APC Moves to Amend Constitution, Strengthen Representation for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced plans to enhance inclusivity and diversity within the party by amending its constitution to improve representation for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

The initiative was unveiled on Monday in Calabar, Cross River State, during the party’s first public hearing on constitutional amendments.

Addressing party officials, stakeholders, and supporters, the APC National Vice-Chairman (South-South), Victor Giadom, said the amendment process aims to gather members’ input, ensure inclusivity, and adapt the party’s constitution to evolving political realities.

“Our constitution defines the collective principles that guide our party’s day-to-day operations. It is the cornerstone of internal democracy and the embodiment of our shared values and aspirations,” Giadom said.

He disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had directed an expansive and all-inclusive review of the APC constitution to address gaps, accommodate the expansion of the party’s organs, and strengthen equity across all levels.

“The constitution is not just a legal framework; it is a living testament to our commitment to justice, equity, and the rule of law,” Giadom stated. “As we deliberate, every voice matters. We must ensure that our constitution reflects the diversity of our great country.”

Representing the Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, commended the APC leadership for initiating the review process, describing the party as one that welcomes all Nigerians regardless of background.

“The APC is a party for everyone — no front or back line between the rich and the poor. This exercise gives us the opportunity to build a stronger APC and lay a foundation that will last beyond the next 50 years,” Otu said.

Also speaking, the South-South representative on the APC Constitutional Amendment Committee, Alphonsus Eba, who also serves as APC Chairman in Cross River State, explained that the review would expand the National Executive Committee (NEC) to accommodate former governors and strengthen representation for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

He noted that the proposed amendments would revise Articles 12, 18, 19, and 20 of the party’s constitution to create additional seats for under-represented groups.

“We are here to make our constitution more inclusive and reflective of Nigeria’s diversity. The amended constitution will serve us today and inspire our future by upholding justice, peace, unity, and progress,” Eba stated.

The public hearing marks the beginning of a nationwide consultation process, with similar sessions expected to hold across the remaining geopolitical zones in the coming weeks.