PMAN Leaders and Registrar of Trade Unions Meet in Abuja to Resolve Internal Dispute, Strengthen Union’s Future
Abuja, Nigeria – October 25, 2024
In a significant step toward resolving internal conflicts and promoting unity, the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN) held a key meeting with the Registrar of Trade Unions, Mr. Folonipe Amos, on October 22, 2024, at the Registrar’s office in Abuja. The meeting, which began at 11:46 am, aimed to address leadership disagreements within PMAN and outline a sustainable path for the union’s growth.
Opening the meeting, Mr. Amos welcomed attendees and highlighted the importance of amicable conflict resolution, noting his long-standing engagement with PMAN. He expressed disappointment over the absence of some key individuals, including suspended National Working Committee (NWC) members Sunny Neji, Zaaki Azzey, Steven Michael Ugochukwu (Ruggedman), former PMAN General Secretary Mr. Boniface Itodo, and other aggrieved parties. Emphasizing that the union’s constitution would guide decisions, Mr. Amos called for adherence to PMAN’s foundational rules to ensure accountability and fair governance.
PMAN President Mr. Pretty Okafor provided a comprehensive update on the union’s progress, detailing his continued commitment to PMAN’s projects, such as the PMAN House, PMAN Radio Station, and development of PMAN’s land in Abuja. He shared that he personally acquired radio equipment and secured international partnerships to advance the union’s interests. These efforts, he noted, faced opposition from some NWC members, creating tensions that escalated into an attempt to unseat him while he was on official duties abroad.
The Registrar clarified the governance structure within PMAN, reiterating that the NWC is accountable to the National Executive Council (NEC), PMAN’s second-highest decision-making body, which holds the power to overturn NWC decisions. He encouraged all parties to operate within PMAN’s constitution and stressed that disputes should be addressed under the Trade Union Dispute Act.
NEC members present at the meeting voiced concerns about the need for inclusive decision-making, especially around NWC member allocations, with several attendees calling for better support for PMAN’s state chapters. The NEC unanimously expressed confidence in Mr. Okafor’s leadership, presenting him with a formal letter of commendation, recognizing his commitment to steering PMAN through challenging times.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Okafor thanked the Registrar, union members, and stakeholders for their ongoing support. He reaffirmed his dedication to uniting PMAN and announced plans to establish local secretariats for PMAN state chapters, promoting greater collaboration and resources for all members.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with renewed commitments from all parties to adhere to PMAN’s constitution and work together to advance the union’s goals, ensuring a prosperous future for Nigerian musicians both nationally and internationally.
Comments
Post a Comment