PREAMBLE
Having regard to the prevalent levels of malpractice in the election, nomination process, and organisation of political parties in Nigeria; having considered the dexterity with which officers and custodians of political parties in Nigeria create havoc among party members and the general populace by completely ignoring basic tenets of public office conduct; having regard to the unwarranted divide among members of political parties in Nigeria, and the ripple effect on our people in general; having regard to the abysmal levels of corruption, self-aggrandisement, and electioneering malpractices enshrined in the systems adopted by existing political parties in Nigeria; being mindful of the effect of this state of affairs on our general well-being as a country; the National Interest Party opts to promote transparency and good governance by being an information technology driven political party.
Having considered the extreme levels of divisiveness, lack of focus, lack of ideology, and particularly the complete lack of interest in the general welfare of the common people of Nigeria promoted by the structures and systems of internal governance adopted by existing political parties in Nigeria, the National Interest Party opts to give each verified member a voice in the choice of the persons who may control the party, and persons who may emerge contestants under the platform of the Party at all general elections in Nigeria.
Recognising that the lack of progress experienced in the many years of independence in Nigeria is largely due to the poor management structures of our political parties, and the pursuit of individual interests, as against the pursuit of the collective interests of our people.
Recognising also that poor organisation, and poor leadership of political parties transitions automatically to poor leadership, organisation and management of the people and resources of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
We the members of the NATIONAL INTEREST PARTY hereby enact and give unto ourselves the following Constitution.
PART I
NAME
1. This is the Constitution of a political party which shall be known as the “NATIONAL INTEREST PARTY” hereinafter referred to as (the “Party”).
PURPOSE
2. The purpose of the Party is to sustain and promote within Nigeria its objects and values including:
a. To pursue its aims and objectives without regard to religion, race, creed, tribe or ethnic affiliation of Party members.
b. To implement policies and programmes as determined by Party members and Party leaders.
c. To use at least 30% of the Party’s intake in the development of Party members and communities which mean a great deal to Party members.
d. To sustain a system of leadership which is accountable to Party members.
e. To contest all elections in Nigeria, and for that purpose draw support from all the people and communities which make up Nigeria.
f. To only put forward exceptionally talented contestants with clean criminal records, and undisputed integrity for general elections in Nigeria.
g. To respect the linguistic, cultural and religious diversity of Party members and to use this diversity in promoting its activities in Nigeria.
h. To support the emancipation, and participation of women and the youth in the Nigerian politics by encouraging their representation at all levels of Party activities.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
3. The Party shall have a manifesto, which subject to the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, shall be implemented by all organs of the party and governments elected under the Party’s platform.
4. The Party shall:
a. Promote sustainable development through the provision of good education, good health care, food security, adequate housing, employment, improved infrastructure and basic services;
b. Uphold the integrity and sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as one united indivisible political entity;
c. Promote the national integration of, and the peaceful co-existence of the diverse communities in Nigeria;
d. Promote a democratic society founded on freedom, equality and justice;
e. Ensure respect for the fundamental rights of every person in Nigeria as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria;
f. Assist in the just resolution of local and international disputes; and
g. Support the struggle for the rights of women, children and those with disabilities.
SUPREMACY OF THE PARTY CONSTITUTION
5. Subject to the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, this Constitution shall be supreme in the management and organisation of the Party, and its provisions shall have binding force on all members and organs of the party.
MOTTO
6. The motto of the Party shall be “INTEGRITY. COMMITMENT. TRANSPARENCY.” (abbreviated “ICT”).
SLOGAN
7. The slogan of the Party shall be “A NIGERIA FOR ALL”.
LOGO/EMBLEM
8. The logo/emblem of the Party shall be a narrow green road with white markings, and there shall be a rainbow at the horizon above the road. Above the rainbow shall be the Party’s acronym “NIP”, and at the bottom of the road shall be the slogan of the Party “A Nigeria For All”
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FLAG
9. The flag of the Party shall be a horizontal white flag with the emblem of the Party filling the entire area of the white flag.
REGISTERED OFFICE
10. The registered head office of the Party shall be in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and there shall be such other branch offices, and secretariats as the party may from time to time approve.
PART II
MEMBERSHIP
11. Membership of the Party shall be open to all Nigerians who are 18 years of age and above, and who undertake to abide by the constitution of the party, and support and carry out its manifesto to the best of their abilities.
Online Application and Verification of Members
12. Membership of the party shall be possible only by an application made on the Party’s internet website.
13. Each applicant shall apply for membership at their home ward which will be the ward of origin, and not necessarily the ward of their place of residence.
14. Only party members who successfully go through rigorous criminal background checks, and screening for good character are entitled to run for office for the leadership of the party, and to contest general elections in Nigeria.
Membership Register
15. The register of members shall be printed periodically, and kept at the Head Office of the Party in the F.C.T. Abuja.
16. Each printed membership register shall be authenticated by the signature of the National Chairman and the National Secretary of the Party.
17. Authenticated Party membership registers are security documents of the Party.
Membership Dues and Fees
18. The Party shall not charge any dues or fees to members. Political office holders who win seats on the platform of the Party will be required to pay proportionate dues to the Party, as will be determined by the Party’s Board of Trustees (the “BOT”).
Membership Cards
19. A membership number and an e-card shall be issued electronically to each member who completes their online application for membership
20. Each member may print their e-cards, which will be sufficient means of identification at specified Party events.
21. Each verified member may request the delivery of plastic membership cards at a cost, which will be communicated to them at the point they apply for member verification online.
22. All payment to the Party shall be made to the Party’s nominated accounts.
Procedure for Rejoining the Party
23. A person who desires to re-join the party after leaving it shall,
a. Apply to the Party Board of Trustees for re-admission; and
b. If application to re-join is granted, the member will be placed on probation for a period of not less than one year before they can resume active participation in Party activities.
Loss of Membership
24. Upon receipt of a resolution of the BOT requesting the removal of any verified Party member for unruly or gross misconduct in the use of the Party’s website, online fora, other platforms or at Party events, the member shall be removed, and barred from reapplying to join the Party. The decision of the BOT is not further appealable to the Party.
25. Any person who is found to have either intentionally, or due to their gross negligence misled the Party so as to gain admission as a verified member, or so as to enter the “approved for leadership” cadre shall be barred for a period of not less than five years. The decision of the BOT is not further appealable to the Party.
Status of Returnee Members
26. A person who left the Party but later returns to the Party shall lose any privileges conferred on him by his previous membership status.
PART III
PARTY STRUCTURE
Party Leader
27. There shall be a Leader of the Party to be known as the “Party Leader”.
28. The Party Leader shall be drawn from the founding members of the Party, the Board of Trustees, the National Executive Committee, Party members elected to the National Assembly, and those elected as Governors, Deputy Governors, President, or Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
29. The first Party Leader shall be elected by the members of the Board of Trustees (the “BOT”) after the affirmation of the National Executive Committee following the Party’s registration as a political Party, and thereafter every four years.
30. The Party Leader shall determine the political direction of the Party having regard to the views of Party members and the National Convention.
