WHEREAS
We,
the citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with shared political
aspirations, values and vision for bringing about a reordering of the Nigerian
body polity in order to attain the desired status in the comity of nations;
Recognizing
the need to promote and preserve the unity, peace, progress and sovereignty of
the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as rekindle in Nigerians a deep sense
of patriotism with a view to engendering true federalism; Observing the need to
mobilize all credible persons, professionals, youths, women and all Nigerians,
with the fear of God, for the purpose of taking over the control of government
of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, through democratic elections; Believing
that it is the responsibility of Nigerians to ensure the repositioning of our
great country under the fear of God, with total commitment; Building on the
ideology of democratic liberalism, we shall positively impact on mechanized
agriculture to guarantee surplus food production; rural development;
manufacturing industries; energy; mining and Petro-chemical industry; iron and
steel development; transportation with emphasis on rail-realization, airways
and waterways; maintenance engineering, science and technology;
telecommunications and information technology; labour employment and wages with
emphasis on full employment; mass qualitative education; Medicare; housing and
sustainable environment; development of women, youth, sports tourism, art and
culture; sound monetary and fiscal policy; diversified economy; defence and
national security; the police and maintenance of law and order; independent
judiciary; international relations; responsible and responsive bureaucracy;
security of lives and properties; as well as traditional institutions;
Do
hereby solemnly RESOLVE
This
day, to give unto ourselves this Constitution, having duly accepted that in all
our conducts and deliberations, we shall be bound and directed by its
provisions. The provisions of this Constitution shall be supreme to any other
rules or regulations of the Party, which are inconsistent with the provisions,
shall to the extent of such inconsistency be null and void.
This
political Party shall be known, called and addressed as the NEW NIGERIA
PEOPLE'S PARTY (NNPP) hereinafter referred to as "The Party".
The Motto
of the Party shall be PEACE, EQUITY AND PROGRESS
NNPP-
New Nigeria, New Nigeria, Progress
The
emblem of the Party shall be a basket of food flanked by olive branches on the
map of Nigeria, in green, white and blue stripes,
The
registered headquarters of the Party shall be, located in Abuja, the Federal
Capital Territory with offices in every State Capital,' Local Government
Headquarters and Wards.
1.
To uphold and defend the
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
2.
To ensure adequate protection of
lives and properties of every Nigerian
within and outside Nigeria.
3.
The attainment of political power
through legitimate, democratic and Constitutional means for the purpose of
building an egalitarian society predicated on the principles of equity, freedom
and social justice.
4.
To organize branches throughout
the Federation, sponsor Candidates and canvass for votes for their election
into all elective offices in all tiers of government.
5.
To provide the basic necessities
of life, i.e. qualitative mass education, free primary health care, food and water,
housing, road, security, economic empowerment for all Nigerians.
6.
To maintain and promote the
secularism of the Nigerian State. Instill religious tolerance and mutual
harmony among all Nigerians.
7.
To undertake activities and adopt
any measures or policies which shall be
aimed at improving the general condition and well-being of all Nigerians.
8.
To promote active participation
of Nigerians in all sectors of the economy. Upholding and championing the
inalienable rights of man as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human
and Peoples Rights, the African Charter
on Human Rights and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
9.
To promote the unity and
political stability of Nigeria by instituting the principle of power sharing
and rotation of key public offices among the
six geo-political zones of the country.
10. To
foster, ensure and defend freedom of the press and the fundamental freedom and human rights of all Nigerians.
11. To
promote the development of science and technology and bring to the benefit of Nigerians abundant
opportunities of the global village.
12. Encouragement
of the full development of the political, cultural, social and economic
potentials of the Nigerian women and youths and creation of opportunities for empowerment.
13. To
create access to information for sustenance of
democracy.
14. To
eliminate poverty, corruption, want, ignorance, discrimination of all kinds,
and exploitation in our society,
15. To
provide full and gainful employment for all Nigerians who are able, willing to
work, and to secure for workers of all grades, full fruits and benefits of
their labour.
16. To
protect the interest of peasants, workers and farmers of Nigeria and strive to
obtain for them the best returns for their labour.
17. The
observance of open democratic process in all organs of the Party, government,
state and to defend the sovereignty of the people.
18. The
development of the Nigerian youth through the establishment and sustenance of
social, cultural and sporting activities.
19. The
development of leadership capable of effectively managing national institutions
and resources, as well as create conditions for the development of the
potentials of Nigerians.
20. To
co-operate with Trade Union organizations and corporate movements in Nigeria
with a view to developing and maintaining economic progress and harmony.
21. To
co-operate with any institution or association for the purpose of achieving any
of the objectives of the Party.
22. To
create an enabling environment for the unfettered flourishing of
professionalism in Nigeria.
23. To
facilitate the devolution of political and administrative powers of the
Federation, especially in respect of natural resources, education and
agriculture, to the six geopolitical zones of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in
order to create more viable federating units and to ensure the full realization
and exploitation of the resources of the country.
7.1. ADMISSION INTO MEMBERSHIP
Membership
of the Party shall be open to every Nigerian irrespective of place of origin or
ethnic background or religion.
1.
Membership of the Party shall be
open to all Nigerians who are not below the age of 18 years, and who undertake
to abide by the Constitution of the Party.
2.
A register of members shall be
kept at the Ward level of the Party to register members and the register shall
be sent to the National Secretariat for electronically updating of the
membership data base. The hard copy register shall not be removed from the Ward Secretariat.
3.
The membership register
maintained at the ward shall be authenticated
by being signed by the Ward Chairman and counter-signed by the State
Chairman.
4.
A prospective member shall;
a.
Register at his or her Ward of
origin or where he or she ordinarily resides or carries on business; and
b.
Pay the prescribed registration
and other fees before admission into the Party.
5.
Application for membership shall
be considered by the Ward Executive Committee, which shall have power to accept
or reject any application. Provided that any rejection shall be subject to
review by the next higher organ of the Party at the States or National levels.
6.
A membership card shall be issued
to a registered member of the Party, which shall bear the photograph of the member.
7.
The Membership cards shall be
produced by the National Headquarters and authenticated by the National
Chairman and/or National Secretary on the authority of the National Chairman
and or as may be delegated.
1.
A member of the Party shall be
free to resign his/her membership at any time.
2.
Upon resignation, a member shall
be required to surrender all property of the Party in his/her possession to the
appropriate registered office of the Party and obtain clearance to that effect
from his/her State secretariat.
1.
Membership of the Party shall be
terminated by death, resignation or expulsion.
2.
Where any member of the Party
became aggrieved and or dissatisfied with any decision taken by the Party he or
she may have the right to ventilate his
grievance to the National Executive committee.
3.
A Party member who is aggrieved
with the decision taken in respect of his/her matter shall first exhaust
his/her difference with the internal reconciliatory organ before resorting
elsewhere, otherwise, or failure to comply with same stands void.
4.
Only the National Convention or
the National Executive Committee shall
have power to expel a member from the Party.
1.
A person who desires to rejoin
the Party after leaving it shall,
a.
Apply to his Ward Secretary for
re-admission; and
b.
Unless, given waiver by the
National Working Committee, be placed on
probation for a period of not less than a year.
2.
Subject to the provision of
Section 8(b), a member on probation shall have
the right to attend all meetings of the Party, but shall not be entitled to
vote at such meetings, nor shall he be eligible to contest for elective office
on the platform of the Party.
3.
Members shall pay their monthly
subscription fees at the Ward level, which must be reflected on their
membership cards, and where a member consistently fails to pay his subscription
fees for six months, such membership will be deemed to have lapsed.
4.
The Party membership register
shall be computerized to ensure control and
to avoid fraud, and all Ward registers shall be closed five months to
Congresses.
a. Procedure and processes of keeping membership
records shall be standardized such that there is uniform way of keeping and
preserving records at all levels of the Party. The master record shall be
maintained at the National Secretariat while periodic. Updates should be submitted by the State
or Local Government chapters through the State Chairman of the Party of each
respective State.
5.
