The University of Maiduguri Alumni Association FCT chapter has expressed concerns about the recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the University Association, noting deviations from the association’s constitution and established procedures.
The chapter pointed out a discrepancy with Article 5(1) of their constitution, which guarantees the right of all members to participate in the association’s activities. Unfortunately, several members were denied entry to the AGM.
Musa Ibrahim Musa, the Association’s Publicity Secretary for the FCT Chapter, clarified that the AGM is intended to encourage active involvement, networking, and collective contributions to the association’s growth and members’ development.
Ibrahim also highlighted that professional associations like the Nigerian Bar Association and the Nigerian Society of Engineers generally hold open AGMs accessible to all members.
He explained that the decision to limit access to only five members from each chapter, made less than 48 hours before the AGM, prevented a significant portion of the membership from participating and exercising their right to vote on crucial matters, such as constitutional amendments.
These actions not only contradict the association’s current constitution but also raise questions about the legitimacy of quorum formation, as per Article 8(3C) of the Association Constitution 2012.
In response to these violations of the constitution and established protocols, the University of Maiduguri Alumni Association members are standing united.
While deeply disheartened by these undemocratic acts, they remain committed to the association’s values and principles. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Aliyu Shugaba, and other distinguished alumni members are looking into the issue.
They pledge to take necessary steps to rectify these violations and uphold the integrity of the association, emphasizing their commitment to fairness, transparency, and the democratic process.
In this challenging moment, they call for unity, dialogue, and tireless efforts to ensure the association operates in accordance with its constitution, democracy, and the rule of law.
