APC SET TO AMEND CONSTITUTION, STRENGTHEN WOMEN, YOUTH INCLUSION
The All Progressives Congress has unveiled initiatives to promote inclusivity and diversity within the party by emphasizing and reinforcing representation for women, youth, and individuals with disabilities through a constitutional amendment process.
During the inaugural public hearing on constitutional amendments held on Monday in Calabar, party officials, stakeholders, and supporters were addressed.
The APC National Vice-Chairman (South-South), Victor Giadom, emphasized that the undertaking seeks to collect members’ perspectives, guarantee inclusivity, and modify the constitution to align with the changing demands of the party and the nation.
He remarked, “I extend a warm welcome to you in the historic city of Calabar for the initial public hearing dedicated to the amendment of our esteemed party’s constitution, the All Progressive Congress, APC.
“Our constitution serves as the foundational principles that delineate our collective agreement and regulations guiding the daily operations of our esteemed party. It specifies the powers, rights, and limitations of the party’s members and its leadership. ”
Giadom characterized the APC constitution as paramount to internal democracy and a reflection of shared values and ambitions. He noted that President Bola Tinubu has mandated a comprehensive and inclusive review of the party’s Constitution to address deficiencies, facilitate the growth of the party’s structures, and rectify any existing ambiguities.
“The constitution is not merely a substantial framework; it stands as a dynamic testament to our dedication to justice, fairness, and adherence to the rule of law. At the directive of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, an extensive and inclusive caucus and national equity committee for our esteemed party will initiate the amendment process in August to address gaps and support the expansion of the specified party bodies while rectifying any existing ambiguities.
“As we embark on this significant public hearing, commencing from the South-South region, let us engage in discussions about potential amendments, while keeping in mind the essence of inclusivity and representation. Every voice is significant, and every viewpoint enhances our comprehension of the matters at hand. We must endeavor to ensure that our constitution mirrors the diversity of our magnificent nation. ”
“Collectively, let us reform a constitution that not only caters to our present needs but also motivates our future to champion the principles of justice, tranquility, solidarity, and advancement, which embody our party’s motto and slogan,” Giadom asserted.
Otu, represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, extended a warm welcome to the party’s stakeholders, characterizing the APC as an organization with an open-door policy for all individuals.
He emphasized that the APC is inclusive and called upon the stakeholders to seize the opportunity to make significant contributions toward the development of the party’s framework and functionality.
“The APC is a party devoid of barriers, bridging the gap between the affluent and the underprivileged. Truly, the APC belongs to every one of us. This initiative recognizes that participation is essential for building a robust APC. An APC that will establish a strategic vision to last 50 years and beyond.
“This gathering, this public hearing, represents a prime opportunity because Cross River is positioned to make valuable contributions to the party’s foundation,” Otu emphasized.
In his address, the representative from the South South in the APC Constitutional Amendment Committee, Alphonsus Eba, acknowledged that the committee has been entrusted with the task of comprehensively revising the party’s constitution to enhance inclusivity for women, youth, and individuals with disabilities.
Eba, also the Cross River State APC Chairman, underscored that the constitutional amendments will involve expanding the National Executive Committee to include former governors; bolstering representation for women, youth, and persons with disabilities; and amending articles 12, 18, 19, and 20 to create additional positions for underrepresented demographics.
“We convene here to revise our constitution, rendering it more inclusive and reflective of Nigeria’s diversity. The revised constitution will address our current needs while inspiring our future, upholding justice, tranquility, solidarity, and advancement,” he concluded.
