ADC reviews constitution to imbibe internal democracy, tackle indiscipline

The Coalition African Democratic Congress (ADC) has inaugurated a 22-member Constitution Review Committee to tackle internal democracy, discipline and align the party on a “strong democratic values, internal cohesion, and effective governance.”

Addressing members of the National Working Committee (NWC) and members of the party at the party headquarters in Abuja, National Chairman, Senator David Mark, said the constitution will be a moral compass that will define the ideology, “guides our conduct, regulates our internal processes, and safeguards internal democracy.”

Among members of the committee, are the Chairman, Etigwe Uwa, SAN, Barr Aishatu Dan – Kani, Prof. Lawal Salihu, H.E. Emeka Ihedioha, Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe, Sen. E.Y. Orker-Jev, Sen. Idris Abdullahi Umar and Chief Ralph Nwosu.

Others are Barr Peter Iyeola Oyewole, Hon. C.I.D Maduabum, Hon. Ishaka Wala, Sen. Ehigie Uzamere, Mrs. Sally Oguni-Agbo, Hon. Mohammed Kumaila, Barr Suleiman Usman (SAN), Bar Zawo Osu, D.I.G Ibrahim Adamu (RTD), Dr. Rasaq Oyelami Saliu, Barr Amanda Pam, Prof. Mohammed Sani Bello, Dr Paul Angya and Rukayya Lamido Dodo.

According to Mark, as the party continues to expand, it has become imperative to align it with global best practices in democratic party administration, adding that the exercise is “about ensuring clarity, fairness, inclusiveness, and accountability in our structures and processes. 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.”

The former Senate President flanked by other members of the NWC urged members of the committee to “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.”

Among the terms of reference given to the committee includes, but not limited to review of the existing ADC Constitution and identify areas requiring amendment, clarification, or updating.

“To ensure that the revised constitution aligns with global best practices in democratic governance, party administration, and internal democracy. To strengthen provisions that promote inclusiveness, transparency, equity, and fair participation of all members, including women, youths, and persons with disabilities.

“To review the roles, powers, and relationships of party organs at all levels to enhance efficiency, accountability, and coordination.

“To review provisions relating to party primaries, congresses, dispute resolution, discipline, and sanctions to ensure fairness and credibility.

“To ensure full compliance of the ADC Constitution with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and relevant electoral laws and regulations.”

In his acceptance speech, Etigwe Uwa, SAN, the Chairman of the committee said they were all committed to the task and ready to deploy all “our mental and physical resources to ensure that the assignment is successfully executed and we can fashion for the party a constitution which is forward looking with inbuilt dynamics for organic grassroots mobilization; with robust dispute resolution mechanics.”

He said the constitution when completed will shield the party from the crisis which frequently bedevils many political parties, adding that Constitutions are supposed to be broad and contain a fair and democratic means of selection whether it be in respect of party offices at all strata or of flagbearers for elective positions.

He explained that “the review is not because the current constitution is not good, but the purpose of the review is to make the constitution much better.”

Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5 million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25 million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, click here to find out how it works.

Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.