Party members should ensure that
they verify their names before the closure of Ward registers; and
authentication or recertification by the Ward
Chairmen and/or Secretaries should take place before nomination processes
begin. The membership cards and registers shall be classified as Party security documents.
1.
Without prejudice to the
provisions of this Constitution, any member who fails to renew his membership
by payment of the annual subscription fees within 6 months after due date shall
cease to enjoy the rights and privileges of membership and if in default for
upward of 12 months shall cease to be a member of the Party.
2.
Any member who loses his
membership on account of failure to pay his dues or to meet any other financial
obligations shall resume membership only on the payment of all outstanding dues
and penalties.
3.
Any Party member who loses his
membership for reasons other than non- payment of annual subscription may be
readmitted on the recommendation of his Ward Executive Committee, through the
Local Government Area Executive Committee, to the State Chapter of the Party, and ultimately made to the
National Working. Committee, subject to ratification by the National Executive Committee.
1. A person who has earlier decamped from
the Party but later decides to return to the Party shall lose the seniority and
privileges conferred on him by his previous status.
RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF MEMBERS
1.
RIGHTS:
a.
Take full, active and
constructive part in the discussion, formulation and implementation of the
policies and programmes of the Party.
b.
Offer constructive criticisms of
any policy, activity or programme of the Party.
c.
Receive and disseminate
information on all aspects of policies programme and activities.
d.
Submit proposals or statements to
the Ward, Local, State, or National Executive Committees, provided such
proposals or statements are submitted in accordance with the appropriate rules
and regulations of the Party.
e.
Take part in elections and be
elected or appointed to any Committee, Commission or delegation of the Party
subject to such conditions as may be
directed by the Party.
a.
A member of the Party shall
Belong to and take an active part in the life
of his branch.
b.
Take all necessary steps to
understand, propagate and execute aims and objectives of the Party.
c.
Ensure that he/she is registered
as a voter in the Constituency where he/she resides.
d.
Subject to the provisions of this
Constitution be eligible to vote and be
voted for at Party meetings and elections.
e.
Endeavour to acquaint himself or
herself with the cultural, economic and social problems of the country.
f.
Pay such fees, levies and dues as
may be prescribed from time to time by the National Convention or by any other
organ of the Party authorized to do so.
g.
Combat propaganda detrimental to
the Party and defend the policies and programme of the Party.
h.
Oppose ethnic, gender
discrimination, political and religious intolerance or any other form of discrimination.
i.
Observe discipline, behave
honestly and carry out loyally all decisions of the majority and higher organs
of the Party.
j.
Refrain from publishing and
distributing to the media any articles purporting to be the view of any faction
or tendency within the Party without due authorization.
k.
Upon enrolment a member shall be
deemed to have accepted to refrain from acts of sabotage against the Party.
I.
Be loyal to the Party by
observing its rules and regulations and not to do anything that is inconsistent
with the provisions of this Constitution and the manifesto of the Party.
ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
For
purpose of organization, the Party shall operate at the following levels (in
descending order) namely:
1.
National
2.
Zonal
3.
State
4.
Local Government Area (L.G.A)
5.
Ward
ORGANS
The
following shall constitute the organs of the Party:
1.
The National Convention
2.
Board of Trustees
3.
The National Executive Committee
4.
The Zonal Executive Committee
5.
The State Congress
6.
The State Executive Committee
7.
The Senate Congress
8.
The House of Representatives Congress
9. The
Local Government Area Congress
10. The
Local Government Area Executive Committee
11. The
House of Assembly Congress
12. The
Ward Executive Committee
There
shall be a National Convention of the Party which shall consist of
a.
The National Chairman of the Party,
who shall be the Chairman of the Convention and other members of the National
Executive Committee;
b.
The President and Vice President
of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who are members of the Party;
c.
Members of the National Assembly,
who are members of the Party;
d.
State Governors and deputy
Governors who are members of the Party
e.
All elected gubernatorial
candidates of the Party who have won the primaries shall be automatic delegates
to the convention.
f.
Principal Officers of the State
Houses of Assembly who are Members of the Party;
g.
Chairman of the Board of Trustees
of each state who shall emerge through
an election conducted within themselves
h.
All state Party chairmen,
including those of the Federal Capital Territory
i.
Former members of the National
Working Committee who are still members of the Party; and
j.
Former Principal Officers and
past Members of the National Assembly who are Members of the Party.
k.
Former Principal Officers of the
State Houses of Assembly who are Members of the Party.
l.
National Delegates elected at the
Local Government Congresses (For elective conventions only).
a.
Without prejudice to the above
foregoing provisions, the first National Convention shall be composed of 20 delegates from each State Congress on the basis of
equality and one representative from each Federal Constituency. The Protem
National Chairperson of the Party shall have powers to summon the first
Convention, provided that subsequent Convention shall be summoned by the
National Chairperson of the Party, or by two-third (2/3) majority decision of
the National Executive Committee.
b.
Notwithstanding the provisions of
Article 10.1 (a) the number of delegates for
subsequent convention shall be predicated on the gravity and Importance of the
matter for such Convention to take a decision
on.
a.
The National Convention shall be
the supreme and controlling authority of the Party within the limits prescribed
in this Constitution and it shall be the principal representative, policy
making and administering body of the Party.
b.
Except in the exercise of the
functions granted only to other bodies as specified in this Constitution or in
the regulations made pursuant to the provisions of this Constitution, the
National Convention shall have supremacy in all matters pertaining to the Party
and all officers and organs of the Party shall be bound in the exercise of
their functions by the decisions of the National Convention.
c.
The policies of the Party derived
from the resolutions of the National Convention shall be amended or revoked
only by a subsequent resolution of the National Convention.
d.
The National Convention shall
have and exercise authority to: .
i.
Formulate policies and programmes
for the Party.
ii.
Elect or remove the National
Officers of the Party as the case may be;
iii.
Elect the Presidential Candidate
of the Party;
e.
Demand and receive reports from
the National Executive Committee and from any other Committees or organs of the
Party and take appropriate action on such reports;
f.
Appoint such Committees, as it
may deem necessary, desirable or expedient and assign to them such powers and
functions as it may deem fit;
g.
Examine the actions taken or
legislation proposed by any Government under its control whether Federal, State
or Local Government Council and ensure that they are in conformity with the
policies and programmes of the Party;
h.
At all elections, secure the return
of as many Party Candidates as possible in a manner consistent with the laws of
the land;
i.
Consider reports from the States
and Local Government branches of the Party and take such decisions and actions
as may be necessary to protect, advance and consolidate the gains and interest
of the Party;
j.
Raise adequate funds for the
management and sustenance of the Party;
k.
Exercise control and take
disciplinary action against all officers and members of the Party;
I.
Determine the type and membership
of Standing Committees to be setup by the National Executive Committee;
m.
Review and amend the Constitution
of the Party, from time to time, as the need arises and the power of the
National Convention to propose amendments to the Constitution shall not be delegated;
n.
Delegate any of its powers,
except the power to amend the Constitution, to the National Executive Committee
or to any other organ of the Party;
o.
Take such other actions as may
aid or facilitate the realization of the objectives of the Party;
p.
Appoint external Auditors to
audit the Party's accounts;
q.
Determine the minimum rate of
annual subscription to be paid by members
and the proportion of income from such subscription to be remitted to the
National Secretariat of the Party;
r.
Review, ratify, alter- or rescind
any decision taken by any of the constituent
bodies, units or officials of the Party; and
s.
Exercise such other powers and
authority not inconsistent with the provisions of this Constitution as shall
aid or facilitate the realization of the objectives of the Party.
1.
The quorum of the National
Convention shall be two-third of its membership and a simple majority shall
pass any motion.
2.
The National Convention to elect Party's
Candidates for elected positions shall meet every four years and shall
alternate with the National Party Conference which shall hold bi-annually;
3.
The National Conference shall
hold bi-annually for the purpose of reviewing the performance of the Party in
governance at all levels.
4.
The National Convention shall determine
its own procedure in accordance with democratic principles;
5.
