The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) has issued a new directive on the suspension of its president, veteran singer Pretty Okafor.
PREMIUM TIMES reported that the National Working Committee (NWC) of PMAN suspended Mr. Okafor for multiple violations of the organization's constitution, financial misappropriation and other offences.
However, during his TVC appearance, Mr Okafor dismissed PMAN’s allegations against NWC, saying they were motivated by greed and selfishness.
In a recent development, NEC confirmed the confirmation of Mr Okafor's suspension in a statement sent to this newspaper on Monday.
The statement read in part: “The NEC directs the National Working Committee (NWC) to maintain the status quo with respect to the suspension of Mr. Pretty Okafor and the Chapter Governors/Sole Trustees. The NWC is not to take any further action with respect to these suspensions until the PMAN Constitution conducts a full hearing. This decision ensures fairness and compliance with due process.”
“In accordance with Article 13 (C) (ii) of the PMAN Constitution, the NEC has resolved to appoint a National Disciplinary Committee (NDC) consisting of a Chairman and four (4) other members. The NDC is mandated to investigate allegations of misconduct and non-compliance with the Constitution or the Code of Conduct by Mr. Pretty Okafor and the Chapter Governors/Sole Trustees as directed by the NWC.”
Disciplinary Committee
In addition, NEC announced the formation of a National Disciplinary Committee (NDC) to investigate the allegations that resulted in Mr. Okafor’s suspension.
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According to NEC, the five-member disciplinary committee would ensure a thorough and impartial review of the allegations and uphold the principles of impartiality and integrity throughout the proceedings.
“The NEC recognises the constitution of the National Disciplinary Committee (NDC) to address the allegations of misconduct levelled against Mr Pretty Okafor and the suspended Chapter Governors/Sole Trustees. The members of the NDC have been carefully selected to ensure a fair and impartial review process as per Article 13 (C) (ii) of the PMAN Constitution.
“The committee is composed of the following persons: Chairman: Comrade Chuku Uchena James (Ebonyi State); Member: Comrade Aralola Olamuyiwa (Lagos State); Member: Comrade Jack Sydney Asuwani (FCT of Abuja); Member: Comrade Lady Golda C Njimbeako Alexander (Imo State) and Member: Comrade Robert Udende (Benue State),” the statement said.
The NEC further stated that the NDC would have the authority, as outlined in the PMAN Constitution, to summon any member of the association for questioning on allegations of misconduct or violations of the Constitution or the Code of Conduct.
Furthermore, the NEC stressed that the disciplinary committee will carefully consider any statements or evidence provided by the member with the allegations and will thoroughly review all relevant documents.
Furthermore, the NDC would conduct interviews with the complainant, the member and their respective witnesses, ensuring compliance with the principles of natural justice and ultimately making appropriate recommendations to the NWC.
The return of Okafor
Furthermore, the NEC requested that Mr Okafor return to Nigeria to present a full defence against the allegations made against him before the disciplinary committee.
While commending the NWC’s efforts to protect the integrity of the association, NEC stressed the importance of ensuring that all decisions are made strictly with due process and impartiality.
The NEC urged all members to maintain composure and unity as they navigate through difficult times and strive to improve our cherished association.
“The NDC will enable Mr Okafor to present all relevant evidence and clarify his actions before the committee. The NEC resolves to maintain transparency and unity within PMAN. Going forward, the NEC will actively monitor important matters to avoid any lapse in communication or decision making that may damage the reputation of the association.
“The NEC directs the NWC to immediately issue a press release on all media platforms and channels initially used to announce the suspension of Pretty Okafor and the affected chapter governors/sole trustees. This action is necessary to mitigate further damage to the association’s public image and assure members and stakeholders of our commitment to a fair and equitable resolution.”
Feelings of guilt
The NEC further stated that the suspension of any member, including the President, must follow a finding of guilt by the disciplinary committee, as outlined in Article 18 (A) of the PMAN Constitution.
“The NEC notes that no such committee had been properly appointed to address the allegations against Mr Pretty Okafor, making the suspension procedurally improper.
“The NEC reiterates that in accordance with Article 18 (D) of the PMAN Constitution, no member shall be fined, suspended or expelled from the association without being given a reasonable opportunity to be heard in person. The NEC is committed to upholding due process and ensuring that all measures taken are fair and equitable.”
PMAN was founded in 1984 by the late singers Christy Essien-Igbokwe and Sunny Okosun to guide, protect and promote the interests of musicians in Nigeria.
Mr. Okafor became President of PMAN in October 2016 and was re-elected in October 2023.