The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has concluded its national convention in Abuja, where delegates overwhelmingly voted to amend the party’s constitution in a move that reshapes its internal structure and political direction.
Announcing the results, Chairman of the ADC Electoral Sub-Committee and former Governor of Imo State, Emeka Ihedioha, said 1,576 delegates were accredited, with 1,471 voting in favour of the amendments, representing 94 per cent support.
“Distinguished delegates… the constitution of the African Democratic Congress has today been duly amended,” he said.
The convention followed earlier ratification of key resolutions from the party’s National Executive Committee meetings, including suspension of zoning provisions for executive positions and waiver of membership requirements. Delegates also approved the dissolution of the outgoing National Working Committee.
A new leadership structure headed by former Senate President David Mark was ratified, with the party declaring a renewed political direction ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In his closing remarks, Mark described the convention as a milestone and expressed confidence in the party’s prospects.
“Today marks the beginning of our journey to the Villa… by next year, when we move to the Villa, I will remind you again,” he said, referring to the presidency.
The convention also saw disciplinary actions, with the party expelling several members, including factional chairman Nafiu Bala and House of Representatives member Leke Abejide, over alleged anti-party activities.
The motion for their expulsion was moved by Senator Binos Yaroe and seconded by Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki.
Prominent opposition figures used the platform to criticise the federal government and electoral institutions. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar accused the Independent National Electoral Commission of undermining democracy, while alleging irregularities under its leadership.
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi warned that Nigeria’s rising debt profile poses serious economic risks, saying the country is “heading to disaster” despite subsidy removal.
Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi also raised concerns about insecurity, describing conditions in parts of the country as resembling conflict zones.
Meanwhile, former Minister of Interior Rauf Aregbesola strongly criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing its “Renewed Hope” agenda as ineffective and calling for urgent political change.
Despite a court ruling that prevented the Independent National Electoral Commission from monitoring the party’s congresses, the ADC proceeded with its internal elections and national convention, which concluded with sweeping constitutional amendments and renewed political ambitions.
