Intro
Table of Content
Preamble
Article 1 Name of Party
Article 2 Supremacy of the Party Constitution
Article 3 Motto
Article 4 Slogan
Article 5 Flag
Article 6 Symbol
Article 7 Aims and Objectives
Article 8 Secretariat
Article 9 Membership
Article 10 Party Organization
Article 11 Party Organs
Article 12 Composition of Party Organs
Article 13 Powers of Party Organs
Article 14 Powers of National Officers
Article 15 Other Officers (National and Others)
Article 16 Party Administration
Article 17 Tenure of Office
Article 18 Standing and Ad-hoc Committees
Article 19 Duties and Functions of the Standing and Ad-hoc Committees
Article 20 Elections and Appointments
Article 21 Discipline of Party Members
Article 22 Party Finance
Article 23 Bank Account
Article 24 Audit and Account
Article 25 Meetings
Article 26 Quorum
Article 27 Venue of Meetings
Article 28 Common Seal
Article 29 Oath of Office
Article 30 Amendment
Article 31 Omnibus Provisions
Article 32 Interpretation
ARTICLE 33 Definitions
SCHEDULE I Oaths
CONSTITUTION OF THE ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS (APC)
PREAMBLE
WE the true progressives and patriots determined to render service at all levels of governance; and to build a nation which will guarantee equal opportunity for all, mutual and peaceful co-existence, respect and understanding, eliminating all forms of discrimination and social injustice among Nigerians, rendering selfless service that will rekindle a deep sense of patriotism and nationalism; hereby make, enact and give the following constitution to ourselves for effective governance of our Party and promotion of its ideals, aims and objectives.
ARTICLE 1:
NAME OF THE PARTY
There shall be a Political Party called, addressed and known as ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS, with the abbreviation APC hereinafter referred to as the ‘Party”.
ARTICLE 2:
SUPREMACY OF THE PARTY CONSTITUTION
Subject to the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and any other Laws for the time being in force in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the provisions of this Constitution shall be supreme PROVIDED that where any Rule, Regulation or any other enactment of the Party is inconsistent with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, such a Rule, Regulation arid Enactment shall, to the extent of its inconsistency, be null and void and of no effect whatsoever,
ARTICLE 3:
MOTTO: JUSTICE, PEACE AND UNITY
ARTICLE 4:
SLOGAN: CHANGE
ARTICLE 5:
FLAG: The flag of the party shall be green, white (in which a broom held hand imposed) and sky blue, all of which are placed on a red base in Which APC white painted acronym is inscribed.
ARTICLE 6:
SYMBOL: The flag of the party with a hand held broom on the white portion.
ARTICLE 7:
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:
The aims and objectives of the Party shall be:
To promote and foster the unity, political stability and national consciousness of the people of Nigeria.To promote true federalism in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.To organize Chapters of the Party throughout the Federal Republic of Nigeria and beyond.To sponsor eligible candidates and canvass for votes for election into all elective offices in all tiers of government.To consciously pursue the implementation of the policies and programmes of the Party, through those of its members that are appointed or elected into government, legislative houses and Boards throughout the Federation.To evolve, develop and promote an economic policy direction which guarantees public participation in, and where necessary, control of the major means of production, distribution and exchangeTo protect the interest of farmers, workers women, youth and persons with Disabilities in Nigeria and to faithfully strive to obtain for them the greatest Possible return for their labour and full participation in the Nigerian enterpriseTo promote and Uphold the practice of internal democracy at all levels of The Party’s organizationTo institutionalize maintain and foster representative democracy, discipline and strict observance of Rule of Law in the Federation of Nigeria.To Co-operate with any Political or other organization whose aims and objectives are in harmony with those of the Party and in Conformity with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.To actively Condemn and resist all forms of oppression and exploitation of NigeriansTo promote social, Political and economic freedoms and the general welfare of the people, with a View to Permanently ensuring the establishment of peace, freedom, dignity of labour, equity, fraternity and happiness for all the people of Nigeria.To foster and defend the freedom of the Press and the fundamental freedoms and human rights of all Nigerians and the people of the world in general.To pursue a dynamic foreign policy aimed at:Friendly and reciprocal relations with other countries,Good governance and democratic freedom for people of African descent and all other oppressed peoples throughout the world,Promotion of cultural values of black peoples all over the world; andMaintenance of international peace, harmony and cooperation.To work consciously to promote the development of science, technology and local expertise.To do anything ancillary or conducive to tie promotion of the aforementioned aims and objectives.