Board of Trustees
31. There shall be a Board of Trustees of the Party referred to in this Constitution as the “BOT”, which shall be the supreme decision making body of the Party in respect to Party organisation and management. The BOT shall consist of –
i. The Party Leader, who shall be the Chairman of the BOT;
ii. Two Deputy Chairmen who shall be –
a. the Chairman of the National Convention, who shall chair the BOT in the absence of the Party Leader;
b. one BOT member appointed to the position of Deputy Chairman by the Party Leader, who shall chair the BOT in the absence of both the Party Leader and the Chairman of the National Convention.
iii. The National Secretary, who shall be the Secretary of the BOT.
iv. All past and serving Presidents and Vice Presidents of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who held or hold the respective positions as members of the party, who are still Party members;
v. All past and serving Presidents of the Senate and Speakers of the House of Representatives, who held or hold the respective positions as members of the party, who are still members of the party;
vi. All past and serving National Chairmen, Deputy National Chairmen, National Secretaries, and National Treasurers of the Party, who are still Party members;
vii. All founding members of the party as defined in this Constitution; and
viii. Up to ten person(s) found suitable by the National Executive Committee at the point of registration as a political party, and thereafter up to thirty persons found suitable by the BOT who have contributed immensely to the growth of the party.
32. The BOT shall not at any time be less than 30 persons, and shall not exceed 150 members in total.
33. Membership of the BOT shall reflect the Federal Character of Nigeria.
Functions of the Board of Trustees
34. The BOT shall subject to the provisions of this constitution –
a. Ensure the highest possible standards of integrity and competence in all Party related activities;
b. Be vested with the power to call to order officers of the Party, and Party members elected or appointed into public office via the Party’s platform, whose public policies and/or public conduct fall below expectation;
c. Ensure members are motivated, and that the Party enjoys acceptance by the general populace;
d. Harmonise, co-ordinate, review and advice on policies, programmes and activities of the party at all levels;
e. Co-ordinate fundraising for the Party;
f. Mediate between the Executive and the Legislative arms of Government in times of dispute;
g. Advice the National Executive Committee of the Party;
h. Serve as the apex disciplinary organ of the Party vested with the power to suspend or bar erring Party members.
i. Serve as the sole organ vested with the power to readmit previously decamped Party member(s).
j. Determine where necessary, what geopolitical zones members must originate from in order to contest specific roles in the National Executive Committee;
k. Undertake all other functions and activities as may be referred to it by the National Executive Committee or the National Convention.
35. The BOT shall regulate its own proceedings and shall draw up a Code of Conduct for its members.
Removal and Resignation
36. A member of the BOT shall –
a. Cease to be a member when they tender a letter of resignation to the National Chairman of the Party.
b. Cease to be a member when they join any other political party.
c. Cease to be a member if expelled from the Party.
d. Cease to be a member if removed from any appointive or elective office by virtue of which they became members of the Board of Trustees.
e. Be removed from office by a resolution of the National Convention on the recommendation of the Party Leader, or the National Executive Committee.
f. Grounds of removal shall include infirmity, misconduct, or gross negligence of duty.
Meetings
37. The BOT shall meet at the instance of the Party Leader, or the National Chairman, or at the request of half of the BOT members, or following a resolution of the BOT to meet, or at the request of the National Executive Committee.
38. The quorum of the BOT shall be 30 of its members drawn from at least two-third of the States of the Federation. A simple majority shall pass any motion.
NATIONAL CONVENTION
39. 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;
b. The Party Leader
c. All members of the National Executive Committee;
d. Members of the BOT;
e. The President and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who are members of the Party;
f. Members of the National Assembly who are members of the Party;
g. State Governors and Deputy Governors who are members of the Party;
h. Members of the State Houses of Assembly who are members of the Party;
i. Elected Local Government Area Chairmen who are members of the Party;
j. Elected Ward Councillors who are members of the Party;
k. State Party Chairmen, Secretaries, and Treasurers;
l. Local Government Area Party Chairmen;
m. LGA Ward Chairmen who are members of the Party;
n. Former Presidents, Vice Presidents, Governors, and Deputy Governors who are still members of the Party;
o. Former Senate Presidents, Deputy Senate Presidents, Speakers and Deputy Speakers of the House of Representatives who are still members of the Party;
p. All former principal officers of the National Assembly who are still members of the Party.
Functions of the National Convention
40. The National Convention shall –
a. Be the principal policy making, administering, and representative body of the Party.
b. Endorse the Presidential candidate elected on the Party’s election platform to the Independent National Electoral Commission as the sole Presidential Election candidate of the Party, in accordance with Party election rules set out in this Constitution.
c. Demand, receive and review from time to time, the administrative and financial reports of the Party from the National Executive committee, and from any other committees, or organs of the party from which such reports are desired.
d. Appoint such committees as it may deem necessary, desirable or expedient in promoting the policies and ideologies of the Party, and assign to them such powers and functions as it may deem fit.
e. Examine actions taken, and/or legislation proposed by any government under the Party’s control whether federal, state or local government level and ensure such actions and proposals are in conformity with the policies, ideologies and programmes of the party.
f. Endeavour to secure the return of as many Party candidates as possible in a manner consistent with the laws of Nigeria.
g. Consider reports from all the branches of the Party and take such actions as may be necessary to protect, advance and consolidate the gains and interest of the party.
h. Be responsible to raise adequate funds for the management and sustenance of the party.
i. Exercise disciplinary control over Party officers and Party members.
j. Review and amend the Constitution of the party, from time to time.
k. Delegate any of its powers, except the power to amend the Constitution of the Party to the National Executive Committee, or to any other organ of the party.
l. Appoint a firm of external independent Auditors to audit the Party’s accounts every four years.
m. Take such other actions as may aid or facilitate the realisation of the objectives of the Party.
Meetings
41. The quorum of the National convention shall be 50 of its members drawn from at least two-third of the States of the Federation, and a simple majority shall pass any motion.
42. The National Convention shall meet every four years.
43. The National Convention shall determine its own procedures in accordance with democratic principles;
44. A Special National Convention may be convened at any time at the instance of the National Executive Committee, or the BOT. The Special National Convention shall meet to discuss only special matters which shall be specified in the notice summoning the Convention.
ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE PARTY
45. The party shall be organized and administered at the following levels:
(a) Ward;
(b) Local Government Area (“LGA”);
(c) State; and
(d) National
46. In this Constitution and for the purpose of the organisation of the Party, the Federal Capital Territory is deemed to be a State.
WARD COUNCIL
47. There shall be a Ward Representative for each Ward in each LGA of each State of the Federation.
48. Ward Representatives shall be elected bi-annually by Party members from respective wards.
49. The Ward Representatives in each LGA, and all Ward Councillors elected under the platform of the Party in each LGA shall together form the LGA Ward Council.
50. The LGA Ward Council shall elect one of their members to serve as the LGA Ward Council Chairman.
51. The tenure of the LGA Ward Council Chairman shall be four years, renewable only once.
Functions of the Ward Representatives and the LGA Ward Council
52. The roles and functions of the Ward Representatives and members of the LGA Ward Council intertwine. They shall –
a. Promote the ideology of the Party and popularise the Party at the ward level;
b. Raise funds for the Party;
c. Promote membership drive for the Party at ward level;
d. Draw up and propose strategies for political campaigns, community outreach programmes, and member and community development programmes for their wards and local communities taking into consideration the peculiarities of the people and the existing order of such communities;
e. Mobilise local staff, volunteers and voters for proper administration of the Party, and to enable successful participation at general elections;
f. Implement the budget for Party related activities in their Wards which are devolved to them from their LGA Council, or their LGA Chairmen;
g. Keep and produce proper monthly accounting records for all funds disbursed to them for Party activities;
h. Produce quarterly reports on all Party related activities and expenditure and submit such to their respective LGA Chairmen.
i. Perform all such other functions as may be in the interest of the Party, and as may from time to time be assigned to them by the National Executive Committee.
