By Nefishetu Yakubu
Abuja, Jan. 7, 2026 – In a decisive move to revitalize its political machinery, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Wednesday inaugurated a high-powered 20-member committee tasked with a nationwide membership revalidation, mobilization, and registration drive. This initiative marks a critical strategic effort to strengthen the party’s internal structures, expand its grassroots base, and enhance its competitiveness ahead of future elections.
The newly formed committee, chaired by prominent figure Kashim Imam with activist Aisha Yesufu as deputy and Dr. Sekonte Davies as secretary, represents a blend of political experience and civic advocacy. Its creation signals the ADC’s intent to move beyond traditional politics and build a more accountable, data-driven organization.
While inaugurating the committee, the National Chairman, Sen. David Mark, framed the exercise as a foundational step for the party’s future. “This is more than an administrative task; it is a major step toward repositioning the ADC for growth, unity, stronger cohesion, and improved electoral competitiveness nationwide,” he stated. He emphasized that the initiative is rooted in the party’s core principles of justice, equity, accountability, and people-centred governance.
Mark elaborated on the critical link between credible membership data and political legitimacy. “In today’s political landscape, verifiable membership data is not just a roster; it is essential to our legitimacy, relevance, and national political success,” he stressed. This focus on data integrity addresses a common weakness in Nigerian political parties, where inflated or ghost membership figures often distort internal democracy and planning.
The committee’s mandate is comprehensive. As explained by the National Chairman, it will oversee:
- Nationwide Revalidation: Verifying existing members to ensure an accurate and active database.
- Fresh Registrations: Actively recruiting new members to broaden the party’s appeal.
- Grassroots Mobilisation: Engaging communities at the ward and local government levels, the bedrock of Nigerian politics.
- Data Harmonisation: Creating a unified, secure digital and manual record system.
- Platform Deployment: Utilizing both electronic and manual methods to ensure transparency, accessibility, and thorough documentation.
A notable innovation in the process is the introduction of new membership cards featuring state-specific security features, a measure aimed at preventing fraud and ensuring the integrity of the party’s membership.
In his acceptance speech, Committee Chairman Kashim Imam pledged diligent and transparent service. He described the 30-day exercise as a “turning point” for the ADC, with the goal of transforming it into an “inclusive, people-driven movement nationwide.” Imam assured that work had begun immediately, with a focus on reaching Nigerians “across cities, rural communities, deserts, and creeks,” highlighting an ambition for truly national penetration.
Context and Strategic Implications:
This revalidation drive is a common yet crucial tactic for political parties, especially those seeking to rebound or assert greater influence. For the ADC, which has positioned itself as a alternative to Nigeria’s dominant parties, a clean, verified, and expanded membership list serves multiple purposes:
- Internal Democracy: It forms the basis for credible primaries and congresses, reducing disputes over candidate selection.
- Bargaining Power: Accurate data strengthens the party’s hand in potential alliances or negotiations, proving its tangible reach.
- Resource Mobilization: A clear member database aids in targeted campaigning, fundraising, and volunteer coordination.
- Legitimacy Narrative: It allows the party to publicly demonstrate organic growth and grassroots support, countering perceptions of being a mere political vehicle.
The success of this committee, therefore, will be a key indicator of the ADC’s organizational capacity and its seriousness about challenging the political status quo. The 30-day timeline sets a brisk pace, suggesting urgency in these preparations.
Edited by Abiemwense Moru
Source: NAN
