Introduction to the ADC Constitution Review Committee
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has appointed a 21-member Constitution Review Committee to review its constitution with the aim of ensuring inclusivity and alignment with global best practices. The committee, which includes notable members such as former Imo State Governor Hon Emeka Ihedioha, Senator Enynnaya Abaribe, and Senator Ehigie Uzamere, was inaugurated by the National Chairman of the ADC, Senator David Mark, in Abuja.
The Importance of the Constitution Review
According to Senator Mark, a party’s constitution is its moral compass and legal backbone, defining its ideology, guiding its conduct, regulating internal processes, and safeguarding internal democracy. The review of the constitution is necessary to ensure that it reflects present realities, anticipates future challenges, and aligns with global best practices in democratic party administration. The exercise is not about changing principles, but about strengthening them, ensuring clarity, fairness, inclusiveness, and accountability in the party’s structures and processes.
Terms of Reference for the Committee
The committee has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive review of the existing ADC Constitution and identifying areas requiring amendment, clarification, or updating. The committee is expected to ensure that the revised constitution aligns with global best practices in democratic governance, party administration, and internal democracy. Specifically, the committee is to:
- Strengthen provisions that promote inclusiveness, transparency, equity, and fair participation of all members, including women, youths, and persons with disabilities
- Review the roles, powers, and relationships of party organs at all levels to enhance efficiency, accountability, and coordination
- Review provisions relating to party primaries, congresses, dispute resolution, discipline, and sanctions to ensure fairness and credibility
- Examine provisions on membership registration, rights and obligations of members, and party administration for clarity and effectiveness
- Ensure full compliance of the ADC Constitution with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and relevant electoral laws and regulations
- Consult widely with party stakeholders across all levels and geopolitical zones in the course of the review
Committee Membership and Timeline
The committee, which is chaired by Etigwe Uwa SAN, includes 20 other members with diverse backgrounds and expertise. The committee is expected to submit an interim report and proposed amendments to the National Working Committee within 30 days. Senator Mark emphasized the importance of women and youth participation in the review process and encouraged the committee to co-opt any member of ADC who can add value to the work of the committee.
Acceptance Speech by the Committee Chairman
In his acceptance speech, Etigwe Uwa SAN promised a tidy and acceptable constitution that will distinguish the ADC. He emphasized that the review is not because the current constitution is not good, but to make it much better. He assured that the committee will pay attention to the kind of things fair-minded Nigerians and good citizens would like to see in a party constitution and will try to ensure that the output is one which has the magnetic force to draw more members into the party.
Conclusion
The inauguration of the ADC Constitution Review Committee marks a significant milestone in the party’s continuous growth and institutional strengthening. The committee’s work is crucial in ensuring that the party’s constitution is inclusive, transparent, and aligned with global best practices. The outcome of the review is expected to strengthen the party’s internal democracy, enhance discipline, and guarantee transparency in party affairs.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of the ADC Constitution Review Committee?
The purpose of the committee is to review the party’s constitution to ensure it is inclusive, transparent, and aligned with global best practices. - Who are the members of the committee?
The committee includes 21 members, including Etigwe Uwa SAN, Hon Emeka Ihedioha, Senator Enynnaya Abaribe, and Senator Ehigie Uzamere. - What is the timeline for the committee’s work?
The committee is expected to submit an interim report and proposed amendments to the National Working Committee within 30 days. - What are the key areas of focus for the committee?
The committee will focus on strengthening provisions that promote inclusiveness, transparency, equity, and fair participation of all members, reviewing party primaries and congresses, and ensuring compliance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and relevant electoral laws and regulations.
