The leadership of Nigeria’s governing party, the All Progressives Congress, APC, has served a notice of proposed amendments to the Party’s Constitution on members of the party ahead of its National Convention scheduled for February 26.
It is in accordance with Article 30 (iii) of the APC Constitution, which stipulates that the notice is served at least fourteen (14) days before the date of the National Convention at which the proposed amendments are to be considered.
APC Constitution 2014 has been in effect for almost eight years. Together with judgments from Courts of competent jurisdiction, administrative experiences have revealed flaws in the Constitution, which have made it imperative to review the Party’s Constitution.
In a press statement by the APC’s Caretaker Secretary, Senator John Akpanudoedehe, the Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee established a Constitution Review Committee under the chairmanship of Prof. Tahir Mamman SAN, to thoroughly review the Constitution under Article 30 which provides for Constitutional amendments.
“The Committee adopted an all-inclusive approach which led to the draft proposals.
“Broadly, the amendment proposals address:
“Clarify ambiguities in the Constitution.
“Fill gaps that became apparent.
“Recognize and expand platforms for the participation of critical groups such as women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
“Replace the Board of Trustees (BoT) under a new National Advisory Council title with streamlined memberships and clear powers and functions.
“Create zonal congresses.
“Clarify powers of National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Working Committee (NWC).
“Clearer accountability by organs of the party.
“New organs for the efficient administration of the party.
“Fair distribution of income between national and sub-national organs.
“Clarify disciplinary procedures and powers etc.,” the statement reads.
Editor/Suzan O.
