Table of Contents
- Memoranda Submitted
- Session Hosted
- Stakeholder Participation
- Chairman Comments
- Next Sessions
- Importance of the Constitution
- Safeguarding Individual Liberties
On Tuesday, 100 memoranda were submitted in Calabar during the first public hearing on the amendment of the All Progressives Congress (APC) national constitution, attended by key stakeholders from the South-South zone.
This session, held in Cross River State, attracted representatives from APC governors, state chairpersons, and legal advisors from all five South-South states, excluding Rivers, which has not yet been fully integrated into the ruling party’s structure.
Various non-executive stakeholders and dedicated party supporters also took part, advocating for reforms aimed at enhancing internal democracy and promoting inclusivity within the APC.
The Chairman of the Cross River State APC, Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba, who chaired the hearing and represents the zone on the constitution amendment committee, stated that President Bola Tinubu had directed the review to accommodate the party’s growing membership.
Eba mentioned that similar zonal hearings will take place nationwide, with the next session planned for Katsina in the North-West region.
“President Tinubu has called for this review to create more opportunities for women, youth, and individuals with disabilities,” he noted.
“The goal is to develop a constitution that will effectively serve the party for many years to come.”
He pointed out that 10 of the 100 memoranda came from Cross River State and will be consolidated with contributions from other geopolitical zones before a final draft is submitted to the national leadership.
APC National Vice Chairman for the South-South, Chief Victor Giadom, referred to the constitution as the “foundation of the party’s internal democracy,” emphasizing that it outlines the rights, powers, and limitations of both members and leaders.
“It is not merely a framework,” he asserted, “but a living testament to our shared values, justice, and commitment to the rule of law.”
Representing Governor Bassey Otu at the event, Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, stated that this exercise is vital for protecting individual freedoms and reinforcing the APC’s democratic principles.
“To build a robust APC that will last for the next 50 years and beyond,” Ayambem remarked, “members must consistently contribute meaningfully to its constitution and development.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the public hearing held in Calabar?
The public hearing aimed to gather memoranda for the amendment of the APC national constitution, focusing on enhancing internal democracy and inclusivity within the party.
Who presided over the public hearing?
Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba, the Chairman of the Cross River State APC, presided over the hearing.
What did President Bola Tinubu emphasize regarding the constitutional review?
President Bola Tinubu emphasized the need for the constitutional review to accommodate the expanding membership of the APC, particularly focusing on representation for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