A Special National Convention may
be convened at any time at the instance of the National Executive Committee or
if requested for by two third of all State Congresses and the Special National
Convention shall meet to discuss only special matters which shall be specified
in the notice summoning the Convention.
6.
Voting on key issues at the
National Convention shall be by secret ballot.
Establishment
and Composition:
1.
There shall be a Board of
Trustees of the Party (BOT) which shall consist of;
(a)
All past and serving Presidents
and Vice Presidents of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who held or hold the
respective posts' as members of the Party and who are still members of the Party.
(b)
All past and serving National
Chairmen, Deputy National Chairmen, and
National Secretaries of the Party, who are still members of the Party.
(c)
All past and serving Presidents
of the Senate and Speakers of the House of Representatives, who are still
members of the Party.
(d)
All founding members and
promoters of the Party in each State of the federation and shall not exceed the
number of local governments in the respective state. Such appointment shall be
ratified by the National Executive committee of the Party Provided that
membership of the Board of Trustee shall reflect the Federal Character
principle of Nigeria.
2.
The Board of Trustees shall.
(a)
Elect a Chairman and Secretary in
each State of the federation from its members, of which the Chairman shall also
be a member of the National Board of Trustees.
(b)
Without prejudice to the
provision of this Constitution, ensure that the person to be elected Chairman
and Secretary respectively are of proven integrity and have contributed
immensely to the growth of the Party.
(c)
Ensure that the Chairman and
Secretary of the Board of Trustees shall subject to Section 17 (1) of this
Constitution, serve a term of four years and are also eligible to recontest if interested.
(3) A
person shall qualify for membership into the board of Trustees if he or she;
a.
is a registered card carrying
member of the Party for not less than two years consecutively;
b.
has been paying his annual
subscription fees as when due
c.
has attained and or not less than
25 years of age,
d.
Is a person of integrity
(4)
Without prejudice to the
provisions of Section (17) of this Constitution, all members of the Board of
Trustees shall serve a term four years and are eligible to recontest if interested.
(5)
The Board of Trustees shall,
subject to the provision of this constitution
(a)
ensure highest
standards of morality in all the activities of the Parties by acting as the
conscience of the Party, with power to call to order any officer of the Party
whose conduct falls below the norms;
(b)
ensure high morale of members of
the Party and that the Party enjoys a good image before the Nigerian populace
and is in good health.
(c)
harmonize, co-ordinate, review
and advise on policies, programmes and activities of the Party at the national level;
(d)
co-ordinate the sourcing of Party funds;
(e)
be vested with assets of the Party
and shall serve as custodians of such assets;
(f)
mediate in disputes between the
Executive and Legislative arms of Government;
(g)
offer advice on Party matters to
the National Executive Committee the National of the Party;
(h)
attend any meetings of any other
organs of the Party except the National Executive Working Committee; and
(i)
undertake any other functions and
activities as may be referred to it by the National Executive Committee or the National Convention.
(6)
The Board of Trustees shall
regulate its own proceedings and
shall draw up a code of conduct
for its members. Removal and Resignation
(7)
A member of the Board of Trustees shall;
(a)
be removed from office by a
resolution of the National Convention on the recommendations of the National
Executive Committee on . grounds of infirmity of body or mind or misconduct, or
(b)
if he resigns his membership of
the Board of Trustees by tendering a letter
to that effect to the Chairman of the Party.
(8)
without prejudice to the
provisions of this constitution, a member of the Board of Trustees shall lose
his membership of the Board.
(i)
he is expelled from the Party; or
(ii)
he is removed from the appointive
or elective office which made an automatic member of the Board of Trustees
under this constitution.
(9)
fresh selection shall be made to
fill any vacancy in the Board of Trustees where applicable.
(10) The
Board of Trustees shall meet at the instance of the Chairman or at the request
of half of the of the members of the Board or following a resolution of the
Board or the National Executive Committee requesting for such a meeting
(11) The
quorum for the Board of Trustees meeting shall be two-third of its members
drawn from at least two third of the States in the Federation, and a simple
majority shall pass any motion.
There
shall be a national Executive Committee which shall consist of;
a.
National Chairperson
b.
Deputy National Chairperson
c.
Six (6) National Vice
Chairpersons (representing the 6 geopolitical
zones)
d.
National Secretary
e.
Deputy National Secretary
f.
6 Assistant National Secretaries
(representing the 6 geopolitical zones)
g.
National Treasurer
h.
Deputy National Treasurer
I.
National Financial Secretary
j.
Deputy National Financial Secretary
k.
National Publicity Secretary
I.
Deputy National Publicity Secretary
m.
National Organizing Secretary
n.
Deputy National Organizing
Secretary
o.
National Auditor
p.
Deputy National Auditor
q.
National Legal Adviser
r.
Deputy National Legal Adviser
s.
National Welfare Secretary
t.
Deputy National Welfare Secretary
u.
National Women Leader
v.
Deputy National Women Leader
w.
National Youth Leader
x.
Deputy National Youth Leader (Male)
y.
Deputy National Youth Leader
(Female)
z.
National Leader of persons living
with Disabilities
za. Deputy
National Leader of persons living with Disabilities
zb. National
Officer Liaison with Corporate Bodies, Association, Groups and Unions
zc. Deputy National Officer Liaison with Corporate Bodies,
Association, Groups and Unions
zd. The Chairpersons of the Party in 36 States of the Federation
ze. Six (6) ex-officious (representing the 6 geopolitical zones)
zf.
The
Chairperson of the Party in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory
a.
Convene the National Convention
and appoint a Convention Organizing Committee which shall circulate Convention
information in advance and ensure that the concerns of the membership are
reflected on the Agenda.
b.
Carry out the decisions and
instructions of the National Convention.
c.
Supervise and direct the work of
the Party and all its organs including the
National, Zonal, state and Local Government
organs.
d.
Ensure that all the organs of the
Party function democratically and
effectively.
e.
Where necessary, dissolve a State
Executive Committee and appoint a Care- Taker Committee to run the Party until
another Executive Committee is elected, provided that the period from the
dissolution to the election of the new Executive Committee shall not exceed 6 months.
f.
Prepare reports and budgets for
approval by the National Convention.
g.
Initiate policies and programmes
for approval by the National Convention.
h.
Consider appeals and other
matters referred to it by the zones or states of the Federation.
i.
Make rules for Party discipline
which shall be binding on all organs and members of the Party.
j.
Subject to the provisions of this
constitution, make Party electoral regulations to govern the conduct of
elections to all Party offices at every level and regulate procedure for
selecting the Party candidates for elective offices;
k.
Ratify the conditions of service
of the employees of the Party in accordance with the Establishment Manual.
I. Make standing orders for approval by the National Convention.
m.
Deal with any other matters
referred to it by the National Convention or
the Board of Trustees;
n.
Establish
departments and set up ad-hoc or standing committees of the Party.
o.
Manage and control all the assets
and property of the Party wherever they maybe.
p.
Examine the actions, policies,
programs and legislations proposed by the federal or state governments produced
by the Party and take measures to ensure that they are in accordance with the
principles, policies, programs, objectives and manifesto of the Party and make
necessary recommendations or take any appropriate actions.
q.
Grant waivers to deserving new
members of the Party to enable them contest for Party positions and to become
eligible to contest or stand for election into public office on the platform of
the Party by suspending the provisions of Articles 13(2) and 19 of (3) the
Constitution of the Party.
1.
The National Executive Committee
shall meet at least once in every quarter at the instance of the National Party
Chairman or at the request of two- third of its membership, who shall notify
the Chairman at least seven days prior to the meeting; and an emergency meeting
be summoned by the National Chairman having regard to all the circumstances of
the agenda.
2.
The quorum of the National
Executive committee shall be two-third of the membership drawn from at least
two-third of the zones in the Federation, and a simple majority shall pass any motion.
There
shall be a Zonal Working Committee which shall consist of;
a.
The National Vice Chairman from
the Zone, who shall be the Chairman;
b.
The President or Vice President
of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; who are members of the Party from the Zone;
c.
Members of the
National Assembly from the Zone who are members of the Party.
d.