Meetings of the LGA Ward Council
53. Ward Representatives and members of the LGA Ward Council shall meet at least once a month. Such meetings may be by virtual communication.
54. Meetings shall be summoned by the LGA Ward Chairman.
55. An extra-ordinary physical meeting of the Ward Council shall be held if requested by two-third of the Ward Representatives of the LGA.
56. The quorum at a LGA Ward Council meeting shall be two-third of its members and a simple majority shall pass any motion.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA COUNCIL
57. There shall be a Local Government Area Council which shall consist of:
a. The LGA Party Chairman, who shall be the Chairman of the LGA Council;
b. The LGA Deputy Chairman;
c. The LGA Secretary;
d. The LGA Accountant who shall be a qualified Chattered Accountant;
e. The LGA Ward Council Chairman;
f. All Ward Representatives of the LGA;
g. Elected Local Government Area Chairmen, Deputy Chairmen, and Ward Councillors, who are members of the Party.
58. All the officers in s.57(a), (b), (c), and (d) shall be elected on the Party’s election platform every four years by the verified members of the Party originating from that LGA, and in accordance with applicable Party rules and guidelines.
Functions of the LGA Council
59. The functions of the Local Government Area Council shall be to:
a. Identify and resolve political, social and economic issues of concern in their Local Government Area;
b. Promote the ideology of the Party and popularise the Party at the LGA level;
c. Raise funds for the Party;
d. Promote membership drive for the Party at the LGA level;
e. Receive and implement reports from the Wards on:
i. Fundraising;
ii. Strategies for political campaigns and electoral success;
iii. Mobilisation of voters;
f. Draw up and propose strategies for political campaigns, community outreach programmes, and member and community development programmes for their LGA taking into consideration the peculiarities of the people and the existing order of their communities;
g. Administer the Party at LGA level;
h. Mobilise staff, volunteers and voters for the Party at the LGA level;
i. Implement the decisions and budget for Party related activities in their LGA as will be devolved to them from time to time by the State, and National Executive Committees;
j. Keep and produce proper monthly accounting records for all funds disbursed to them for Party activities;
k. Produce quarterly reports on all Party related activities and expenditure, and submit such to their respective State Chairmen;
l. Perform all such other functions as may be in the interest of the Party, and as may from time to time be assigned to them by the National Executive Committee.
Meetings
60. The LGA Ward Council shall meet at least once a month. Such meetings may be by virtual communication.
61. Meetings shall be summoned by the LGA Chairman.
62. An extra-ordinary physical meeting of the LGA Council shall be held if requested by one-third of the members of the LGA Council.
63. The quorum for a LGA Council meeting shall be one-third of its members and a simple majority shall pass any motion.
STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
64. There shall be a State Executive Council which shall consist of –
a. The State Chairman, who shall be the Chairman of the Council to be elected by members of the Party originating from that State, and in accordance with applicable Party rules and guidelines;
b. The State Deputy Chairman, to be elected on the Party’s election platform by members of the Party originating from that State, and in accordance with applicable Party rules and guidelines;
c. One Senatorial District Representative to be elected by the verified members of the Party originating from that Senatorial District, in accordance with Party rules and guidelines;
d. The State Secretary, to be elected by members of the Party originating from that State, and in accordance with applicable Party rules and guideline;
e. The State Treasurer, to be elected by members of the Party originating from that State, and in accordance with applicable Party rules and guideline;
f. The State Campaign Organising Secretary, to be elected by members of the Party originating from that State, and in accordance with applicable Party rules and guideline;
g. The President and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in their respective States of origin, provided they are members of the Party;
h. The State Governor and Deputy Governor, if members of the Party;
i. Members of the National Assembly, who are members of the Party;
j. Members of the State House of Assembly, who are members of the Party;
k. Members of the Board of Trustees who are from the State;
l. All elected LGA Chairmen and their Deputies who are members of the Party;
m. All LGA Party Chairmen;
n. All LGA Chairmen who are members of the Party;
o. All elected Ward Councillors who are members of the Party;
p. The State Internal Auditor who shall be a qualified Chartered Accountant to be elected by Party members, and in accordance with applicable Party rules and guidelines.
Functions of the State Executive Council
65. The functions of the State Executive Council shall be to –
a. Promote the ideology of the Party, to popularise the Party at all levels, to identify and resolve political, social and economic issues of concern to the Party in the State.
b. Endorse the Gubernatorial, Senatorial, House of Representatives, and House of Assembly candidates of the State elected on the Party’s election platform to the Independent National Electoral Commission, in accordance with Party rules set out in this Constitution.
c. Manage and administer the activities of the Party in the State, and implement the policies and decisions of the National Executive Committee and the National Convention;
d. Raise funds for the Party;
e. Promote membership drive for the Party at all levels;
f. Prepare and implement the National Executive Committee approved annual budget for the State;
g. Receive and implement reports from the LGAs on:
iv. Fundraising;
v. Strategies for political campaigns and electoral success in each LGA;
vi. Mobilisation of volunteers and voters for each LGA;
h. Select and implement member and community development programmes for the State, taking into consideration the peculiar needs of the Party in the State;
i. Mobilise and train staff for the State Secretariat;
j. Keep and produce proper monthly accounting records for all funds disbursed to the State;
k. Produce quarterly reports on all Party related activities and expenditure, and submit such to the National Chairman;
l. Perform all such other functions as may be in the interest of the Party, and as may from time to time be assigned to them by the National Executive Committee.
Meetings
66. The State Executive Council shall meet quarterly at the instance of the State Chairman, and such meetings may be conducted by virtual communications.
67. An extra-ordinary physical meeting of the State Executive Council shall be held if requested by two-third of the members of the State Executive Council.
68. The quorum for the State Executive Council meeting shall be one-third of the members of the Council drawn from the three Senatorial Districts of the State. A simple majority shall pass any motion.
NATIONAL CAUCUS
69. There shall be a National Caucus of the party which shall consist of:
a. The Party Leader, who shall be the Chairman of the Caucus;
b. The National Chairman, who shall be the Deputy Chairman of the Caucus;
c. The Deputy National Chairman, who shall chair the caucus in the absence of the Party Leader and the National Chairman;
d. The National Secretary who shall be the Secretary of the Caucus;
e. The National Treasurer of the Party;
f. The President and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who are members of the Party;
g. The Senate President, the Deputy Senate President, the Leader, the Deputy Leader, the Chief Whip and Deputy Chief Whip of the Party in the Senate, who are members of the Party;
h. The Speaker, the Deputy Speaker, the Leader, the Deputy Leader, the Chief Whip and the Deputy Chief Whip of the Party in the House of Representatives, who are members of the Party;
i. State Governors who are members of the Party;
j. The Chairman and the Secretary of the BOT;
k. Six members of the BOT drawn from each of the six geo-political zones;
l. All Federal Ministers, who are members of the party;
m. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, if a member of the party;
n. The National Security Adviser, if a member of the party.
Functions of the National Caucus
70. The National Caucus shall –
a. Harmonise the relationship between the Executive and Legislative arms of government in order to coordinate Party activities with the activities of the Federal Government of Nigeria;
b. Consider, review and advise on policies and programmes of the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Meetings
71. The meetings of the National Caucus shall be summoned by the Party Leader, in consultation with other members of the Caucus, to consider important issues affecting the country in general, and the Party in particular.