ARTICLE 8:
SECRETARIAT
The registered office of the party shall be located in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria WHILE other offices in the State Capitals, Local Government Areas Headquarters, Wards and other places shall be determined by the APPROPRIATE Executive Committee and approved by the National Executive Committee.
ARTICLE 9:
MEMBERSHIP:
9.1 Eligibility/Registration
Membership of the Party shall be open to any citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who has attained the age of 18 years and who accepts the aims and objectives of the Party, provided that such a person is not a member of any other political party or any organization whose policies and programes are inconsistent with those of the Party.Application for membership shall be made to and cleared by the Ward Executives of the Party in the Ward of the Local Government Area where the person was born, resides, works or originates. On-line registration shall also be acceptable provided that it is cleared by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Party.Where an application is refused, the applicant may as of right appeal to the Local Government Area Executive Committee of the Party or to the National Secretary or National Chairman, in case of on-tine registration.Upon enrolment, every member shall pay the prescribed fees and shall be issued with a Membership Card and a Dues Card.Rules and ObligationsMembers of the Party shall be obliged to affirm the Party’s aims and objectives and conduct themselves in a manner that shall not bring the party to public odium and disrepute. Members of the party shall also observe the rules and regulations embedded in this Constitution.Members shall pay, as at and when due, all dues and levies as may be prescribed by any organ of the Party authorized so to do.Members shall participate in the activities of the party e.g. election campaigns, rallies, fund raising, functions, meetings, etc.
9.3 Rights and Privileges
Only fully registered and financially up-to- date members of the Party shall have the right to vote and be voted for into any of the elected positions, subject to the provisions made for such elections pursuant to this Constitution or other Laws or Regulation Consequently nonfinancial members shall not enjoy the above rights.Subject to (i) above, members shall enjoy the privileges of the Party and shall be entitled to be appointed to any committee of the Party on the approval of the Executive Committees of the Party at the various levels.Register of MembersA Register of members shall be compiled and maintained at the Ward level and be transmitted to the Secretariat of the Party at the Local Government Area, Which shall transmit a copy to the State Headquarters, which in turn shall transmit a copy to the National Secretariat provided that the Party shall update its membership records every six months and remit Updated copies to appropriate Secretariats thereafter it shall be the responsibility of a member to ensure that his or her name is duly entered in the Ward Register.Where a group or association joins the Party, the Party shall welcome the group or association, but each member of such group or association shall register individually at their respective Wards.Where eligible persons for membership of the Pay numbering THIRTY (30) or more reside any country outside Nigeria, they may establish a chapter of the party and shall enjoy full benefits of membership.For the purpose of obtaining the approval of the National Executive Committee, such interested members shall appropriately be registered by the National Secretariat of the Party and proper congress for the election of officers conducted by the National SecretariatTownship and other local meetings shall only be recognized by the National Executive Committee approved Diaspora chapterCessation of MembershipMembership of the Party shall be terminated by death, resignation or expulsion or by procurement of membership of another political party or accepting political appointment from any political party or opposition government.Upon resignation or expulsion, a member shall be legally obliged to return to the Party all its properties in his or her possession.
ARTICLE 10:
PARTY ORGANIZATION
There shall be seven levels of Party organization namely;The Polling UnitThe WardThe Local Government Area/Area CouncilThe Senatorial DistrictThe StateThe ZoneThe NationalEach of these levels shall have a functional secretarial except the Senatorial District and Polling Unit.
ARTICLE 11:
PARTY ORGANS
The Party shall have the following fourteen Principal Organs:National ConventionBoard of TrusteesNational Executive CommitteeNational Working CommitteeZonal CommitteeState CongressState Executive CommitteeState Working CommitteeSenatorial District CommitteeLocal Government Area/Area
OTHER BODIES
The Party shall have the following other bodies:Board of TrusteesNational CaucusZonal CaucusState CaucusLocal Government Area/Area Council Caucus
ARTICLE 12:
COMPOSITION OF PARTY ORGANS
The Party organs listed in Article 10 above shall be composed as follows:
12.1 National Convention
Members of the Board of Trustees;National Chairman and all Members of the National Executive Committee;Serving and past Presidents and Vice Presidents of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who are Members of the Party;Serving and past Governors and Deputy Governors of States of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who are members of the Party;Serving and past members of the National Assembly who are members of the Party, serving and past Speakers, Deputy Speakers and other principal officers of the State Houses of Assembly, and all serving members of the State Houses of Assembly who are members of the Party.Members of the States’ Working Committee (including that of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja) of the Party;All Party Chairmen and Secretaries of the Local Government Areas/ Area Councils of the country;All elected Local Government Council/Area Council Chairmen of the country who are members of the Party;Three elected delegates (at least one of whom must be a woman) from each Local Government Area/Area Council of the country.