The State Governors and Deputy
Governors from the Zone, if members of the Party.
e.
Members of the National Executive
Committee from the Zone.
f.
Members Board of Trustees from
the Zone.
g.
The Speaker, Deputy Speaker Party
Leader and Party Whip in the State
Houses of Assembly in the Zone, who are members of the Party;
h.
The Zonal Secretary, who is the
Assistant National Secretary, shall be the
Secretary of the Committee;
i.
The State Chairmen, State
Secretaries, Treasurers, Women Leaders and Youth Leaders of the Party from the Zone;
j.
The Zonal Treasurer;
k.
Zonal Organizing Secretary;
I.
The Zonal Financial Secretary;
m.
The Zonal Publicity Secretary;
n.
The Zonal Women Leader
o.
The Zonal Youth Leader;
p.
One ex-officio member from each
of the states in the zone
q.
All National Excos from the zone;
r.
All state chairman from the zone;
s.
Members of the board of trustees
from the zone
t.
Zonal Leader of Persons living
with Disabilities
u.
Zonal Officer Liason with
Corporate Bodies, Associations, Groups and Unions
v.
National Delegates from the Zone
elected at the Local Government Congresses (for elective congresses only)
Functions: The functions of the Zonal
Executive Committee shall be to:
a.
Harmonize, co-ordinate and review
all activities of the Party within the zone;
b.
Establish ad-hoc or standing
committees of the Party within the zone;
c.
Prepare agenda for and summon meetings
of the Zonal Congress;
d.
Prepare reports and budgets for
the consideration of the zonal congress; and
e.
Carry out any other functions
assigned to it by the National Executive
Committee.
a.
The Zonal Executive Committee
shall meet not less than once in every quarter at the instance of the National
Vice Chairman provided that two third of the members of the Committee shall
have power to summon an extra-ordinary meeting.
b.
(4) The quorum of the Zonal
Executive Committee shall be onethird of the membership of the Committee drawn
from at least two-third of the States in the zone and a simple majority shall
pass any motion.
There
shall be a State Party Congress which shall consist of:
a.
The State Chairman, who shall be
the Chairman;
b.
The President and Vice President
of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who are members of the Party from the state;
c.
The Governor, Deputy Governor of
the State if members of the Party;
d.
Members of the Board of Trustees
e.
Members of the National and Zonal
Executive Committees from the State;
f.
Members of the State Executive committee;
g.
The members of the National
Assembly from the State and the members of
the State House of Assembly, who are members of the Party;
h.
All elected Local Government
Council Chairmen and Vice Chairmen who are
members of the Party;
i.
All Local Government Chairmen of
the Party in the state;
j.
Without prejudice to the
foregoing, the FCT shall be considered as a State in the federation and operate
mutatis mutandis therewith.
Functions: The functions of the State
Congress shall be to:
a.
Approve the budget of the State
Branch of the Party.
b.
Implement the decisions of the
National Executive Committee of the Party
for electing candidates into elective positions.
c.
Receive reports from officers of
the Party; and
d.
Receive the Auditor's report.
a.
The State Congress shall meet
once in every two years oil a date and at a venue to be determined by the State
Executive Committee provided that the State Congress shall be held before the
National Convention.
b.
The quorum of the State Congress
shall be two-third of the members drawn from the three Senatorial Districts of
the State and a simple majority shall pass any
motion.
Without
prejudice to the provisions of this Constitution, the first State "Congress
shall be composed of twenty (20) members elected from each.
Local Government Area and members
of the Protem Executive Committee of the Party. The
Protem Chairperson shall have powers to summon the first Congress of the Party
provided that subsequent Convention shall be summoned by the State Chairperson
of the Party or
by
two-third (2/3) majority decision of the State Executive Committee
There
shall be a State Executive Committee which shall consist of;
a.
State Chairperson
b.
State Deputy Chairperson
c.
Three (3) State Vice Chairpersons
(representing the 3 senatorial zones)
d.
State Secretary
e.
Assistant State Secretary
f.
State Treasurer
g.
Assistant Treasurer
h.
State Financial Secretary
i.
Assistant State Financial Secretary
j.
State Publicity Secretary
k.
Assistant State Publicity Secretary
l.
State Organizing Secretary
m.
Deputy State Organizing Secretary
n.
State Internal Auditor
o.
State Legal Adviser
p.
Deputy Legal Adviser
q.
State Welfare Secretary
r.
Assistant Welfare Secretary
s.
State Women Leader
t.
Deputy State Women Leader
u.
Three (3) Zonal Women leaders
(representing the 3 senatorial , zones)
v.
State youth Leader
w.
Deputy State youth Leader
x.
Three
(3) Assistant Youth leaders (representing the 3 senatorial zones)
y.
State
Leader of Persons living with Disabilities
z.
Deputy
State Leader of Persons living with Disabilities
za. State Officer Liaison with Corporate Bodies,
Associations, Groups and Unions
zb. Deputy State Officer Liaison with Corporate
Bodies, Associations, Groups and Unions
zc. Three (3) ex-officios (representing the 3
senatorial zones) without prejudice to the foregoing, the FCT shall be
considered a state for the purposes of this constitution.
There
shall be a Local Government Area Congress which shall consist of:
a.
The Local Government Chairman of
the Party and other members of the Local Government Area Executive Committee;
b.
All the National, Zonal and State
Executive Committee members of the Party from the Local Government Area;
c.
The elected Local Government
Council Chairman, Vice Chairman and Councilors, who are members of the Party;
d.
All members of the National and
State House of Assembly from the Local
Government Area, who are members of the Party;
e.
Members of the Board of
Trustees/National Delegates from the Local Government Area;
f.
All Chairmen of the Ward
Executive Committees from the Local Government
Area;
g.
Elected political office holders
from the Local Government Area, who are members of the Party.
The
functions of the Local Government Area Congress shall be to:
a.
Recommend
guidelines for electing members to the Local Government Executive Committee of
the Party;
b.
Elect Local Government Council
Chairmanship Candidates of the Party;
c.
Ratify Local Government delegates
to the State and National Convention;
d.
Approve the budget of the Party
at the Local Government level; and
e.
Receive the Local Government
Auditor's Report.
a.
The meetings of the Local
Government Area Congress shall be held not less
than once a year.
b.
The Chairman of the Local
Government Committee shall summon the Local Government Area Congress.
There
shall be a Local Government Executive Committee which shall consist of:
a.
Local Government Chairperson
b.
Three (3) Local Government Vice Chairpersons
c.
Local Government Secretary
d.
Deputy Local Government Secretary
e.
Local Government Treasurer
f.
Deputy Local Government Treasurer
g.
Local Government Financial Secretary
h.
Deputy Local Government Financial Secretary
i.
Local Government Publicity Secretary
j.
Deputy Local Government Publicity Secretary
k.
Local Government Organizing
Secretary
I.
Deputy Local Government Organizing Secretary
m.
Local Government Legal Adviser
n.
Deputy Local Government Legal Adviser
o.
Local Government Welfare Secretary
p.
Deputy Local Government Welfare Secretary
q.
Local Government Women Leader'
r.
Deputy Local Government Women Leader
s.
Local Government Youth Leader
t.
Deputy Local Government Youth Leader (Male)
u.
Deputy Local Government Youth Leader (Female)
v.
Local Government Leader of
Persons with Disabilities
w.
Deputy Local Government Leader of
Persons with Disabilities
x.
Local Government Officer Liaison
with Corporate Bodies, Associations, Groups and Unions
y.
Deputy Local Government Officer
Liaison with Corporate Bodies, Associations, Groups and Unions
z.
Three (3) ex-officios
The
functions of the Local Government Executive Committee shall be to:
a.
Identify and resolve political,
social and economic issues of concern to the
Local Government area;
b.
Receive and implement reports
from the wards on:
I.
membership
ii.
Fund raising
iii.
Strategies for political
campaigns and electoral success, and
iv.
Mobilization of voters;
c.
Provide strategies for effective
communication between the wards and the
local government area;
d.
Undertake general administration
of the Party in the local government area;
e.
