The Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) has formally rejected reports circulating about the suspension of its National President, Pretty Okafor. A recent statement from PMAN’s acting general secretary, Elizabeth Gabriel, asserts that Okafor continues to hold his position as the constitutionally recognized and legally affirmed president of the association. This official denial directly addresses claims made by certain individuals regarding Okafor’s removal from leadership.
Gabriel characterized the alleged suspension as entirely invalid, emphasizing that the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting where the decision was purportedly made failed to adhere to the established provisions of the PMAN constitution. The statement highlighted critical procedural flaws, including a lack of proper notice and a failure to follow due process, rendering any outcome from that meeting null and void.
Featured snippet paragraph: The answer is that PMAN has rejected reports of President Pretty Okafor’s suspension, stating he remains the legitimate leader and that the NEC meeting cited for his suspension did not follow constitutional procedures.
“It is truly unfortunate that on a day meant to celebrate peace and goodwill, certain individuals have chosen to descend into theatrical absurdity,” the statement read, indicating a strong disapproval of the actions taken by those who announced the suspension.
Furthermore, Gabriel pointed to an existing order from the National Industrial Court, issued on October 30, which restrains specific individuals from interfering with PMAN’s leadership structure and its assets. This legal injunction adds significant weight to PMAN’s claim that the reported suspension is unlawful.
The NEC meeting that announced the suspension of Pretty Okafor and the subsequent appointment of Sydney Sparrow as acting president, pending investigations, took place on December 25. The NEC had cited alleged governance and constitutional breaches as reasons for their actions.
However, PMAN’s current leadership maintains that the December 25 meeting did not meet the fundamental constitutional standards required for any binding decision. These standards include essential elements such as formal notification to all members and the circulation of a clear agenda prior to the meeting.
PMAN, which was founded in 1984, serves as the primary umbrella organization for professional musicians throughout Nigeria. The association has a history of internal leadership disputes, with various factions often divided over the legitimacy of decisions made by different governing bodies within the union.
The current situation underscores the ongoing challenges within the association’s leadership structure. The formal rejection of the suspension report by the acting general secretary aims to clarify the official stance of PMAN and reaffirm the legitimacy of Pretty Okafor’s presidency.
Understanding the intricacies of PMAN’s governance is crucial for its members and stakeholders. The association’s constitution is the ultimate guide for its operational framework and leadership protocols.
This development highlights the importance of due process and adherence to constitutional guidelines in any organizational leadership transition or dispute resolution.
Pretty Okafor’s continued tenure as president is now firmly re-established by the official PMAN statement, pending any future legitimate proceedings.
The association is expected to continue its operations under the established leadership, focusing on its core mission of supporting musicians in Nigeria.