12.2 Board of Trustees
Composition
The Board of Trustees shall be composed as follows:
Past and serving Presidents and Vice Presidents of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who are members of the Party;Past and serving Senate Presidents and Deputy Senate Presidents of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who are members of the Party;Past and serving Speakers and Deputy Speakers of the House of Representative who are members of the Party.Past and serving Governors of States in the Federal Republic of Nigeria who are members of the Party.Past National Chairmen and Chairmen of Board of Trustees (BOT) of Political Parties who have produced a past President, Senator(s), Member(s) of House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Governor(s) of State(s) of the Federation or Member(s) of House(s) of Assembly of State(s) of the Federation and are members of the Party, subject to approval by the National Executive Committee (NEC).Past and serving National Chairman produced by the Party.Serving National Secretary of the Party.Two serving Senators from each geopolitical zone of the Country who are members of the Party to be nominated by the Senators from such zone.One Member nominated by each State/Federal Capital Territory Executive Committee for consideration, and subsequent recommendation by the National Working Committee to the National Executive Committee for approval;One woman from each geo-political Zone of the Country nominated by the Zonal Committee for consideration, and subsequent recommendation by the National Working Committee to the National Executive Committee for approval;Any other person(s) nominated by the National Working Committee and approved by the National Executive Committee to represent identified interests.Qualification/Eligibility for Membership
Pursuant to Article 12.2 (A) above, a registered party member shall be eligible for appointment into the Board of Trustees if he or she:
Has not been Convicted by a Court of Competent Jurisdiction for an offence involving or dishonesty;He/She has not been adjudged to be a lunatic or otherwise declared to be of unsound mind Under any Law in force in any part of Nigeria;He/She has not been adjudged or declared bankrupt;Has not been dismissed from Public Service of the Federation; State and Local Government Area/Area Council or impeached/removed from public office.He/She is a person of proven integrity, impeccable character and verifiable track record of service to humanity in the Country,
12.3 National Executive Committee
There shall be a National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Party consisting of:
National ChairmanDeputy National Chairman (North)Deputy National Chairman (South)National SecretaryDeputy National SecretarySix National Vice Chairmen, one from each Geo political zone of the Country (to be also known as Zonal Chairmen)National Legal Adviser;Deputy National Legal AdviserNational Treasurer;Deputy National Treasurer;National Financial Secretary;Deputy NationalNational Organizing Secretary;Deputy National Organizing Secretary;National Publicity Secretary;Deputy National Publicity SecretaryNational Welfare SecretaryDeputy National Welfare SecretaryNational AuditorDeputy National AuditorNational Women LeaderDeputy National Women LeaderNational Youth LeaderDeputy National Youth LeaderSpecial (Physically Challenged) LeaderZonal SecretaryZonal Youth LeaderZonal Organizing SecretaryZonal Women LeaderStates’ Chairmen of the PartyThe President and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who are members of the PartyPresident of the Senate and Deputy
President of the Senate who are members of the Party
Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives who are members of the PartyGovernors of the States of the Federation who are members of the PartyMajority or Minority Leader, Party Whip and their Deputies in the Senate and House of Representatives who are Members of the PartyTwo serving Senators from each geo-political zone of the country, who are members of the Party, to be nominated by the Senators from such zoneThree members of the House of Representatives from each geo-political zone of the country who are members of the Party to be nominated by members from such zoneSix Ex-Officio members, of whom, one each shall be elected by the National Convention from each of the six geo-political zones of the Country;Serving Chairman, Deputy Chairman and Secretary of the Board of Trustees (BOT).