Implement the decisions of the
Local Government Congress and other
higher organs of the Party; and
f.
Employ all Secretarial staff for
the Local Government branch of the Party.
I. The Local Government Executive Committee
shall meet not less than twice a month.
ii.
The meetings shall be summoned by
the chairman.
iii.
An extra-ordinary meeting of the
Local Government Executive Committee shall be held if requested for, by
two-third of the members of the Local Government Executive Committee and such a
meeting shall be held within seven days of the
request.
v. The quorum of the Local Government
Executive Committee shall be one- third of its membership drawn from at least
two-third of the Wards in the Local Government Area and a simple majority shall
pass a motion.
There
shall be a Ward Executive Committee which shall consist of:
There
shall be a Local Government Executive Committee which shall consist of:
a.
Ward Chairperson
b.
Three (3) Ward Vice Chairpersons
c.
Ward Secretary
d.
Deputy Ward Secretary
e.
Ward Treasurer
f.
Deputy Ward Treasurer
g.
Ward Financial Secretary
h.
Deputy Ward Financial Secretary
i.
Ward Publicity Secretary
j, Deputy Ward Publicity Secretary
k.
Ward Organizing Secretary
I.
Deputy Ward Organizing Secretary
m.
Ward Legal Adviser
n.
Deputy Ward Legal Adviser
o.
Ward Welfare Secretary
p.
Deputy Ward Welfare Secretary
q.
Ward Women Leader I
r.
Deputy Ward Women Leader
s.
Ward Youth Leader
t.
Deputy Ward Youth Leader (Male)
u.
Deputy Ward Youth Leader (Female)
v.
Ward Leader of Persons Living
with Disabilities
w.
Deputy Ward Leader of Persons
Living with Disabilities
x.
Ward Officer Liaison with Corporate
Bodies, Associations, Groups and Unions
y.
Deputy Ward Officer Liaison with
Corporate Bodies, Associations, Groups and Unions
z.
Three (3)ex-officios
FUNCTIONS; The function of the Ward
Executive Committee shall be
a.
administration of the Party at
the ward level;
b.
raising funds for the Party;
c.
membership drive for the Party;
d.
drawing up strategies for
political campaigns;
e.
mobilizing voters for the Party;
f.
Implement the decisions of the
Ward Congress and other organs of the
Party;
a.
Receiving the ward auditor's
report; and
b.
Perform such other functions as
may be in the interest of the Party, and as may, from time to time, be assigned
to it by higher organs of the Party.
a.
The Ward Executive Committee
shall meet at least once a month.
b.
Meetings of the Ward Executive
Committee shall be summoned by the
Ward Chairman
c.
An extra-ordinary meeting of the
Ward Executive Committee shall be held if requested by at least two-third of
the members of the Ward Executive committee or if requested by one-third of the
registered members of the Ward and such a meeting shall be held within seven
days of the request.
d.
The quorum at Ward Executive
Committee meeting shall be one-third (1/3) of its membership and a simple
majority shall pass any motion.
1.
In recognition of the peculiar
nature of the Nigerian state, powers shall be devolved to the six geopolitical
Zones of the Federation. Consequently, the Zones shall have partial autonomy
and to exercise this power by having the authority to Run their administration
and finances under the control and supervision of the National Vice Chairman
and its Zonal Executives.
2.
To generate revenues in
accordance with the provisions of our Party's
Constitution.
3.
Whatever revenue generated shall
be disbursed and managed with the National Headquarters on 60/30 basis. Sixty
percent for the affected zone and
30 percent for the National Headquarters. While 10% shall be kept in the' Party's
account for contingencies of the Party.
NATIONAL OFFICERS: There shall be the National
Officers of the Party, who shall be men and women of integrity and demonstrable
competence and shall perform the functions assigned to them in the constitution
of the Party which shall not contradict the Nigerian constitution.
12.1 THE NATIONAL CHAIRMAN SHALL;
a.
Summon and preside over the
meetings of the National Convention, the
National Executive Committee, the National Caucus and the National Working
Committee of the Party;
b.
Provide firm and effective
leadership and direct the activities of the
Party under the overall supervision of the National Executive Committee;
c.
Promote and defend the integrity,
policies and programs of the Party and make pronouncements for and on behalf of
the National Executive Committee outlining the policies, programs and
activities of the Party;
d.
Assign specific functions to any
member or officer of the Party;
e.
Delegate his powers to the Deputy
National Chairman;
f.
Cast votes if and when necessary.
g.
Present to the National
Convention a comprehensive statement of the State of the Party and the
political situation generally;
h.
Ensure strict compliance with the
provisions of this Constitution and do all
such other things as shall promote the growth and welfare of the Party;
a.
Assist the National Chairman in
the discharge of his duties;
b.
Deputize for the National
Chairman in the latter's absence; and
c.
Perform such other Party
functions as may be assigned to him.
12.3 THE NATIONAL VICE CHAIRPERSONS (representing
the six (6) zones) SHALL:
a.
Preside over zonal meetings.
b.
Recommend and Appoint the zonal
executives and coordinate the activities of
the Party at the zonal levels.
c.
Carry out all duties assigned to
him/her by the National Chairperson, or the National Executive Committee.
12.4 THE NATIONAL SECRETARY SHALL;
a.
Supervise the Party's day-to-day administration.
b.
Ensure the implementation of the
decisions and directives of the National
Convention and National Executive Committee.
c.
Issue notice of, and, make
effective arrangements for, meetings of the National Convention, the National
Executive Committee, on the directive of the National Chairperson.
d.
Keep an accurate record of all
the proceedings at the National Convention
and National Executive Committee.
e.
Render a written annual report on
the activities of the Party.
f.
Carry out other duties that may
be assigned to him/her from time to time by
the Party.
g.
Create
directorate of archives and, library whose director will be responsible to the National Secretary.
12.5
DEPUTY
NATIONAL SECRETARY SHALL
a.
Assist in the discharge of the
functions of the National Secretary in the latter's
absence.
b.
Perform all such other duties as
may be assigned to him from time to time by
the National Secretary.
12.6
ASSISTANT
NATIONAL SECRETARIES: (Representing the Six (6)
Geo-political Zones) SHALL:
a.
Keep an accurate record of
proceedings at Zonal meeting; and
b.
Perform any other duties as may
be assigned to them by the National Vice
Chairperson of their Zones.
12.7 THE NATIONAL TREASURER SHALL:
1.
Ensure that all revenues and
expenses of the Party are properly accounted
for:
2. Advise
the National Executive Committee on financial
matters.
3.
Be a signatory to the Party's
bank account
4.
Ensure that all monies paid to
the Party are duly receipted for and deposited
in approved bank accounts of the Party not later than 24 hours after collection.
5.
Keep a general imprest account,
the limit of which shall be determined by the
National Executive Committee.
6.
Pay all monies duly approved by
the National Chairperson.
7.
Prepare and submit to the
National Executive Committee a quarterly statement
of accounts of the Party.
12.8 THE DEPUTY NATIONAL TREASURER SHALL:
a.
Assist the Treasurer in the
performance of his/ her duties.
b.
Act as Treasurer in the latter's absence.
12.9 THE NATIONAL FINANCIAL SECRETARY SHALL:
a.
Collect and keep proper records
of all dues, levies, subscriptions etc. belonging to the Party.
b.
Hand over all such monies to the
National Treasurer to bank within 24 hours of
collection.
c.
Be a signatory to the Party's
bank account
d.
Prepare and submit proposals for
raising of Party funds for the consideration
of the National Executive Committee.
12.10 THE DEPUTY NATIONAL FINANCIAL
SECRETARY SHALL:
a. Assist the National Financial Secretary
and act for him/her in his/her absence.
12.11 THE NATIONAL PUBLICITY SECRETARY SHALL:
a.
Be responsible for the public
relations and publicity activities of the Party;
b.
Be the principal image manager of
the Party;
c.
Advise the Party on media
matters;
d.
Publicize the policies and
programmes of the Party.
12.12 THE DEPUTY NATIONAL PUBLICITY
SECRETARY SHALL:
a.
