight.
"Our party’s constitution is not just a document; it is the soul of our collective aspirations. It defines who we are, what we stand for, and how we organize ourselves to serve the Nigerian people," he said.
Mark, who was represented by the party’s National Legal Adviser, Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor, also noted that the report provides guidance on ensuring fairness and equity in party operations.
He highlighted the inclusive approach of the exercise, acknowledging that consultations were conducted across states, zones, and with critical stakeholders.
“This reinforces our belief that the ADC belongs to all its members, irrespective of status or position," he noted while calling on members to remain united and focused.
While presenting the document, the committee chairman, Etigwe Uwa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), said the panel took into account ideology, technology and innovation, and carried out extensive consultations before finalising a constitution intended to address longstanding challenges within Nigeria’s political party system.
Uwa said the proposed reforms emphasise national unity, justice, inclusivity and prosperity, with the motto “A United and Flourishing Nigeria,” adding that the report provides a framework for modernisation, efficiency and stronger internal democracy within the ADC.
According to him, membership rules now reflect digital registration requirements, and a National Technology Secretary is proposed to oversee technological integration.
Affirmative action measures recommend minimum representation of 30 percent for women, 20 percent for youth, and recognition of persons with disabilities, he said.
He also noted that grassroots structures have been strengthened, including polling unit executives and hybrid meetings to ensure participation across distances.
Disciplinary and reconciliation procedures, according to him, have been overhauled, with state and national committees handling grievances and formal arbitration mechanisms to resolve disputes before escalation.
The committee stressed the importance of technological adaptation in party management, stating, “Any party that does not pay attention to the issue of disruptions will be next in line. That is one of the reasons why this Office of the National Technology Secretary has been established".
Leadership offices have also been streamlined, with transitional provisions included to manage changes from the previous constitution, Uwa added.
Mark assured that the National Working Committee will carefully study the recommendations of the committee with utmost seriousness.
"We shall ensure that every proposal is examined in line with our core values of fairness, justice, and equity, and in the best interest of the party and our dear nation," he assured.
