Maroc - MOCKINBIRD.COM.NG - A La Une - 26/Aug 11:22

Pretty Okafor’s Dramatic Return to Nigeria Sets Stage for High-Stakes PMAN Hearing!

  August 26, 2024 – The Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) is facing a pivotal moment as its President, Mr. Pretty Okafor, has returned to Nigeria to confront the allegations leading to his suspension. The National Executive Council (NEC) of PMAN convened an emergency meeting to deliberate on the suspension imposed by the National Working Committee (NWC) and to address Mr. Okafor's appeal against this decision.During the meeting, the NEC carefully reviewed the situation and the PMAN Constitution, issuing several key resolutions aimed at ensuring fairness, transparency, and due process within the association.Key Resolutions Announced by the NEC:Suspension Status Quo: The NEC directed the National Working Committee (NWC) to maintain the current status quo regarding the suspension of Mr. Pretty Okafor and the Chapter Governors/Sole Administrators. No further actions are to be taken until a full hearing is conducted in line with the PMAN Constitution, ensuring fairness and adherence to due process.Formation of a National Disciplinary Committee (NDC): In accordance with Article 13 (C) (ii) of the PMAN Constitution, the NEC has resolved to establish a National Disciplinary Committee (NDC) to investigate allegations of misconduct and breaches of the Constitution against Mr. Okafor and the Chapter Governors/Sole Administrators. The NDC will be led by Comrade Chuku Uchena James (Ebonyi State) and includes the following members:Comrade Aralola Olamuyiwa (Lagos State)Comrade Jack Sydney Asuwani (Abuja FCT)Comrade Lady Golda C Njiribeako Alexander (Imo State)Comrade Robert Udende (Benue State)Powers and Responsibilities of the NDC: The NEC emphasized that the NDC has the authority to summon any member of PMAN to appear before it concerning allegations of misconduct. The NDC will review relevant documents, interview involved parties, and observe the rules of natural justice to ensure a fair and impartial review process.Commitment to Procedural Integrity: The NEC reaffirmed that any suspension, including that of the President, must be based on a finding of guilt by a duly appointed Disciplinary Committee, as stipulated in Article 18 (A) of the PMAN Constitution. The NEC noted that no such committee had been appointed before Mr. Okafor's suspension, rendering the action procedurally improper.Ensuring Due Process: The NEC reiterated its commitment to upholding due process, as required by Article 18 (D) of the PMAN Constitution, which guarantees members a reasonable opportunity to be heard before any disciplinary action is taken.Call for Okafor’s Defense: The NEC instructed Mr. Pretty Okafor to return to Nigeria and appear before the NDC to provide a comprehensive defense against the allegations. Mr. Okafor, now back in Nigeria, expressed confidence in his ability to clear his name and claimed victory over those he described as conspirators attempting to undermine his leadership. The NDC will ensure Mr. Okafor is given the opportunity to present all relevant evidence and clarify his actions to the committee.Transparency and Unity Within PMAN: The NEC resolved to maintain transparency and unity within PMAN and will actively oversee significant matters to prevent any lapses in communication or decision-making that could harm the association's reputation.Immediate Press Release Directive: To mitigate any further damage to PMAN’s public image, the NEC instructed the NWC to issue a press release immediately across all platforms and media channels initially used to announce the suspension of Mr. Pretty Okafor and the affected Chapter Governors/Sole Administrators.Call for Calm and Unity Among Members: While acknowledging the NWC's efforts to safeguard the association’s integrity, the NEC stressed that all decisions must be made in full compliance with due process and fairness. The NEC called on all members to remain calm and united as the association works through these challenging times.The NEC's emergency meeting highlighted its commitment to fairness, transparency, and adherence to PMAN's constitutional principles. The association is now focused on ensuring a just resolution to the ongoing situation, with all parties being given the opportunity to present their cases in an open and impartial forum.