Assist the National Publicity Secretary and act for him/her in his/her absence.
12.13 THE NATIONAL ORGANIZING SECRETARY SHALL
a.
Research and strategize for the Party
b.
Proffer solutions to contemporary issues
c.
Planning and execution of
workshops and seminars for the Party
d.
Reviewing of Party policies and programmes
e.
Any other assignment relating to
strategy and planning
12.14 THE NATIONAL INTERNAL AUDITOR
SHALL:
a.
Audit the books of the Party
quarterly and submit written audit reports to
the National Executive Committee.
b.
Conduct other checks and balances
on the finances, assets and liabilities of the Party as may be directed from
time to time by the National Chairperson, National
Executive Committee or National Convention.
12.15 THE NATIONAL LEGAL ADVISER SHALL:
a.
Be responsible for giving legal
advice to the Party.
b.
Arrange for the conduct of
litigation and defense on behalf of the Party,
including its organs, officers and officials where the subject of
litigation pertains to Party's interest.
12.16 DEPUTY NATIONAL LEGAL ADVISER SHALL:
a. Assist the Legal Adviser and act for
him/her in his/her absence.
12.17 THE NATIONAL WOMEN LEADER SHALL
be responsible for:
a.
Mobilizing and organizing women;
b.
Initiating and implementing
strategic programmes and policies aimed at
endearing the Party to Nigerian women; and
c.
Coordinating the activities of
the Zonal and State Woman' Leaders.
12.18 THE DEPUTY NATIONAL WOMEN LEADER SHALL
a. assist the National Woman Leader in the discharge of her
duties; and shall deputize for her
in her absence.
12.19 THE NATIONAL YOUTH LEADER SHALL be
responsible for;
a.
Mobilizing the youth for the
attainment of the objectives of the Party;
b.
Initiating and implementing
strategic programmes and policies aimed at
endearing the Party to the Nigerian youth; and
c.
Co-coordinating the activities of
the Zonal and State Youth Leaders.
12.20 THE DEPUTY NATIONAL YOUTH LEADER SHALL
a.
deputize for the National Youth
Leader in the discharge of his or her duties,
and shall deputize for him in his absence.
12.21 EX-OFFICIOS SHALL
b.
Perform any duties assigned to
them by the zonal chairmen and/or the national
executive committee. All ex-officios shall have voting rights at meeting once
appointed or elected.
These
functions shall apply mutatis mutandis to other levels of the Party structure
in the zonal, states, local government area and ward levels.
However,
only three vice chairmen are allowed for the state based on senatorial
districts and three for the Local Government and ward level based on districts
and poling units respectively.
12.22
VACANCY
In the event of a vacancy
occurring in any of the Party positions either by resignation, death, removal
or incapacitation due to ill health, unsoundness of the mind, bankruptcy or
conviction, the office shall be filled in the manner as follows:
a.
In the case of a National/Zonal
Officer, the State Executive Committee shall propose a replacement to the State
Congress and Zonal Executive Committee for endorsement. Thereafter, the name
shall be forwarded to the National Working Committee for onward forwarding to
the National Executive Committee for approval.
b.
In the case of State Officer, the
Local Government/Area Council Executive Committee shall propose a replacement to
the Local Government/Area Council Congress for endorsement. Thereafter, the name
shall be forwarded to the State Executive Committee for approval.
c.
In the case of Local
Government/Ward Officer, the Local Government Executive Committee shall propose
a replacement to the Local Government Congress for endorsement and thereafter
the name shall be forwarded to the State Executive Committee for approval
ARTICLE 13:
NOMINATION OF CANDIDATES FOR
ELECTION INTO PUBLIC OFFICES
13.1.1 The
National Executive Committee shall, subject to the provisions of the
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the
Electoral Act (as amended) and this constitution, formulate guidelines and regulations
for the nomination of candidates for election into public offices at all levels
and shall be the final authority for
resolving all disputes relating to the choice of candidates for the Party for
any election and for conveying to the Independent National Electoral
Commission, or any other authority to whom it may concern, confirming the names
or list of names of candidates for the Party in any elective public office in
the federation.
13.1.2
The National Executive Committee
shall regulate the procedure for selecting
the Party's candidates for elective offices.
13.2
There shall be a minimum of
one-year membership span for a member to be eligible to stand for election into
any public office EXCEPT those specifically granted waiver by the National
Working Committee (NWC) of the Party. This clause shall not apply to new
members coming into the Party following the consummation of fusion agreement
with other Groups.
13.3
Waiver
i.
The National Working Committee (NWC) shall in special circumstances, grant
a waiver to a person seeking a National Party position, who is otherwise not
qualified going by the provisions of this Constitution, if, in the opinion of
the NWC, the grant of such a waiver is in the best interest of the Party.
ii. The
NWC of the Party shall in special circumstances grant a waiver to a person
seeking the office of the President, Vice President, Governor, Deputy Governor,
Senator, Member of the House of Representatives, who is otherwise not quailed
going by the provisions of this Constitution, if, in the opinion of the NWC,
such a waiver Is in the best interest of the Party.
iii. The State Working Committee (SWC)
shall in special circumstances, grant a waiver to a person seeking election to
a Party office at the State level and below or office of Member of House of
Assembly and below, who is otherwise not qualified going by the provisions of
this constitution, if, in the opinion of the SWC such a waiver is in the best
interest of the Party.
Condition
for Waiver
A person may be granted a waiver on the
following conditions only
a. He
or she is not an ex-convict
b. He
has subscribed in writing to the Manifesto of the Party
c. He
has applied formally for a waiver to the National Working Committee/State
Working Committee
13.4
Candidates for Party positions
must possess a minimum of secondary school
certificate or its equivalent as requisite qualification to be eligible to
contest except waived by the National Executive
Committee.
ARTICLE 14 EMERGENCY MEETINGS:
1.
Without prejudice to the above
provisions, the Executive Committee at all levels may summon an emergency
meeting of the National Convention or Congress at any time, provided that, at
least seven days' notice of the meeting is given to all those entitled to attend.
2.
The Chairperson of any organ of
the Party shall preside over the meetings of
that organ except in the case of a sub-Committee where the presiding
person may be appointed by the Executive Committee of the organ from among themselves.
3.
All meetings of the Party shall
be conducted and recorded in English Language. However, the Chairperson of a
meeting may use his discretion to allow the use of local language if in his judgment communication and the
peace of the meeting would be thereby facilitated.
4.
With the exception of the
following listed motions, no motion and amendment shall be entertained at a
meeting, unless, at least, seven (7) days' notice of such motion had been given in writing to the Secretary or the Chairperson.
5.
A motion that any subject be
deferred or referred to a Committee or an appropriate body.
6.
A motion proposing an amendment
shall be seconded before discussion
7.
A motion for adjournment.
8.
Every motion and amendment shall
be seconded before discussion.
9.
A motion for amendment may be
withdrawn at any time at the request of the
mover and with the consent of the Chairperson.
10.
In urgent or emergency situation,
the Chairperson of a meeting shall have the
discretion to dispense with the requirement to give notice of motion.
11.
Deliberations at a meeting shall
be strictly on the subject matter listed on
the agenda of the meeting, provided that general issues may be presented
or discussed at the end of the main agenda.
12.
Except upon a duly notified
motion, a fresh deliberation or debate on a
matter already concluded shall not be
permitted.
13.
A member shall indicate a desire
to speak by a show of one hand, sitting, and
shall rise to speak only when called upon to do so by the Chairperson
14.
Any member deviating from these
rules or from the agenda of a meeting shall
be immediately called to order by the Chairperson or by another member
raising a point of order.
15.
The Chairperson of a meeting
shall have power to ask any erring or offending
member to leave the meeting.
16.
No member shall leave a meeting
without the permission of the Chairperson.
17.
Voting on any subject at a
meeting shall be by a show of hands or by secret
ballot.
18.
Except otherwise provided in this Constitution, decisions of any organ of the
Party shall be taken by a simple majority of votes of members present.
19.
