The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, David Mark, on Tuesday received the report of the party’s Constitution Review Committee, promising a stronger, more disciplined and united party.
Mark, represented by the party’s National Legal Adviser, Prof Oserheimen Osunbor, received the report of the Etigwe Uwa (SAN)-led committee at the ADC office in Wuse, Abuja.
The party is reviewing the constitution to enhance women, youth inclusion, technological modernisation, internal democracy and discipline, among others.
Mark formally inaugurated the 22-member committee on January 8, 2026.
The committee’s mandate is to review the party’s constitution to reflect global best practices, strengthen internal democracy, improve dispute resolution mechanisms, and promote greater transparency.
Speaking while receiving the report, Mark described the party’s constitution as the soul of its aspirations, defining its identity, values, and service to Nigerians.
He noted that the task of reviewing the constitution must reflect the realities of time, the expectations of members, and the urgent need to strengthen internal democracy, transparency, and accountability.
“I am particularly encouraged that this review process involved wide consultations across the states, zones, and critical stakeholders of our party. This inclusive approach reinforces our belief that the ADC belongs to all its members, irrespective of status or position.
“As we receive this report today, let me assure you that the National Working Committee will carefully study its recommendations with utmost seriousness.
“We shall ensure that every proposal is examined in line with our core values of fairness, justice, and equity, and in the best interest of the party and our dear nation,” he said.
The national chairman added, “Let me also use this opportunity to remind us that no constitution, no matter how well crafted, can substitute for the discipline, loyalty, and commitment of members.
“The strength of any political party lies not only in its rules but in the willingness of its members to abide by them.
“At this critical juncture in our national life, Nigerians are looking up to credible alternative parties that are organised, principled, and people-oriented.
“The ADC must continue to position itself as that viable platform. A strong, clear, and forward-looking constitution is central to achieving this objective.”
He urged party members to stay united and committed, setting aside personal interests to build a party that reflects Nigerians’ aspirations.
While presenting the report, the committee chairman stated that they tackled key systemic challenges, introducing a preamble that reflects the party’s shared history, sense of nationhood, and vision for a united, prosperous, just, and transparent Nigeria with an inclusive, grassroots-based political structure.
Uwa stated, “The party motto has also been streamlined to: ‘A united and flourishing Nigeria’. This reflects our recognition that disunity remains a major national challenge and that national progress must extend beyond economic growth to all areas of life.
“Membership provisions have been restructured to incorporate digital registration. Recognising that technology evolves faster than regulation, we have proposed that the NWC and NEC be empowered to issue guidelines that bridge the gap between technological advancements and constitutional provisions.
“Nigeria is rapidly digitising. The Electoral Act now requires digital registers, and the trajectory points towards electronic voting, expanded electronic transmission, and increased reliance on data-driven tools such as opinion polling.
“In response, we have proposed the creation of the Office of the National Technology Secretary to drive the party’s technological strategy. Any party that neglects technology risks being outpaced by more agile competitors.
“We have also introduced affirmative action provisions, proposing 30 per cent representation for women and 20 per cent for youths, alongside measures to ensure inclusion of persons living with disabilities.”
He said the grassroots structures had been strengthened, building on existing frameworks such as polling unit executives that are vital for effective engagement at the community level.
Uwa added, “In addition, we have introduced provisions for virtual and hybrid meetings. Given the geographical spread of members and the cost of physical meetings, this approach proved effective during our work and will enhance efficiency going forward.
“A major reform is the streamlining of disciplinary procedures. State Disciplinary and Reconciliation Committees have been established, replacing ward- and local government-level disciplinary actions.
“These committees are designed not only to adjudicate but also to reconcile disputes where possible. Appeals will lie to the National Disciplinary and Reconciliation Committee, with further escalation to the NEC where necessary.”
He added, “This system is intended to eliminate arbitrary disciplinary actions and strengthen internal cohesion. We have also introduced a robust arbitration framework in response to evolving legal constraints on internal party litigation.
“This provides members with structured mechanisms for resolving grievances, reducing the likelihood of defections arising from unresolved disputes. Recognising that we operate in an era of disruption, we have emphasised adaptability.”
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