Senator David Mark unveils groundbreaking ADC constitution reforms to strengthen party unity across Nigeria

In a significant move toward internal reform, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) took a major step forward this week.

The party’s Constitution Review Committee, led by Etigwe Uwa SAN, submitted its comprehensive report on Tuesday at the ADC office in Wuse, Abuja.

The report was received on behalf of the party by its National Legal Adviser, Professor Oserheimen Osunbor, representing Senator David Mark, the ADC National Chairman.

This milestone reflects the party’s determination to strengthen its foundation and emerge as a disciplined, united, and forward-looking political force in Nigeria.

A Rigorous and Inclusive Review Process

The 22-member Constitution Review Committee was inaugurated on January 8 and given a clear mandate: to review and update the party’s constitution to align with global best practices, improve internal democracy, enhance dispute resolution, and promote transparency.

Senator Mark emphasized that the constitution is “the soul” of the party.

It defines its identity, values, and service to Nigerians.

Suggested Readings (News continues below)

Minister Adebayo Adelabu Apologizes to Nigerians Over Widespread Power Outages Amid Dry Season Heat Across Abuja

Defendant Collapses Halting Yelwata Killings Trial in Benue State Courtroom

BitGo and Susquehanna unlock institutional access to OTC crypto prediction markets in the United States

Tottenham Hotspur Faces Relegation as Igor Tudor Struggles to Rescue Club in Premier League Crisis

According to him, updating it requires foresight, inclusiveness, and attention to the realities of modern political life.

He noted that the review process involved extensive consultations across states, zones, and critical stakeholders, demonstrating the party’s commitment to collective ownership.

Key Recommendations from the Committee

While presenting the report, Committee Chairman Etigwe Uwa highlighted several transformative proposals.

• Preamble and Party Motto: A new preamble underscores a shared history, national unity, and a vision for a prosperous, just, and inclusive Nigeria. The party motto is streamlined to “A united and flourishing Nigeria,” addressing disunity as a major national challenge.
• Digital Membership and Technology Integration: Membership provisions now allow digital registration. The committee proposed the creation of an Office of the National Technology Secretary to navigate technological evolution, including electronic voting, data-driven polling, and hybrid meetings.
• Affirmative Action and Inclusion: The report recommends 30% representation for women, 20% for youths, and inclusion measures for persons living with disabilities.
• Strengthened Grassroots Engagement: Polling unit executives and local structures are reinforced to ensure community-level participation.
• Disciplinary and Reconciliation Framework: Ward- and local-level disciplinary actions are replaced with State Disciplinary and Reconciliation Committees, providing structured grievance resolution and appeals mechanisms up to the NEC.
• Virtual and Hybrid Meeting Provisions: To address geographical spread and operational costs, the constitution now allows hybrid meetings for efficiency and broader engagement.

Impact and Consequences

The proposed reforms are more than procedural tweaks—they could reshape the ADC’s identity and influence in Nigeria’s political landscape.

• Internal Cohesion: By standardizing dispute resolution and enhancing disciplinary fairness, the party reduces risks of internal fragmentation.
• Modernization: Digital membership and technology-focused strategies position the ADC to compete effectively in an increasingly digital political environment.
• Inclusivity: Affirmative action measures expand participation for women, youths, and persons living with disabilities, broadening the party’s appeal.
• Grassroots Strengthening: Reinforced local structures improve community engagement, which is critical for electoral competitiveness.

What’s Next?

Senator Mark assured party members that the National Working Committee (NWC) will carefully study all recommendations.

Each proposal will be weighed against core values of fairness, justice, and equity.

Implementation will require coordinated efforts, member discipline, and collective commitment.

The ADC is expected to launch a phased adoption of reforms, including operationalizing the Office of the National Technology Secretary, implementing digital registration, and rolling out new disciplinary and reconciliation mechanisms.

Summary

The ADC’s constitutional review marks a significant effort to modernize the party, strengthen internal democracy, and increase inclusivity.

With wide consultation and forward-thinking reforms, the party aims to position itself as a credible, principled alternative for Nigerians seeking responsive political representation.

Bulleted Takeaways

• ADC Constitution Review Committee submitted its report to National Chairman Senator David Mark
• Committee was inaugurated on January 8 with 22 members
• Constitution reforms emphasize inclusivity, transparency, and internal democracy
• New preamble and party motto reflect unity and prosperity for Nigeria
• Digital membership and technology integration proposed, including hybrid meetings
• Affirmative action: 30% for women, 20% for youth, inclusion of persons with disabilities
• Disciplinary procedures revamped with state-level committees and structured appeals
• Grassroots engagement strengthened through polling unit executives
• Reforms aim to modernize, unify, and strengthen the party for future elections