72. The quorum of the National Caucus shall be two-third of its members.
73. A simple majority shall pass any motion.
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
74. There shall be a National Executive Committee of the Party which shall consist of –
i. The Party Leader;
ii. The National Chairman, who shall be the Chairman of the National Executive Committee;
iii. The Deputy National Chairman, who shall chair the National Executive Committee in the absence of the Chairman;
iv. The National Secretary;
v. The Deputy National Secretary;
vi. The National Financial Secretary;
vii. The Deputy National Financial Secretary;
viii. The National Treasurer;
ix. The Deputy National Treasurer;
x. The National Organising Secretary;
xi. The Deputy National Organising Secretary;
xii. The National Media and Publicity Secretary;
xiii. The Deputy National Media and Publicity Secretary;
xiv. The National Fundraising Secretary;
xv. The Deputy National Fundraising Secretary;
xvi. The National Welfare Secretary;
xvii. The Deputy National Welfare Secretary;
xviii. The Social Media Platforms, and Cyber-Monitoring Secretary;
xix. The Deputy Social Media Platforms, and Cyber-Monitoring Secretary;
xx. The National Youth Leader;
xxi. The Deputy National Youth Leader;
xxii. The National Women Leader;
xxiii. The Deputy National Women Leader
xxiv. The Website Development and Maintenance Consultant;
xxv. The National Internal Auditor of the Party;
xxvi. The National Legal Adviser to the Party; and
xxvii. The Deputy National Legal Adviser.
75. All officers of the National Executive Committee are to be elected by all members of the Party, and in accordance with applicable Party rules and guidelines.
76. All Party members qualified to contest for the positions in the National Executive Committee as listed in s.73(a) to (x), shall within 30 days of the announcement of up-coming elections by the National Executive Committee indicate their interest on the Party’s website.
77. On the basis of the qualification, experience and places of origins of members vying for, and/or who have indicated interest in the available positions to constitute the National Executive Committee, the BOT may reserve and assign specific roles to be contested only by members from specific geopolitical States, geopolitical zones in order to achieve Federal Character. This power shall be exercised on a case by case basis.
78. The BOT reserves the right to invite members who have not indicated interest in the proposed elections to contest such elections so as to ensure the Party meets the requirement of Federal Character in the composition of the National Executive Committee.
79. All Deputy National Officers shall perform the following functions –
a. Assist the substantive National Officers in the discharge of their duties;
b. Deputise for the substantive National Officers in their absence; and
c. Perform all such other Party functions as may be assigned to them by the National Chairman and the substantive Party Officers.
Functions of the National Executive Committee
80. The National Executive Committee shall –
a. Convene the National Convention giving prior notice of the Agenda items for the Convention;
b. Organise and control the day to day running of the affairs of the Party at the National level;
c. Raise funds for the management and sustenance of the Party;
d. Supervise and direct the Party, its members, and all its organs;
e. Ensure that all the organs of the party function democratically and effectively;
f. Examine the actions, policies, programmes and legislations proposed by the public officers who are members of the Party and take measures to ensure that they are in accordance with the principles, policies, programmes, objectives and manifesto of the party.
g. Make necessary recommendations or take appropriate actions where Party members who are in public office via the platform of the Party derail from the ideologies and binding principles of the Party;
h. Where necessary, dissolve a State Executive Council and appoint a Care-Taker Committee to run the Party at the State until another State Executive Council is elected, provided that the period from the dissolution to the election of the new State Executive Council shall not exceed 3 months;
i. Prepare reports and budgets for approval by the National Convention;
j. Collate State, LGA, and Ward level proposed member and community development programmes for approval by the National Convention.
k. Consider appeals on matters referred to it by Party members and executives;
l. Make rules for the discipline of Party members which shall be binding on all members and executives of the Party;
m. Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, provide electoral regulations to govern the conduct of elections to all Party offices, and regulate procedure for selecting the Party candidates for elective offices in the Federation;
n. Agree and ratify the conditions of service of the staff and employees of the Party at all levels;
o. Establish departments, set up standing or ad-hoc Committees of the Party to aid the achievement of Party objectives;
p. Subject to the approval of the BOT, manage and control all the assets and property of the Party;
q. In consultation with the Board of Trustees, appoint eminent Party leaders among verified Party members, to the position of member Emeritus. Persons so appointed shall have no voting right, but shall have the right to attend all the meetings of all the organs of the Party;
r. Confer such honours and awards to verified Party members as may aid the popularisation and realisation of the objectives of the Party;
Meetings
81. The National Executive Committee shall meet at least once every month at the instance of the National Chairman of the Party. Such meetings may be held via virtual communication means.
82. An extra-ordinary physical meeting of the National Executive Committee shall be held at the request of two-third of its members, who shall notify the National Chairman at least seven days prior to the meeting.
83. An emergency meeting may be summoned by the National Chairman having regard to all the circumstances of the agenda.
84. The quorum of the National Executive Committee shall be the National Chairman and five of its members. A simple majority shall pass any motion.
PART IV
POWERS AND FUNCTIONS OF OFFICERS OF THE PARTY
The Party Leader
85. The Party Leader shall determine the political direction of the Party, provide firm and effective leadership of the Party, and advice the organs of the Party at all levels to enable the continued development and advancement of the ideologies and strategies of the Party, as well as the development of Party members, and the communities that mean something to them.
86. The Party Leader shall summon and preside over the meetings of the BOT, and the National Caucus.
The National Chairman
87. The National Chairman shall be the Chief Executive of the party, and his functions shall be to –
a. Summon and preside over the meetings of the National Convention, and the National Executive Committee;
b. Provide effective leadership, and direct the activities of the Party having regard to the National Executive Committee, and the National Convention;
c. Assign specific functions to members and/or officers of the Party;
d. Delegate powers to the Deputy National Chairman;
e. Promote and defend the integrity, policies and programmes of the Party and make pronouncements for and on behalf of the National Executive Committee outlining the policies, programmes and activities of the Party;
f. Vote if, and when necessary to avoid deadlocks;
g. Present to the National Convention a comprehensive Statement of Affairs of the Party which is prepared annually;
h. Ensure strict compliance with the provisions of this Constitution, and to do all such other things as shall promote the growth and welfare of the Party;
The Deputy National Chairman
88. The Deputy National Chairman shall not be related to, or originate from the same region as the National Chairman;
89. The Deputy National Chairman shall perform the following functions –
a. Assist the National Chairman in the discharge of his duties;
b. Deputise for the National Chairman in their absence; and
c. Perform all such other Party functions as may be assigned to him by the Chairman;
The National Secretary
90. There shall be a National Secretary who shall be the Chief Administrative Officer of the party.
91. The functions of the National Secretary shall be to –
d. Disseminate, or direct the dissemination of correspondence of/for the Party;
e. Issue notices of meetings of the National bodies of the Party as may be directed by the Party Leader, the National Chairman, or the Convention Chairman;
f. Keep all records of proceedings of all organs of the Party at the National level;
g. Consult with the National Chairman in the discharge of the duties of their office;
h. Carry out any other duties as may be assigned to them from time-to-time by the National Convention, National Caucus, National Executive Committee, the BOT, and the National Chairman.
