 has taken a major step toward the 2027 general elections with the approval of a 50-member){kind=link}
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken a major step toward the 2027 general elections with the approval of a 50-member Wise Men and Women Policy and Manifesto Committee, signalling a renewed push to present itself as a credible national alternative.
The party said the committee’s approval followed internal deliberations by its leadership and was formally endorsed by the National Chairman, Senator David Mark, as part of a broader effort to reposition the ADC around ideas-driven governance.
Unlike routine party panels, the newly constituted body brings together a wide spectrum of Nigerians, including former governors and senators, academics, technocrats, civil society leaders, and security experts, reflecting what the party described as a deliberate blend of experience and innovation.
Chief John Odigie-Oyegun was named chairman of the committee, with renowned political economist Professor Pat Utomi appointed as his deputy, while Salihu Lukman will coordinate the body’s work as secretary.
Explaining the mandate, the ADC said the committee will develop a comprehensive policy framework that speaks directly to Nigeria’s economic pressures, security concerns, governance gaps, and democratic reforms, while offering practical solutions rather than campaign rhetoric.
“This is not about producing another theoretical document,” a senior party official said. “The goal is to craft policies that Nigerians can relate to and measure against real-life challenges.”
According to the party, the committee’s work is expected to position the ADC as a serious platform for national renewal, anchored on competence, integrity, and consensus-building across political and social divides.
The formal inauguration of the committee has been scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026, at the ADC National Secretariat in Abuja, where members are expected to outline their roadmap and working priorities.
Party leaders expressed confidence that the calibre and diversity of the committee members would translate into a manifesto capable of reshaping public debate ahead of the next election cycle.
“The ADC believes Nigeria’s problems demand ideas, not slogans,” another party source noted. “This committee is expected to deliver a manifesto that reflects the real aspirations of Nigerians.”
The party urged its members and stakeholders to support the process, describing the initiative as a defining moment in its quest to offer voters a clear and credible policy-driven choice.
Below are the names of the 50-member committee
John Odigie Oyegun – Chairman
Prof. Pat Utomi – Deputy Chairman
Salihu Lukman – Secretary
Sen. Gershon Bassey – Member
Sen. J.J. Akpan Udo-Udeghe – Member
Amb Abiye Mohammed – Member
H.E. Simon Achuba – Member
Prof. Ibrahim Garba – Member
Bala Usman – Member
Bulus Bello Zaki Piko – Member
Ose Anenih – Member
Dr Nicholas Msheliza – Member
Dr David Olofu – Member
Dr Okey Ezegwu – Member
Dr Mohammed Jibrin Yusufari – Member
Joel Adi Gani – Member
Prof. Jude Njoku – Member
Miss Yemi Adamolekun – Member
Prof. Anthony Kila – Member
Nkovo Toyo – Member
Dr Usman Bugaje – Member
Oseloka Obaze – Member
Dr Otive Igbuzor – Member
Engr. Bello Suleiman – Member
Prof. Chidi Odinkalu – Member
AVM Sadique Abubakar – Member
Madam Jumoke Olawuyi – Member
Prof. Murtala Sagagi – Member
Dr Kerian Wobodo – Member
Dr Fatima Zara Saleh – Member
Prof. Kolapo Eleka – Member
Barr Makber Oson Jacob – Member
Prof. Remi Sonaiya – Member
Moji Ajayi (Mrs) – Member
Prof. Sam Amadi – Member
Dr Babayo Ardo – Member
Pastor Funke Awowolo – Member
Dr Ndubuisi Nwobu – Member
Hon. Aminu Muhammad Gumel – Member
Ngozi Ndukwe – Member
Prof. Doknan Disent Sheni – Member
Prof. Saheed Malik – Member
Dr Sunday Taiwako Anyabuga – Member
Ms Helen Yashin – Member
Dr John Markus Ayuba – Member
Dr Chike Okogwu – Member
Barr. (Mrs) Salametu A. Izuagie – Member
Chief (Mrs) Uwaoma Olevengwa – Member
Alhaja Hafsat Moji Bello – Member
Hon. Sani Yakubu Noma – Member