The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has constituted a 22-member Constitution Review Committee aimed at strengthening internal democracy, discipline, and overall party administration.
The committee was formally inaugurated on Thursday at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.
Addressing members at the event, ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark, said the party’s constitution remains fundamental to its growth and direction. He described it as the framework that guides conduct, regulates internal processes, and protects internal democracy.
Mark explained that the decision to review the constitution became necessary as the party continues to expand, stressing the need for ADC’s operations to reflect global democratic standards.
According to him, the exercise is focused on promoting clarity, fairness, inclusiveness, and accountability across the party’s structures and processes.
He noted that the review is intended to build a system that empowers members, fosters unity, resolves disputes equitably, and positions the ADC as a credible alternative for national leadership.
The former Senate President urged committee members to engage party stakeholders at all levels, advising them to listen to members’ views, uphold the party’s founding principles, and deliver a constitution that deepens internal democracy, enforces discipline, and ensures transparency.
The committee is chaired by Etigwe Uwa, SAN, and includes Barrister Aishatu Dan-Kani, Professor Lawal Salihu, former Imo State Governor Emeka Ihedioha, Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe, E.Y. Orker-Jev, Idris Abdullahi Umar, and Chief Ralph Nwosu, among others.
Its mandate includes reviewing the existing ADC constitution, identifying areas requiring amendment or clarification, and ensuring alignment with democratic best practices, electoral laws, and the Nigerian Constitution. The panel will also work to strengthen provisions on inclusiveness, transparency, party primaries, congresses, discipline, and dispute resolution, with special focus on women, youths, and persons with disabilities.
In his acceptance remarks, committee chairman Uwa assured members of their commitment to the task, stating that they would deploy all necessary mental and physical resources to ensure a successful outcome.
He emphasized that the review is meant to enhance—not discard—the current constitution, adding that a stronger document would help prevent internal crises and guarantee fair, transparent, and democratic selection of party leaders and candidates.