The National Financial Secretary
92. The National Financial Secretary shall perform the following functions–
a. Record pledges and commitments made to the Party by Party members, and other individuals and/or groups of individuals in Nigeria;
b. Follow up on such pledges and ensure they are redeemed by the pledgees timeously;
c. Ensure such funds are released to the Party Treasurer, or paid into Party accounts immediately they are received;
d. Ensure prudent management of the Party’s funds;
e. In consultation with the National Treasurer, prepare proposals for raising funds for the Party for the consideration of the National Executive Committee;
f. Protect the assets of the Party;
g. Assist the National Treasurer in the co-ordination of policies for proper investment of the funds of the Party so as to generate income and maximise profit for the Party;
The National Treasurer
93. The National Treasurer shall be a Chartered Accountant or a Legal Practitioner with undisputed integrity, and a track record of prudence.
94. The functions of the National Treasurer shall be to –
a. Promptly pay into the Party’s accounts all monies received for and on behalf of the Party in cash;
b. Ensure such cash receipts are paid into the Party’s accounts immediately they are received, and if for any reason immediate payment is not possible, such funds shall be paid into the Party accounts within 48 hours of collection;
c. Keep all cheque books and other banking documents of the party;
d. Ensure prudent management of the Party’s funds;
e. Prepare and submit yearly statement of account, and periodic reports to the National Executive Committee;
f. Collect and keep records of all dues and levies ascribed to members who were elected or appointed into public offices on the platform of the Party;
g. Keep a record of all major donations made to the Party and their source;
h. Submit proposals for raising funds for the Party for the consideration of the National Executive Committee;
i. Strictly supervise the budgeting, and budgetary control of the Party;
j. Protect the assets of the Party;
k. Establish and co-ordinate policies for proper investment of the funds of the Party so as to generate income and maximise profit for the Party;
The National Organising Secretary
95. There shall be a National Organising Secretary whose functions shall be to –
a. Coordinate with Party organs at the Ward, LGA, and State levels regarding the community friendly measures, and the programmes to be adopted for the effective mobilisation of Party members, the recruitment of volunteers, and the general organisation of Party campaigns at all levels;
b. Appraise the problems of the party in its grassroots outreach programmes and proffer solutions to such problems;
c. Harmonise information to be shared with all organs of the Party, and devise appropriate strategies for winning elections at all levels;
d. Coordinate all field activities of the party;
e. Organise seminars, workshops, rallies and campaign programmes designed for the effective recruitment of members of the Party;
f. Organise the compulsory debates which the Party’s Gubernatorial and Presidential candidates must undergo to enter the final round of three contest.
g. Carry out any other duties as may be assigned to them from time-to-time by the National Chairman.
The National Youth Leader
96. There shall be a National Youth Leader, whose functions shall include –
a. Mobilisation and sensitisation of the Nigerian youth via all available real and virtual platforms for the attainment of the objectives of the Party;
b. Initiating and implementing strategic programmes aimed at endearing the party to the Nigerian youth;
c. Proposing youth friendly outreach programmes to the National Executive Committee for consideration, and where appropriate, for onward transfer to the implementation committees of the relevant organs of the Party;
d. Carry out any other duties as may be assigned to them from time-to-time by the National Chairman.
The National Women Leader
97. There shall be a National Women Leader, whose functions shall include –
a. Mobilisation and sensitisation of the Nigerian women via all available real and virtual platforms for the attainment of the objectives of the Party;
b. Initiating and implementing strategic programmes aimed at endearing the party to the Nigerian women;
c. Proposing women friendly outreach programmes to the National Executive Committee for consideration, and where appropriate, for onward transfer to the implementation committees of the relevant organs of the Party;
d. Carry out any other duties as may be assigned to them from time-to-time by the National Chairman.
The National Media and Publicity Secretary
98. There shall be a National Media and Publicity Secretary who shall be the public relations officer of the Party, and the official spokesperson of the Party.
99. The functions of the National Media and Publicity Secretary shall include –
a. Coordination and dissemination of information from all party organs for onward release to the general public;
b. Chief image maker of the party;
c. The publicity of the ideologies, policies and programmes of the Party in line with the manifesto, aims and objectives of the Party.
d. Carry out any other duties as may be assigned to them from time-to-time by the National Chairman.
The National Fundraising Secretary
100. There shall be a National Fundraising Secretary of the Party whose functions shall be to –
a. Promote the ideologies, aims and objectives of the Party to potential donors;
b. Package activities and plans of the Party for presentation to potential donors;
c. Organise fundraising dinners, and commercially viable events with a view of promoting Party ideologies, and maximising profits for the benefit of the Party;
d. Schedule and attend meetings for and with National officers of the Party for the purpose of soliciting funding for the Party;
e. Carry out any other duties as may be assigned to them from time-to-time by the National Chairman.
The National Welfare Secretary
101. There shall be a National Welfare Secretary of the Party whose functions shall be –
a. To organise feeding, water, emergency shelter, and other minor incentives for volunteers and staff who partake in Party activities involving physical labour. These shall include, but will not be limited to assignments involving cleaning or beautifying local communities, treating and helping indigent patients at selected towns and villages, clearing and repairing roadways to enable pedestrians and motorists easier passage etc.;
b. Organising insurance and security where necessary to mitigate damages or losses to persons and properties at rallies, community outreach programmes, fundraising dinners, and commercial events organised by the Party;
c. Ensuring that staff and officers of the Party are properly looked after during assignments;
d. Carry out any other duties as may be assigned to them from time-to-time by the National Chairman.
Website Development and Maintenance Consultant
102. There shall be a Website Development and Maintenance Consultant who shall be an IT Engineer.
103. The functions of the Consultant shall include to –
a. Build and coordinate a team of IT experts who shall develop, build and maintain the Party’s website, mobile apps, and online election platforms.
b. Ensure smooth organisation, running and maintenance of the Party website.
c. Ensure the safety and protection of the Party website from hackers, cyber attackers, and impostors.
d. Carry out any other duties as may be assigned to them from time-to-time by the National Chairman.
Social Media Platforms and Cyber Monitoring Secretary
104. There shall be a Social Media Platforms and Cyber Monitoring Secretary who shall be an IT expert.
105. The Social Media Platforms, and Cyber Monitoring Secretary shall –
a. Ensure effective social media presence of the Party;
b. Monitor, update and maintain all Party social media platforms;
c. Monitor the activities of Party members to ensure there is no misuse of the Party website and social media platforms by Party Members;
d. Carry out any other duties as may be assigned to them from time-to-time by the National Chairman.
The National Auditor
106. There shall be a National Auditor of the party, who shall be a qualified Chartered Accountant with a track record of prudence and excellence. His functions shall be–
a. To audit the accounts of the Party annually, and prepare and submit relevant reports to the National Executive Committee;
b. To present the audited account to the National Convention when called upon to so do;
c. To carry out all other functions as may be directed by the National Chairman.
The National Legal Adviser
107. There shall be a National Legal Adviser of the Party who shall be a legal practitioner of the highest class, who possesses unquestionable integrity, and who has no less than 10 years post call experience. The functions shall be to –
a. Advise the officers and organs of the Party on all matters bordering on the laws of Nigeria as they directly affect the activities and plans of the Party;
b. Prepare legal documents for the use of the officers and organs of the Party;
c. Subject to the approval of the National Executive Committee, organise a team of legal practitioners, staff and professional advisers to undertake any litigation involving the Party as a body corporate, and Party officials in their official capacities.
d. Assist the organs of the Party in interpreting the laws and regulations affecting political parties in Nigeria, and in helping the organs of the party interpret and correctly apply this Constitution.
Resignation and Removal of Party Officers
108. A Party officer may resign their position by delivering a resignation letter to the National Chairman, or by sending such letter by registered courier to the National Headquarters of the Party. The resignation is effective from the date of receipt at the National Headquarters of the Party, or the date of receipt by the National Chairman.
