Why African Democratic Congress Is Reviewing Its Constitution – Mark

National chairman of African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has said the party’s decision to review its constitution is to enhance inclusiveness, transparency and discipline.

He added that the exercise will also strengthen provisions on party structures, internal elections, dispute resolution and sanctions.

The former Senate president stated this at the inauguration of the party’s Constitution Review Committee at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.

Speaking at the inauguration in Abuja yesterday, Mark described the exercise as a critical milestone in the institutional development of the ADC.

Mark said a party’s constitution serves as its “moral compass and legal backbone,” noting that the review was necessary to ensure the document reflects present realities, anticipates future challenges and guarantees clarity, fairness and accountability in party affairs.

“This exercise is not about changing principles; it is about strengthening them,” the former Senate President said.

“It is about creating a framework that empowers our members, promotes unity, resolves disputes fairly and positions the ADC as a credible alternative for national leadership.”

He charged members of the committee to approach the assignment with integrity, broad consultations and commitment to the collective interest of the party, stressing the need to listen to party members at all levels and respect the ADC’s founding values.

According to him, the review process is expected to enhance inclusiveness, transparency and discipline, while also strengthening provisions on party structures, internal elections, dispute resolution and sanctions.

Under its terms of reference, the committee is mandated to conduct a comprehensive review of the existing ADC constitution, align it with democratic best practices, promote the participation of women, youths and persons with disabilities, and ensure compliance with Nigeria’s constitution and electoral laws.

The committee is also expected to consult widely with party stakeholders across the geopolitical zones and submit an interim report with proposed amendments to the National Working Committee within 30 days. Members are equally empowered to co-opt other party members who can add value to the exercise.

Mark formally inaugurated the committee on behalf of the National Working Committee and the entire ADC family, urging members to discharge their duties with diligence, patriotism and wisdom.

Members of the Constitution Review Committee include Etigwe Uwa, SAN; Barrister Peter Iyeola Oyewole; Hon. C.I.D. Maduabum; Hon. Ishaka Bawa; Senator Ehigie Uzamere; Mrs. Sally Oguni-Agbo (PhD); Barrister Aishatu Dan-Kani; Prof. Lawal Salihu; former Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha; Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe; Hon. Mohammed Kumaila.

Others are Barrister Suleiman Usman (SAN); Bar Zawo Osu; retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police Ibrahim Adamu; Dr. Rasaq Oyelami Saliu; Senator E.Y. Orker-Jev; Senator Idris Abdullahi Umar; ADC National Chairman, Chief Ralph Nwosu; Barrister Amanda Pam; Prof. Mohammed Sani Bello; Dr. Paul Angya; and Rukayya Lamido Dodo.

The party leadership expressed optimism that the outcome of the review would lay a stronger foundation for the future of the ADC as it prepares for greater national responsibilities.