The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has launched a major internal reform with the inauguration of its Constitution Review Committee, a step the party says is crucial for strengthening internal democracy and positioning itself as a credible national alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The current ADC Constitution, in place since the party’s founding in 2006, has undergone several reviews and contentious amendments, some leading to litigation.
At the inauguration held on Thursday at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, National Chairman Senator David Mark emphasised that the exercise is central to the growth and institutional strengthening of the relatively young party.
The 22-member committee, chaired by Etigwe Uwa, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), includes notable figures such as former Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha, former party National Chairman Chief Ralph Nwosu, former Minority Leader Hon. Mohammed Kumaila, Senators E.Y. Orker Jev and Enyinnaya Abaribe, Professors Lawal Salihu and Mohammed Sani Bello, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Ibrahim Adamu, and former House member Hon. C.I.D. Maduabum, among others.
The committee is tasked with conducting a comprehensive review of the ADC Constitution, identifying areas requiring amendment, clarification, or updating, and ensuring alignment with global best practices in democratic governance and party administration.
Its mandate also covers reviewing party structures, electoral and disciplinary processes, membership administration, and compliance with Nigeria’s constitution and electoral laws. An interim report with proposed amendments is expected to be submitted to the National Working Committee within 30 days.
Senator Mark described the review as a demonstration of the party’s commitment to democratic values, internal cohesion, and effective governance, stressing that the constitution remains the party’s foundational guide, safeguarding internal democracy.
He noted that as the party expands, the constitution must reflect current realities, anticipate future challenges, and align with best practices in democratic party administration. He emphasised that the exercise is not about changing principles but strengthening them, ensuring clarity, fairness, inclusiveness, and accountability in party structures and processes.
Mark further said the revised constitution should empower members, promote unity, resolve disputes fairly, and position the ADC as a credible alternative for national leadership. He urged the committee to consult widely with party members, respect founding values, and produce a document that enhances internal democracy, discipline, and transparency.
Committee Chairman Etigwe Uwa pledged the members’ readiness to deliver a revised constitution that strengthens internal democracy, accountability, and efficiency. He emphasised that the review aims to improve, not fault, the existing Constitution, producing a practical and widely acceptable framework for the party’s future.
The committee plans to consult stakeholders nationwide to ensure the final document reflects the expectations of members and the wider public.
The review will focus on opening key constitutional provisions, promoting transparency, improving internal governance, and supporting a more inclusive and functional party structure, especially at the grassroots level.
The revised Constitution is expected to be broad and enabling, avoiding excessive detail while providing clear, fair, and transparent processes for selecting party officials and candidates for elective positions, in line with best democratic practices.