109. A vote of no confidence may be moved on any member of the National Executive Committee of the Party at any National Convention.
110. Upon the passing of a successful vote of no confidence by the National Convention, the affected National Officer shall immediately cease to hold office, and shall handover all Party property to the National Officer designated by the National Convention to take over the duties of the removed officer.
111. A vote of no confidence may be moved by any member of the State Council at an extra-ordinary meeting conveyed for the purpose of removing any Party officer at the Ward, LGA, or the State level.
112. Upon the passing of a successful vote of no confidence by State Council, the affected officer shall immediately cease to hold office, and shall handover all Party property to the officer designated by the State Council to take over the duties of the removed officer.
113. A vote of no confidence shall be deemed defeated if not passed by a simple majority of the quorate members of the Party at the National Convention or the State Council who are sitting and voting.
POWERS OF OFFICERS AT OTHER LEVELS
114. Except where the provisions of this Constitution state otherwise, all officers at the State, Local Government Area and Ward levels shall, in relation to their respective functions, have the same powers as their corresponding National Officers.
115. Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, Executive Councils at all levels shall have the power to set up committees where necessary, desirable or expedient for the successful and efficient progression of the Party’s aims and objectives in their localities. The Councils may assign to such committee powers and functions as they may deem appropriate.
116. The Executive Committee and the Councils at all levels shall, in the appointment or election of members to serve the Party, strictly observe and apply the principle of Federal Character. However, mediocrity shall not be tolerated at any level.
PART V
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Term of Service of Elected Officers of the Party
117. Unless otherwise stated, every officer of the Party is elected to serve a term of four years.
Defection of Elected Public Officers to Other Political Parties
118. Any person who successfully runs and wins any election in Nigeria on the platform of the Party, who later defects to any other party, shall immediately leave his elected position to enable their Deputy who is still a member of the Party take over. Where there is no such Deputy, the elected officer shall hold the position on trust for the Party who shall field a replacement candidate within 30 days.
Mode of Election of Party Officers
119. Participation in Party elections for all offices shall be open to all party members who has fulfilled the requirements for nomination and election as provided for in this constitution, the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria or any other law, rules or regulations in force.
Nomination of Candidates for Election into Public Offices
120. All elections for nomination as the Party’s candidate to contest general elections into public offices in Nigeria shall be by the guidelines formulated by the National Executive Committee in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act and this Constitution.
121. Any person, who scores the highest votes in the elections conducted by the party shall be authenticated, endorsed and announced timeously by the National Executive Committee.
122. All disputes regarding the outcome of any election may be forwarded to the BOT via the Party’s National Headquarters.
Contesting Election into Public Offices on the Party’s Platform
123. The Party shall use the direct primaries method to field candidates for all general elections in Nigeria.
124. Every member of the Party shall be given equal opportunity to vote for their choice candidates.
Obligation of the Party to Members
125. The Party shall –
a. Create opportunities for members to serve Nigeria judiciously;
b. Adopt measures that encourage selfless service;
c. Provide adequate welfare and remuneration for staff and employees, Party officers, and appointees serving the Party on a full-time basis;
d. Provide adequate welfare and incentives for part-time officers, volunteers, dedicated Party members and their families, and local communities which are important to dedicated members of the Party;
e. Put in place measures aimed at strengthening the aspirations of members;
f. Recognise and reward excellence in promoting the aims and objectives of the Party, and the Party’s organisation, popularisation, and administration;
g. Encourage regular gathering and social activities aimed at developing familiar bonds among members.
PART VI
DISCIPLINE OF PARTY MEMBERS
Code of Conduct for Members
126. A Party member shall –
a. Take steps to provide necessary documentation for the verification of his identity and status as a Nigerian following his registration as a Party member;
b. Not disseminate or share offensive materials on any of the Party’s online portals, apps or websites;
c. Understand, propagate and execute the ideologies, manifesto, and aims and objectives of the Party;
d. Uphold religiously, the provisions of this Constitution;
e. Oppose tribal, ethnic, religious and political intolerance;
f. Oppose all forms of discrimination at all spheres;
g. Behave honestly, and carry out the decisions of the majority, and decisions of higher organs of the Party;
h. Refrain from publishing or distributing to the public, any article which purports to be the view of any group within the Party without due authorisation;
i. Combat any propaganda detrimental to the Party and defend the policies and programmes of the Party;
j. Endeavour to acquaint himself with the social, cultural, political and economic problems of our country Nigeria;
k. Be loyal to the Party and not do anything inconsistent with this Constitution;
l. Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, be eligible to vote and be voted for at party meetings and elections;
m. Not divulge the proceedings and decisions of the party unless expressly authorised to do so.
n. Not bring to public attention disagreements and conflicts within the party, unless expressly authorised to do so.
o. Not align with other parties or groups to undermine the Party, its ideologies, or any of its elected governments.
p. No member of the Party shall engage in violent conduct, or acts capable of inciting violence at any of its gatherings.
Code of Conduct for the Leaders of the Party
127. All Party members who satisfies the criteria for Party Leadership and are thereby elected to serve, shall in addition to observing the general Code of Conduct for members observe the following –
a. Report any change in circumstances that may warrant removal from the Leadership of the Party. Such circumstances may include; bankruptcy, involvement in corruption scandals, criminal convictions, cult or secret society membership, court judgements and reprimands pertaining to unpaid debts, etc.
b. Those elected into public offices on the platform of the Party, shall be guided by the manifesto, and the collective decisions of the Party.
c. Those elected into public offices through the Platform of the Party, shall pay such dues as are levied to them by the BOT as at when due;
d. No member of the Leadership of the Party shall publicly make negative critical comments about the policies of any government elected on the platform of the Party.
Offences
128. Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, the Party reserves the power to discipline any member who:
a. Commits any breach of the Party’s Constitution, and/or Manifesto;
b. Misuses the online platforms, apps and website;
c. Says or does anything likely to bring the party into disrepute, or contempt;
d. Disobeys or neglects to carry out lawful directives of the Party, any organs of the Party, or any officer of the Party properly authorised to give the directives;
e. Engages in dishonest practices, and/or defrauds the Party;
f. Engages in anti-party activities;
g. Engages in disorderly conduct at meetings, rallies, or at any Party event;
a. Engages in any conduct likely to cause disaffection among members of the party, or likely to disrupt the peaceful, lawful and efficient conduct of the business of the Party;
b. Engages in unauthorised publicity of intra Party disputes;
c. Creates a parallel Party organ at any level;
d. Promotes factions or belongs to any group under the guise of the Party by whatever name called, not being one provided for, or authorised by this Constitution;
e. Organises, retains, trains, equips or encourages the organisation, retention, training, equipping of any member or group of members for the purpose of employing violence, or coercion, or any form of intimidation whatsoever;
f. Resorts to court action, or litigation on any disputes, or on any matter whatsoever concerning rights, obligations and duties of any member of the party without first availing himself or herself of the remedies provided by the party under this Constitution;
g. Fails, refuses or neglects to treat a petition, complaint or appeal timeously.
Sanctions
129. Any member of the Party who commits any of the offences listed in Section 134 of this Constitution shall be liable to any, or a combination of the following penalties –
a. Reprimand;
b. Censure;
c. Fine;
d. Suspension;
e. Debarment;
f. Removal from office; and
g. Expulsion from the Party.