A quorum for any meeting of any
organ of the Party shall be constituted if no fewer than 1/3 of the members of
that organ entitled to attend the meeting are present provided that the
Principal Officers of that organ namely the Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer,
Legal Adviser and Financial Secretary where applicable are present or have
consented in writing that the meeting proceed in their absence.
ARTICLE 15: ELECTIONS AND
APPOINTMENTS:
1.
All Party posts prescribed or
implied by this Constitution shall be filled
by democratically conducted elections except otherwise stated.
2.
In the event of nomination,
elections or appointment for the formation of,
or participation in government and/or at Party level, the National
Executive Committee shall make rules and regulations and shall take into
consideration and uphold:
a.
The federal character principle
and the principle of geographical spread.
b.
All other factors necessary for
the total success of the Party.
c.
In the event of a position vacuum
created by suspension, expulsion for gross misconduct, resignation, death or
any other reasons, the National Chairman or any person delegated by him shall
have the power to make appointments to fill
such vacancy pending the conduct of a convention.
d.
The National Executive Committee
in consultation with the Board of Trustees
shall give effect to general decisions taken by the convention.
ARTICLE 16: FINANCE, BANKING AND AUDIT
16.1
FINANCE:
1.
The funds of the Party at
all/eve/s shall be derived from all or any
Of the following sources:
a.
Registration fees
b.
Periodic dues (as may be decided
by Convention or Congress)
c.
Levies (as may be decided from
time to time by Convention or Congress)
d.
Donations and Contributions
e.
Any other legitimate source that
may be approved from time to time by the
National Executive Committee.
2.
The National Headquarters shall
be entitled to 60% (Sixty Percent) of all incomes
accruing to the Party at the state level, provided that nothing in this provision
shall prevent the National Convention through its agencies, from generating
funds of its own.
3.
The National Headquarters,
through its principal organ (the National Executive
Committee) shall have the discretion to make special grants and donations or
grant loans (without interest) to any organ of the Party.
4.
The budget of the Party at any
level shall be approved by the appropriate Executive Committee and
authorization of all expenditures therein shall be vested in the appropriate
Chairperson.
5.
A fee to be known as the
Registration Fee, shall be paid by every member as one of the conditions of membership. The fee, which shall, be
the same amount throughout the country, shall be determined from time to time
by the National Executive Committee.
6.
A financial member of the Party
shall be a member who has paid all approved dues, fees and levies payable by
him/her under this Constitution.
7.a. There shall be established and maintained for the Party a fund
into which shall be paid all:
i.
Subscription, fees, and levies
from membership of the Party.
ii.
Proceeds from investments made by
the Party.
iii.
Subventions and donations.
iv.
Gifts and grants by individuals
or groups of individuals as authorized by law.
v.
Loans approved by the National
Executive Committee.
vi.
Such other moneys as may be
lawfully received by the Party.
b. Subscription fees and levies from
members of the Party.
i.
Annual Membership Subscriptions:
An annual membership subscription fee of N6000:00 (i.e. 500k per month) or such
amount as the National Executive Committee upon the recommendation of the
National Working Committee may from time to time approve shall be paid by all
members. The annual subscription fee
must be paid as and when due and endorsed on the membership card.
ii.
Levies and Public Officer Holders
to strengthen the Party finances, all elected
and appointed Party men and women should be made to pay the following additional levies:
1.
Elected public officers in the
various legislature (at the three tiers of government) 5% of annual basic salary.
2.
Appointed public officers (at the
three tiers of government) 5% of annual basic
salary.
3.
Ambassadors 5% of annual basic salary.
4.
Board Chairmen at Federal level:
5% of their basic allowances or remuneration.
iii.
Subventions and Donations:
Numerous individuals and friends of the Party
that enjoy patronage from the Party at National, State and Local
Government levels shall be encouraged to make donations annually to the Party.
The donations should be consistent with any law that may exist.
iv.
Proceeds from Sale of Nomination
Forms: Money generated from the sale of
nomination forms shall form part of the Party
finances.
v.
National Chairman's Annual Fund
Raising Dinner: The National Finance Committee should be mandated to organize a
National Chairman's Fund Raising Dinner annually. Participants (i.e., friends
of the Party and Party members) will pay for the dinner according to the
sitting arrangements among other criteria, to
be worked out by the committee charged with the organization of such dinner.
vi.
Business Ventures: National
Finance Committee to establish viable business
ventures that do not violate any sections of the Constitution of the Federal
Republic of Nigeria.
vii.
Proceeds from Investments: To
ensure the broadening and sustainability of the Party's revenue base, the
National Finance Committee shall invest in long term ventures. Such investments
can be made in blue-chip companies, Industries
and in real estate business.
viii.
Borrowing: While the Party should
be given the leverage to raise money through
borrowing, it is only when it is absolutely necessary that borrowing be
undertaken. Such action must be fully authorized by the appropriate Executive
Committee in session, and the exercise must follow due process.
16.2
BANKING:
The
Party at all levels shall operate Bank accounts in financial institutions
approved by the appropriate Executive Committee. Withdrawals from such accounts
shall be effected jointly by the appropriate chairperson as principal signatory
and either the National Secretary or the Treasurer, as cosignatory.
16.3
AUDIT:
A
firm of Chartered Accountants shall be appointed by the National Executive
Committee to audit all the accounts of the Party and submit the audited
Accounts and Reports, at least once a year. A statement of the Party's assets
and liabilities shall be published in accordance with the prevailing laws of
the federation on the authority of the National Convention.
16.4
TRANSPARENCY
AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PARTY
FINANCES
To
ensure accountability and transparency in the management of Party finances.
a.
The National Executive Committee
shall design Standard Financial regulations
that must govern the management of Party finances at all levels.
b.
Finance Committee at all levels
must include the Treasurer, Financial Secretary
and Auditor who must be involved in the actual management of Party finances
(i.e, the Committee will originate budgets, effect disbursement and ensure
accountability).
16.5
At the National level , the
President, if a member of the Party shall ensure compliance with the provisions
of this Constitution as affecting membership
dues in respect of all federal political appointees, while the Senate
President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, as the Leaders of
the National Assembly, if members of the Party or the Leader of the Party in
the Senate or House of Representatives shall ensure compliance with the
provisions of this Constitution by all members of hearty in the National Assembly.
16.6
At the Zonal level all provisions
applicable at the National level shall apply. At the State level, the Governor,
if a member of the Party shall ensure compliance with the provisions of this
Constitution as relating to membership dues in respect of all State political
appointees, while the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, if a member of the Party or the leader of
the Party in the State House of Assembly shall ensure compliance with the
provisions of this Constitution by all members of the Party in the State House
of Assembly.
16.7
At the local government level,
the Chairman of the Local Government Council, if a member of the Party, shall ensure compliance with the
provisions of this constitution as relating to membership dues in respect of
all local government council political appointees, while the leader of the
Local Government Legislative House shall ensure compliance with the provisions
of this constitution by all members of the Party in the local government
legislative house.
16.5 BANK ACCOUNTS
8.
The Party at the State and Zonal
levels shall maintain a Bank Account at the
city or town where its headquarters is situated and where bank
facilities are not available, the services of the bank nearest to the city or
town shall be utilized.
9.
The Executive Committee of the Party
at any level shall decide the banks to be
used in keeping the account.
10.
The authorized signatories to the
bank account and other financial transactions s hall be the following officers,
as the case maybe.
i.
The National Chairman or his or
her counterparts at Zonal, State, Local
Government and Ward levels.
ii.
The National Secretary
iii.
The National Treasurer provided
that withdrawals from or debit
instructions on the account shall be
valid only if authorized by the National Chairman or his or her counterpart and
any of the other two signatories, that is, the National Secretary or Treasurer
of the Party.
ARTICLE 17: TENURE OF OFFICE:
1.
Standing and Ad-hoc Committees at
any level may be appointed and dissolved at
the discretion of the appropriate Executive Committee.
2.
Except as otherwise provided in
this Constitution, all officers of the Party elected or appointed into the Party's
organs shall serve in such organs for a period of four years and shall be eligible for re-election or re-
appointment for another period off our (4) years.
