From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
In the run-up to the 2027 general election, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Youth Wing has insisted on 35 percent affirmative action for youth and women in elective positions as enshrined in the opposition party’s constitution.
THE ADC National Youth Leader, Comrade Balarabe Rufai, while speaking at the ADC Youths Champion and Prospective Legislative Summit, organized by his office, charged the leadership of the opposition party to walk the talk on youth and women inclusion in elective offices.
Rufai explained that ahead of electioneering for the 2027 polls, the ADC Youth wing will set up three committees to ensure strategic coordination of the youth in the party. According to him, the committees include Youth Aspirants Screening Committee, Youth Opinion Poll Committee and Youth leaders Advisory Committee on Independent National Electoral Committee (INEC) and Litigations.
He stated “As we approach our party primaries, let it be stated without hesitation or ambiguity, The Constitution of the African Democratic Congress has already settled the question of inclusion and its provisions are sacrosanct and non negotiable.
“The Youth Constituency is not begging for space. We are asserting our constitutional rights. By the binding authority of our party constitution: Twelve Governorship tickets are reserved for the Youth Constituency. At least one Senate ticket in every state belongs to the youth. 10-15 State Houses of Assembly slots per state are designated for young people. These are not promises, they are not political conveniences, they are enforceable commitments.”
Furthermore, Rufai added “Assert your place because when the youth take their rightful position, the party becomes stronger. And when the youth lead, victory becomes inevitable. It is on this basis that we must empower those who are ready to lead, regardless of age, but with full recognition that the youth are prepared, qualified, and determined.
“To further institutionalize transparency, credibility, and strategic coordination within the ranks of the party, the Youth Wing will immediately establish three critical structures, Youth Aspirants Screening Committee, to ensure only credible, competent, and prepared youth candidates emerge. Youth Opinion Poll Committee, to scientifically gauge grassroots support and guide strategic decisions. Youth Leaders Advisory Committee on INEC and Litigations, to strengthen compliance, electoral preparedness, and the legal defence of our mandates, the Youth Leaders Advisory Committee on INEC and Litigations will work in close collaboration with party leadership.
“As institutional independence erodes, we will confront impunity, uphold justice, and reinforce credible opposition, because no democracy survives without a vigilant, principled opposition.”
