The National coordinator of the One ADC movement, Mrs Lauretta Onochie has shed light on ADC’s Collegiate System of Governance and Its Promise for Nigeria to ensure that it is well understood. 

She stated that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is advancing a bold and transformative vision for leadership in Nigeria—one that prioritizes collaboration over concentration of power. At the heart of this vision is the Collegiate System of Governance, a model designed to redefine how political leadership operates within the party and, ultimately, across the nation.

Traditionally, political systems in Nigeria have centered on a single individual who assumes control after winning an election. ADC proposes a departure from this approach as the collegiate system is set to ensure that leadership becomes a shared responsibility—much like a team working together toward a common goal.

According to Mrs Lauretta Onochie, this model can be likened to a group project in a classroom: instead of one student making all the decisions, a group of capable individuals collaborates, bringing diverse perspectives and strengths to the table. The result is more balanced, inclusive, and effective governance.

She explained that the Key Principles of the Collegiate System are:

1. Shared Leadership

The ADC envisions a structure where no single individual holds absolute authority. Leadership will be distributed among a team, ensuring that decisions are made collectively. This approach reduces the risks associated with excessive concentration of power and promotes accountability at all levels.

2. Unity Beyond Elections

One of the most persistent challenges in politics is division following elections. ADC’s collegiate system is set to address this by encouraging inclusiveness—even for those who do not emerge as winners. Rather than fostering rivalry, the system will integrate diverse voices into governance, strengthening unity and minimizing internal conflicts.

3. Rule-Based Governance

ADC emphasizes the supremacy of rules within the party. These rules are designed to apply equally to all members, including those in leadership positions. By institutionalizing discipline and fairness, the party aims to build a culture where no one is above the law.

4. People-Centered Focus

At its core, the collegiate system is about improving the lives of Nigerians. Leadership, in this context, is not about authority but about service—addressing citizens’ needs, ensuring security, and fostering national development.

Therefore, ADC’s collegiate system seeks to establish a model of collective political leadership that serves all Nigerians, regardless of tribe, religion, or political affiliation. It represents an effort to build a more inclusive and participatory democracy—one where governance is driven by cooperation rather than competition.

Mrs Lauretta Onochie further stated that this proposal emerges amid growing concerns about the concentration of power in Nigeria’s current political landscape under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, adding that ADC positions its collegiate system as an alternative—one that emphasizes shared responsibility, institutional strength, and democratic accountability.

In essence, ADC is advocating for a system where leadership is a collective effort—designed to strengthen unity, enhance governance, and deliver better outcomes for Nigerians.