130. The National Executive Committee shall determine in the first instance what disciplinary measures may be taken against any member at all levels. Where the offender is a member of the National Executive Committee, this power shifts to the BOT who shall also be the final deciding authority for any matters relating to offences committed by members of the Party.
Remedies
131. Aggrieved Party members may report their grievance to the National Executive Committee. Where the aggrieved Party is a member of the National Executive Committee, they may report directly to the BOT.
132. Where the aggrieved Party member is not satisfied with the resolution of the National Executive Committee, an appeal shall lie with the BOT which is the final authority for resolving disputes within the Party.
Appeals
133. Any member of the Party aggrieved by a decision taken against him by National Executive Committee of the Party shall have the right to appeal to the BOT within 30 days of receiving the decision of the National Executive Committee.
134. The BOT is the final arbiter for all disputes within the Party.
Disciplinary Procedure
135. The National Executive Committee is empowered to determine cases of minor complexities on behalf of the Party.
136. Where the offence(s) in question are serious, a Disciplinary Committee shall be appointed by the National Executive Committee of the Party who shall adjudicate the matter, and determine what sanctions to impose on the erring Party member(s).
137. The National Legal Adviser of the Party, and not less than one other independent legal practitioner shall form part of the disciplinary Committee whenever the need to constitute one arises.
138. All proceedings shall be conducted in writing, except where the erring Party member is illiterate. In such cases, the proceedings shall be conducted orally. This may be by video conferencing.
139. Complaints may be submitted on the Party’s website, by email to any of the National Executive Committee members, by letter to the National Headquarters, or given to any of the Party officials from Ward to National level.
140. Notwithstanding other provisions relating to the discipline of Party Members, only the National Executive Committee, and the BOT shall proceed against and discipline members of the Party.
PART VII
FUNDING
141. The Party’s resources shall be centrally organised, so that all inflow to the Party is controlled at the National level, and from there disbursed to the other organs of the Party.
142. There shall be bank accounts in the Nigerian Naira, and in major currencies of the world to be maintained for the Party within Nigeria in accordance with the extant laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
143. Funding for the Party may be obtained by any legal means including –
a. Dues and levies from members of the Party who are elected into public office on the Party’s platform;
b. Proceeds from investments of the Party;
c. Subventions;
d. Donations ;
e. Gifts and grants from individuals, and/or groups of individuals; within the constitutional laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria;
f. Loans obtained by the National Executive Committee; and
g. All such other monies as may be lawfully received by the party in Nigeria which is not in contravention of the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
144. Membership subscription fee is not payable by members of the Party.
145. Fees for production of membership cards, criminal background checks, and screening of members, shall be prescribed from time to time, and communicated to members of the Party via the Party’s website by the National Executive Committee.
146. Elected officers who come into office through the platform of the Party shall pay such dues as shall be prescribed and levied on them by the BOT.
147. The Party shall not charge fees or sell nomination forms to candidates who seek to contest general elections in Nigeria on the Party’s platform.
Party Bank Accounts
148. The party shall maintain Bank Accounts at banks which operate at the Federal Capital Territory, and which have branches in major towns and villages in Nigeria.
149. The National Executive Committee shall decide the banks to use, and shall be the only organ of the Party authorised to open accounts for and on behalf of the Party.
150. The National Executive Committee shall determine the signatories to Party accounts at the Ward, LGA, and State levels depending on the needs of the Party.
151. By this Constitution, the authorised signatories to all Party Accounts across the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be one, or all of the following Party officers –
a. The National Chairman;
b. The National Secretary; and
c. The National Treasurer.
Borrowing Power of the Party
152. The National Executive Committee is authorised without restrictions to borrow money and/or money’s worth for, and on behalf of the Party, from any legal source, for the purpose of carrying out the Party’s aims and objectives.
AUDIT COMMITTEE
153. There shall be an Audit Committee for the Party, to consist of –
a. A member of the Party who is not in the Leadership of the Party at any level, who is a Chartered Accountant of repute and unquestionable integrity. They shall be the Chairman of the Audit Committee, and shall be appointed by the National Chairman of the Party;
b. The Party Leader;
c. The Party National Chairman;
d. Six members of the Party in the Leadership of the Party who have recent accounting experience, to be drawn from each of the six geopolitical zones, and appointed by the National Chairman of the Party;
e. Six members of the BOT who are not officers of the BOT to be drawn from each of the six geopolitical zones, and appointed by the National Chairman of the Party.
f. The National Treasurer of the Party; and
g. The National Auditor of the Party.
Functions of the Audit Committee
154. The Audit Committee shall be responsible for –
a. Monitoring the budget and expenditure of the Party to ensure transparency and prudence at all levels;
b. Monitoring and reviewing the effectiveness of the Party’s internal book keeping, accounting systems, and internal audits;
c. Reviewing the Party’s performance by comparing the Party’s expenditure against the positive value added to the Communities the Party engaged, and the number of persons returned into elected public offices in Nigeria;
d. Recommending auditors, or firms of auditors for appointment as Independent External Auditors of the Party, to the National Executive Committee;
e. Approving remuneration and terms of engagement of the external auditor, or audit firm for the National Executive Committee;
f. Advising the National Executive Committee on whether the annual reports and accounts of the Party taken as a whole is fair, balanced, and understandable. And whether they provide the information necessary for Party members to assess the Party’s position, performance, strategies and models; and
g. Reporting to the National Executive Committee on how it has discharged its responsibilities to the Party.
REMUNERATION COMMITTEE
155. There shall be a Remuneration Committee for the Party, to consist of –
a. A member of the Party who is not on the Leadership of the Party, who is a reputable, experienced, Human Resources Manager of unquestionable integrity. They shall be the Chairman of the Remuneration Committee, and shall be appointed by the National Chairman of the Party;
b. The National Deputy Chairman of the Party;
c. Six members of the Party in the Leadership of the Party who are successful entrepreneurs with at least 10 years of experience leading medium to large sized corporations. They shall be drawn from each of the six geopolitical zones, and appointed by the National Chairman of the Party;
d. Six members of the BOT who are not officers of the BOT who are successful entrepreneurs with at least 10 years of experience leading or managing departments in medium to large sized corporations. They shall be drawn from each of the six geopolitical zones, and appointed by the National Chairman of the Party.
e. The National Treasurer of the Party; and
f. The National welfare officer of the Party.
Functions of the Remuneration Committee
156. The remuneration committee shall be responsible for –
a. Determining and setting the fixed remuneration of Party officers and senior employees of the Party;
b. Designing schemes for immediate and deferred performance related remuneration of Party officers at all levels, and for all senior employees, and staff of the Party;
c. Setting compensation for all Party officers;
d. Setting compensation including pension benefits for senior employee and staff;
e. Determining and setting fringe benefits and incentives for senior Party officers, senior employees and staff.
LIABILITY OF THE PARTY
157. The Party shall be a body corporate with perpetual succession, therefore it can sue or be sued. It can acquire, hold and alienate property in Nigeria. It can enter agreements and do all things necessary within legal limits to carry out its obligations, aims and objectives. It can defend its members, its property and its reputation. The Party is however not a human person, therefore it shall act through its National Executive Committee, particularly through its National Chairman who is the Party’s Chief Executive Officer.
158. Only the National Executive Committee shall through the National Chairman and persons duly authorised by them have the authority to create any legal relationship which is binding on the Party.
LANGUAGE AT MEETINGS
159. The language to be used at meetings shall be the English Language
EMPLOYEES AND STAFF
160. Employees and staff of the Party shall be subject to the direct control and discipline of the Party officers in the National, State, Local Government Area and Ward levels depending on the designation of the employees and staff.
