UNIMAID Alumni rejects inaugural constitutional amendment

By Abubakar Yunusa

The University of Maiduguri Alumni Association FCT chapter has condemned the gross violation of the association’s constitution and established protocols at the inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the University Association held over the weekend.

The chapter noted that there is a disregard in article 5(1) of their association’s constitution which unequivocally asserts the inherent right of every member to participate in all activities of the association.

Unfortunately, numerous members were unjustly denied entry to the AGM.

The Association’s Publicity Secretary for the FCT Chapter, Musa Ibrahim Musa, in a statement shared with journalists, on behalf of its members, said the annual general meeting aims to foster active participation and facilitate networking.

“This approach aims to foster active participation, facilitate networking, and encourage collective contributions toward the association’s growth and members’ development.

Ibrahim explained that professional associations like the Nigerian Bar Association and the Nigerian Society of Engineers typically hold their Annual General Meetings (AGMs) as open forums for all members.

He said, “This unfortunate decision emanated from directives issued by the Acting National President, who authorized a notice less than 48 hours before the AGM, stipulating that only five (5) members from each chapter would be granted access.

“This course of action effectively disenfranchised a significant portion of our membership from participating and exercising their right to vote on matters of critical importance, such as amendments to the association’s constitution.

“These actions not only run counter to the spirit of our current constitution but also cast doubts on the legitimacy of the quorum formation, as mandated by Article 8(3C) of the Association Constitution 2012.”

“Consequently, it seems contradictory that members would be excluded and denied access to the meeting venue of their beloved association.

In light of the concerning and egregious violations of our association’s constitution and established protocols that occurred at the Inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM),.

“We, as dedicated members of the University of Maiduguri Alumni Association, must stand together with unwavering resolve.

“While we may be deeply disheartened by the undemocratic and unconstitutional acts of the Board of Trustees and the Acting National Executive Committee, let us remember that our strength lies in our unity and commitment to the principles that underpin our association.

“In this trying moment, we must remain calm, composed, and resolute as the Vice Chancellor of our Alma mater, Professor Aliyu Shugaba, and other distinguished Alumni members are currently looking into the issue.

“We shall take every necessary step to rectify these violations and uphold the integrity of our beloved association. Our commitment to fairness, transparency, and the democratic process remains unshaken.

“Let us not be discouraged but instead let our passion for the values of the University of Maiduguri Alumni Association fuel our determination to bring about positive change.

“We must come together, engage in dialogue, and work tirelessly to ensure that our association operates in a manner consistent with our constitution and the principles of democracy and the rule of law,” Ibrahim said.