Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday led the All Progressives Congress (APC) South-west Zonal Public Hearing on constitutional amendments, calling for inclusive reforms, stronger internal democracy and merit-based leadership as the party reviews its guiding framework.
Speaking at the Government House Banquet Hall, Akure, venue of the hearing, Aiyedatiwa described the session as a landmark democratic exercise rather than a routine party meeting, noting that it reflected the APC’s maturity and reformist resolve.
He said political parties endure not merely by winning elections but by building strong internal institutions anchored on clear rules and credible processes.
According to the governor, the party’s constitution goes beyond procedure, serving as its ethical compass and the lens through which power is exercised and restrained.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Executive Committee for setting up the APC Constitution Amendment Committee to review the 2022 constitution, describing the move as statesmanlike and forward-looking.
Aiyedatiwa stressed that internal democracy was non-negotiable for the APC, praising the consultative process that brought together legislators, party administrators, civil society groups, women and youth organisations, persons living with disabilities and grassroots members. “A constitution that excludes voices ultimately weakens the institution it seeks to guide,” he said.
He also highlighted the symbolic importance of hosting the South-west hearing in Akure, describing the zone as the intellectual hub of progressive politics in Nigeria.
Urging delegates to rise above narrow interests, the governor said deliberations must be guided by equity, justice, transparency and the overriding goal of party unity.
“The APC of the future must be a party where rules are clear, participation is guaranteed and leadership emerges through merit, service and integrity,” he added.
In his remarks, Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Femi Hamzat, described the South-west as a historic bastion of progressive ideas, urging delegates to see constitutional reforms as a means of strengthening internal cohesion, accountability and equitable representation across gender and age groups.
Earlier, the Ondo State APC caretaker chairman, Engr Ade Adetimehin, welcomed delegates and highlighted the party’s growing membership, expressing confidence that the state would deliver an even stronger electoral performance in 2027.
Delivering the keynote address, a member of the Constitution Amendment Committee, Miriam Odinaka Onuoha, said the committee was inaugurated in February 2025 to align the party’s constitution with its expanding membership and evolving political landscape. She emphasised inclusivity and affirmative action, noting that loyalty and service to the party should be recognised and rewarded.
In his vote of thanks, APC National Vice-Chairman (South-west), Dr Isaac Kekemeke, urged members to intensify participation in the ongoing electronic registration exercise.
He also called for the harmonisation of multiple versions of the APC constitution, warning that discrepancies could create confusion within the party’s national leadership.
The hearing was attended by the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; members of the State Executive Council; lawmakers and other party stakeholders across the South-west.