161. Employees and staff of the Party shall be bound by the provisions of this Constitution, the rules and regulations of the Party, and the decisions of the National Executive Committee and other authorised organs of the Party.
162. Employment in the Party is strictly open only to members of the Party.
163. Any employee or staff of the party who acts in a manner likely to bring contempt or ridicule to the Party or its officers, who takes part in insubordinate activities against the Party, or its officers, shall be immediately relieved of his or her duties as an employee of the Party where found guilty of such offence by the relevant Party organ.
164. Employees and Staff may not seek nomination to contest any election on the Party’s platform, unless they resign their appointment one month to the date of the election.
165. The remuneration and conditions of service of employees and Staff of the Party shall be set by the Remuneration Committee, and implemented by the relevant Party officers at the Ward, LGA, State and National levels.
AMENDMENTS
166. The party shall have the power to amend this constitution, save that no amendment of the constitution shall be valid unless made by a motion passed by a two-third majority of members present and voting at the National Convention.
167. The Notice of the proposed amendment to the Constitution shall be given to the National Secretary, at least two months before the date of the National Convention.
168. The notice shall be in writing, and shall contain a clear statement of the amendment sought and the reasons for the amendment.
169. The National Secretary upon receipt of the notice shall publish it on the Party’s website, and circulate copies to all members of the BOT, and all State Chairmen of the Party at least one month before the date of the National Convention.
OATH OF OFFICE
170. The Party shall not require oaths of office from its members. However, all persons elected or appointed into office to serve the Party, and all persons elected for nomination to contest elections into public positions in Nigeria, shall subscribe to the Undertaking provided in Schedule II to this Constitution. This is a prerequisite for taking up any office to serve the Party, and for getting the nomination and endorsement of sole candidacy on the Party’s platform, to the Independent National Electoral Commission, or equivalent authorities. The Undertaking shall be signed before a Commissioner for Oaths, or a Notary Public.
DISPUTE RESOLUTION
171. In the event of any dispute arising within the Party, including disputes between members of the Party and the leadership of the Party in respect to actions of the Party, in respect to this Constitution or any matter relating thereto, including the interpretation and application of this Constitution, the following shall apply:
a. The disputants shall endeavour to go through the Party organs responsible for the leadership of the Party including the Disciplinary Committee, the National Executive Committee, the National Convention, other organs or committees set up for the purpose of resolving internal Party disputes, and the BOT.
b. If within a period of 30 days of commencement of discussions, review or evaluation of the decision or action under dispute by the BOT, an amicable settlement is not reached, the disputant(s) must first refer the matter to a mediator appointed under the rules of the Abuja Multi Door Courthouse (the “Centre”).
c. If within 30 days of filing the official forms for instituting the mediation, the disputant(s) and the Party still fail to reach amicable settlement of the dispute, the matter shall be referred to arbitration under the rules of the Centre.
d. The venue for any mediation or arbitration shall be the Centre.
INTERPRETATION
172. Any question as to the meaning of any section of this constitution or the Schedule hereto shall be referred to the National Executive Committee whose interpretation of the same shall be final.
173. In this Constitution the following apply –
a. Gender neutrality, so that “he”, “his”, “she”, “her”, “chairman”, “they”, etc. include both genders.
b. “Founding Members” mean members of NIP as listed on the register printed out on the 10th Day of February 2017;
c. “Verified Members” mean members who have submitted their birth records and legal identification documents to the Party for review;
d. “Quorate” means the quorum for decision making has been reached.
e. “Quorum” means the number of people who must be present for decisions made to be binding;
f. “Disputants” means Party officers, members, staff or employees who are dissatisfied with decisions handed down by relevant Party organs;
g. “Vote of No Confidence” means that the person in whom the relevant position of responsibility was vested is considered unfit to continue in that position;
h. “Online” means through the use of the internet;
i. “Virtual” means existing or happening but not physically;
j. “Offensive Materials” shall include but not be limited to any type of media or communication which is capable of inciting hate or violence towards others, which is obscene, pornographic, indecent, tribalistic, derogatory to or of any religion or religious body etc.;
k. “Youth” means persons between the ages of 15 and 30 years
l. “National Convention” – The largest meeting of the Party at the National level, and the highest authority of the party;
m. “National” – refers to the Federal level as contained in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999;
n. “LGA” – This refers to the Local Government Area as defined by s.7 and Schedule 2 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999;
o. “Ward” – This refers to the area delineation of the Local Government Area by the Independent National Electoral Commission;
p. “May” – This shall be interpreted to be optional
q. Where computation of any figure in this Constitution results in a fraction, the figure obtained shall be approximated upwards to the nearest whole number.
SCHEDULE I
CRITERIA FOR CONTESTING ELECTION UNDER THE PARTY’S PLATFORM.
Any member of the Party may apply to contest for election under the party platform provided that –
1. They are not members of any political parties in Nigeria;
2. They have attained the age of 21 years;
3. They have completed a University Degree or its equivalent in work experience;
4. They consent that the Party conducts enhanced criminal and character background checks on them in Nigeria, and in every country they have lived in for a period of 2 years or more;
5. They have no criminal convictions against them;
6. They have not been adjudged to be lunatic or of unsound mind;
7. They are not sentenced to death by any court in Nigeria;
8. Depending on their resumes, they have a track record of service and leadership in their communities, schools, business or work environments, organisations they are, or have been associated with etc.;
9. They have led very clean lives so that –
a. They do not belong to, and have never been associated with any secret societies or cults;
b. They have never been charged with offences involving dishonesty or fraud;
c. Even where they have not been charged or convicted, they have not been involved in illegal conducts such as drug trafficking, obtaining by false pretences, human trafficking, violence against vulnerable people such as women, children, the elderly, the disabled etc.;
10. They have not led, been involved with, or supported any secessionist groups gearing support for the separation of Nigeria;
11. They are not, and have never been involved with, or supported terrorist organisations at any level in Nigeria and/or any country in the world;
12. They have not committed, or supported crimes against humanity or genocide;
13. They are not undischarged bankrupts, and have not been declared bankrupt over the past 10 years;
14. They do not have any court judgements against them for non-payment of debts.
Applicants who are checked against all the listed points and found suitable, shall be invited for a peer interview following which they shall be cleared to contest election at any level under the Party’s platform.
SCHEDULE II
UNDERTAKING TO SERVE
I,_____________________________________, hereby undertake to be faithful and to bear true allegiance to the NATIONAL INTEREST PARTY.
I shall faithfully discharge my duties to the Party, and to the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the best of my ability, and in accordance with the Constitution of the Party and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
I shall act always with integrity, and in solidarity for the advancement, well-being and prosperity of the Party and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
I shall strive to pursue, and achieve the aims and objectives of the party as contained in the Constitution and Manifesto of the Party.
I shall not allow my personal interest influence my official decisions for the Party, or my decisions for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
I shall in all circumstances do right by the members of the Party, and the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in accordance with the law without fear or favour, affection or ill-will.
I shall not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal to any person any matters which shall be brought to my attention or which shall become known to me as an officer of the Party, and/or as an officer of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, except as may be required for the due discharge of my duties.
I shall devote myself to the service and well-being of the people of Nigeria, and should I decide to change my political party or political allegiance in the future, I shall resign my position so as to allow the Party field another candidate to replace me.
Download our Constitution as a
- docx file here – NIP CONSTITUTION
- PDF file here – NIP CONSTITUTION