The All Progressives Congress (APC) has kicked off a public hearing in Enugu, South East Nigeria, as part of efforts to amend its constitution and increase women’s representation in party politics.
The hearing, which took place on Friday, is expected to gather input from stakeholders on proposed amendments to the party’s constitution.
According to Princess Miriam Onuoha, Chairman of the South East Constitution review Committee, the APC has planned to reserved 11 slots for women in party politics, while aiming to promote gender inclusivity and diversity.
“The party also plans to expand its structure to accommodate more members, allowing new entrants to vie for positions without undue delays,” she stated.
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, who served as the chief host of the event, emphasized “the importance of inclusivity and representation in the party’s constitution.”
Represented by the Secretary to the state government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the Governor urged participants to contribute to shaping a stronger, more democratic party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The APC’s constitution amendment process involves zonal hearings across the country, with the South East public hearing being held in Enugu
“Similar hearings have taken place in other regions, including the South-South zone, where about 100 memoranda were submitted for consideration,”the Governor stated.
Prof. Chidiebere Onyia highlighted the significance of the event in strengthening the party’s institutional foundations.
The SSG acknowledged the Chairman of the APC Constitution Amendment Committee, Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, for his leadership and dedication to the process.
The public hearing aimed to gather input from stakeholders on proposed amendments to the APC Constitution, focusing on issues like zoning, representation, membership growth, transparency, and youth and women integration into leadership structures.
Participants were encouraged to make thoughtful contributions, promoting gender inclusiveness, youth representation, and financial accountability.
The APC’s constitution amendment process involves public hearings across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, demonstrating the party’s commitment to democratic reforms and broad-based participation.
The outcome is expected to shape the party’s future, enhance its competitiveness, and contribute to Nigeria’s democratic development.
Meanwhile, the party’s Deputy National Chairman South, Emma Eneukwu, described the constitution review as the “cornerstone of internal democracy” and emphasized the need for inclusivity and representation.
He stated that “the amended Constitution would serve the party effectively for many years to come.”
The APC’s efforts to amend its Constitution are part of its broader plan to deepen internal democracy, enhance accountability, and reposition itself as a more inclusive political platform.
The party aims to rule for many years to come and is working to achieve this goal through constitutional reforms.
The public hearing in Enugu was attended by government officials, traditional rulers, NGOs, and civil society organizations.
Participants discussed various issues, including the need for a rotational presidency, legislative seats for women, and greater autonomy for local governments.
The party’s National Vice-Chairman, Victor Giadom, emphasised that “the amendment is necessary to fill existing gaps and ensure a more functional and transparent framework.”
Some of the proposed amendments include;
- Increased Representation: Creating permanent roles for former governors, Senate Presidents, Speakers, and National Chairmen in the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
- Women’s Empowerment: Strengthening representation for women, youth, and people with disabilities.
- Internal Democracy: Revising articles to create additional seats for under-represented groups and establishing an internal dispute resolution mechanism.
- Party Expansion: Allowing new members to participate in party activities without a lengthy waiting period.