3.
An officer at the National and
State levels of the Party shall not hold another office at State or National
organ of the Party simultaneously, other than being an
ex -officio member of that organ.
4.
An officer shall be relieved of
his/her post at any time if a 'Vote of No Confidence" is passed on him/her
at a National Convention or a Congress by two- thirds (2/3) of accredited
voting members present.
ARTICLE 18: DISCIPLINE
1.
The Party as a disciplined
organization, shall accordingly, ensure that all members contribute to its good image by self-discipline,
honesty, good conduct, decorum and demeanor, and show loyalty to the Party,
government and the nation.
2.
The following shall constitute
acts of indiscipline by members of the Party in the context of the Party:
disloyalty, cross-carpeting, sabotage, disorderly behavior at meetings, theft, fraud, disrespect of
the Party leadership, immoral conduct, failure to fulfill financial obligations
and other obligations of membership, conviction for criminal offences, any
other conduct deemed unacceptable to the Party.
3.
In addition to the acts of
indiscipline set out in (2) above, a holder of
a political office or a public office holder elected or appointed on the
platform of the Party shall be guilty of an act of indiscipline if he/she
should omit or refuse to carry out
and reflect the Party's expressed position on National issues including
economy, resource control, education, foreign affairs etc., except in so far as
the Party position may conflict with the Constitution of the Federal Republic
of Nigeria.
4.
All acts of indiscipline shall be
punished. Punishment shall vary and range from reprimand to expulsion depending
on the gravity of the offence committed and
other considerations.
5.
Disciplinary Committee(s) shall
be appointed by the Executive Committee at all levels and shall have power to
recommend any disciplinary measures against an offending member provided that
only the National Convention shall have power
to expel such a member.
6.
A public office holder or
political office holder on the platform of the Party at state level or local
government level who is accused of act( s) of indiscipline shall be subject respectively only to
the State
or
Local Government Disciplinary Committee set up by the executive committee of
the Party in that state, or local government.
7.
Any political officer holder
or public office
holder under the platform of the Party at the National level shall be
subject to the Disciplinary Committee set up by the National Executive Committee.
8.
Notwithstanding any provisions of
this Article, the Party may, where necessary, invoke its rights to seek legal
redress against any offending member(s).
9.
The Executive Committee at all
levels shall have power to suspend a member
at their respective levels for acts of
indiscipline.
10.
A suspended member shall lose the
privileges of a member of the Party.
11.
A Suspended member shall have the
right of appeal to the State Executive Committee, in the case of a suspension
by the Ward, or local government; or the National Executive Committee, in the
case of a suspension by the State, provided
that no officer shall be suspended, on recommendation by any organ lower than
that to which he/she is elected.
12.
In all matters of discipline,
every member of the Party shall enjoy that right to fair hearing.
ARTICLE 19: GENERAL PROVISIONS
AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION:
1.
Provisions of this Constitution
shall be subject to amendment, if it is so decided by a minimum of two-thirds
(2/3) of voting members present at a meeting of National Convention, provided
that notice of such amendment shall have been filed with the National
Secretariat not less than thirty (30) days before the date of the National Convention and circulated
not less than fourteen (14) days before the date of the Convention.
2.
ELECTION
OF OFFICERS:
a.
Election of Officers of the Party
at every level shall be held not later than one month before the expiration of
tenure of the incumbent executive Committee.
b.
Voting shall be by secret ballot
unless otherwise decided
by the Convention or
Congress.
C. A Candidate at any election shall be declared winner if
he/she scores the highest number of
votes cast.
d.
In the event of a tie in any
ballot, a run-off election for that particular office shall be conducted for those candidates until a winner emerges.
e.
Where any Candidate has been duly
nominated for a position such candidate/s shall be put in such a position he
has been nominated by way of affirmation by the convention.
3.
ELIGIBILITY:
No member shall be eligible to contest any election unless that member has been
a financial member at least Three (3) months before the date of such election EXCEPT for new members to whom this
clause shall not apply and those granted waivers by the National Working
Committee.
4.
RULES
AND REGULATIONS: All organs of the Party shall
have powers to make rules and regulations for the smooth running of the Party
provided that such rules and regulations are not in conflict with the
provisions of this Constitution.
5. SPECIAL CHAPTERS:
a.
Special Chapters of the Party shall
be set up as and when the need arises.
b.
All such special Chapters shall
exist to-serve-the purpose of membership in
special situations.
c.
All such special Chapters of the Party
shall function independent of other Chapters, subject to the provision of this Constitution.
d.
Approval for the establishment of
a Special Chapter shall be sought by a minimum of fifty (50) members of the Party exposed to the special situation after a
resolution to that effect has been taken by them.
e.
The National Executive Committee
shall examine the circumstances of all such applications and shall have power
to approve or reject the formation of any such
Chapter.
f.
The following chapters are
recognized by the Party;
DIASPORA CHAPTERS;
1. Subject to the approval of the National Executive Committee,
Members of the Party who resides in Countries having diplomatic relations with
Nigeria, not being less than fifty
in number, may establish country Chapters of the Party in their places of
residence, but shall only be eligible to enjoy all the rights of membership, if
duly registered in their respective wards in Nigeria and have fulfilled all
other obligations.
2, For the purpose of coordinating the activities of the
Diaspora Chapters, there shall be
established I the office of the National Secretary, a Coordinator of Diaspora
of the Party.
PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES:
Membership
of the Party shall be open to all Nigerians inclusive persons with disabilities
who attained the statutory age of 18 years, and who undertake to abide by the
Constitution of the Party, and desires to join the Party shall follow the
prescribed procedures of membership registration.
6. EMOLUMENT: The Salaries
and other conditions of service of officials shall be
decided by the appropriate Executive Committee, which shall have power to
employ and dismiss.
SCHEDULES:
SCHEDULE 1: CODE OF CONDUCT
Every
member of the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) shall:
1.
Uphold and defend the Supremacy
of the Constitution
2.
Respect and obey the Party
structures
3.
Not belong to any other political
Party or Association while retaining the
membership of the New Nigeria People's Party.
4.
Abide and conduct himself/herself
in way and manner that will not
bring the name and image of the Party into disrepute
5.
Settle whatever differences using
internal Party machinery
6.
Not be involved in corrupt practices
7.
Live up to the expectations of
the Party by not taking advantage of one's
office/position
8.
Not represent the Party at any
public functions, diplomatic missions and or at any other official function without the due consent of the
appropriate organ of the Party.
SCHEDULE II: INTERPRETATION OF
TERMS:
For
the purpose of this Party exclusively, and in the context of this Constitution,
the following terms are hereunder defined:
1.
At all levels: National, State,
Local Government area and Ward.
2.
Egalitarian Society: society in
which members of the society are treated as
equals legally, socially, morally and politically and are exposed to
equal opportunities to develop their inherent potentials as individuals without
prejudice to ethnic background, religion or circumstances of birth or sex, etc.
3.
L.G.A.: Local Government Area.
4.
Primary Health Care:
Comprehensive health care, including basic medical immunization, health
education, and essential drug supply to health
institutions designated for the purpose, environmental sanitation,
nutrition, maternal and child health.
5.
Principal Executive Organs: The
National Executive Committee at the National, Zonal, State, Local Government
Area Level and the Ward Executive Committee
at the Ward Level.
6.
Protem Officers:
The Acting Officers of the Party at all levels until the Convention or Congress of the Party at that level elects its
substantive officers.
7.
Party Emblem and Colors: Green:
Agriculture White: Transparency Sky Blue: Love
Basket of Food: Abundance Olive Branches: Peace and Reconciliation
8.
Highest Number of Vote Cast:
Simple majority of votes cast at any election.
SCHEDULE III: DECLARATION AND
CITATION:
We
hereby declare that this amended Constitution, to be cited as the Constitution
of the New Nigeria People's Party was amended and ratified by the National
Convention of the Party held in
Abuja on the 30th day of March, 2022.
PROF.
RUFA’I AHMED AKALI DIPO OLAYOKU
National
Chairman National Secretary