12.4 National Working Committee
There shall be a National Working Committee (NWC) of the Party consisting of:
National ChairmanDeputy National chairman (North)Deputy National Chairman (South)National SecretaryDeputy National SecretarySix (6) National Vice Chairmen, one from each geo-political zones of the Country (to be also known as Zonal Chairmen)National Legal AdviserNational TreasurerNational Financial SecretaryNational Organizing SecretaryNational Welfare SecretaryNational Publicity SecretaryNational AuditorNational Women LeaderNational Youth LeaderSpecial (Physically Challenged) Leader
12.5 National Caucus
There shall be a National Caucus of the Party consisting of
National ChairmanDeputy National chairman (North)Deputy National Chairman (South)National SecretaryNational Legal AdviserNational TreasurerNational Organizing SecretaryNational Women LeaderNational Youth LeaderSpecial (Physically Challenged) LeaderPast and Present Presidents and Vice Presidents of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who are members of the Party;Current Presidential and Vice Presidential Candidates of the Party;Past and Present Senate Presidents and Deputy Senate Presidents who are members of the PartyPresent and past Speakers of the House of Representatives and Deputy Speakers who are members of the PartyServing Majority or Minority Leader, Whips and their Deputies in the Senate and House of Representatives who are members of the Party;Past and present Governors of the States of the Federation, who are members of the Party;Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) who is a member of the Party;Chairman, Deputy Chairman and Secretary of Board of Trustees of the Party;Former National Chairmen and National Secretaries of the Party who are members of the Party;Such other members as may be co-opted or appointed by the National Executive Committee (NEC)
12.6 The Zonal Executive Committee (ZEC)
There shall be for each of the six geo-political zones of the country, a Zonal Executive Committee consisting of:
Zonal Chairman (National Vice Chairman)Zonal SecretaryZonal Legal AdviserZonal Organizing SecretaryZonal Publicity SecretaryZonal Women LeaderZonal Youth LeaderSpecial (Physically Challenged) LeaderAll States’ Chairmen from the zoneThe President and the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who are members of the party from the zonePast and present Governors and Deputy Governors of the States within the zone who are members of the Party.All members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) from the zone;All serving and past members of the National Assembly who are members of the Party from the zone;All serving and past Speakers and Deputy Speakers of the State Houses of Assembly who are members of the party from the zone.All members of the Board of Trustees (BOT) from the zoneAll members of the National Caucus from the zone
12.7 The State Congress
There shall be for each state Chapter of the Party, State Congress Consisting of:
Members of Board of Trustees from the State;State Chairman and Members of the State Executive Committee;State Governor and Deputy Governor who are members of the PartyAll serving and past Members of the National Assembly who are members of the Party from the StatesAll Members of the National Executive Committee from the State;All serving and past members of the State Houses of Assembly who are members of the Party from the State;All elected Local Government Areas/Area Councils Chairmen and Deputy Chairmen who are members of the Party;All elected Councilors of Local Government Areas/Area Councils who are members of the Party from the State;Chairmen and Secretaries of the Party in the Local Government Areas of the State/ Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja;Five delegates per ward (at least, one of whom shall be a woman); elected at the Ward Congress who shall cease to function after the conclusion of the State Congress for which they were elected.Members of the Zonal Executive Committee (ZEC) from the State;All Political Office Holders if not elected as delegates may attend as Observers.
12.8 The State Executive Committee (SEC)
There shall be for each State Chapter of the Party a State Executive Committee (SEC) consisting of:
State ChairmanDeputy State Chairman.State SecretaryState Assistant SecretaryThree Zonal Vice Chairmen (one from each Senatorial District)State Legal Adviser.State Assistant Legal AdviserState TreasurerState Assistant TreasurerState Financial Secretary.State Assistant Financial SecretaryState Organizing SecretaryState Assistant Organizing SecretaryState Publicity SecretaryState Assistant Publicity SecretaryState Welfare SecretaryState Assistant Welfare SecretaryState AuditorState Assistant AuditorState Women LeaderState Assistant Women LeaderState Youth LeaderState Assistant Youth LeaderSpecial (Physically Challenged) LeaderSenatorial Youth LeaderSenatorial Women LeaderFour Ex-.Officio members (at least one of whom shall be a woman and at least one from each Senatorial District of the State)Governor and Deputy Governor of the state who are members of the Party.Speaker, Deputy Speaker and other Principal Officers of the House of Assembly who are members of the Party.All other Statutory Members of the National Convention from the State.
12.9 The State Caucus
There shall be for each State Chapter of the Party, a State Caucus consisting of:
Serving and past State Party Chairmen of the Party;Serving and past State Party Deputy Chairman of the Party;Serving and past State Secretaries of the Party;Serving and past State Governors and Deputy Governors who are members of the Party;Current Gubernatorial and Deputy Gubernatorial Candidates of the Party;Serving and past members of the National Assembly who are members of the party;Principal Officers of the State House of Assembly who are members of the Party;Secretary to the State Government (SSG) who is a member of the Party;State Party Treasurer;State Women Leader;State Youth Leader;Special (Physically Challenged) Leader;State Party Legal Adviser;Past Speakers and Deputy Speakers of the State House of Assembly who are members of the Party;All members of National and Zonal Executive Committees from the State.All National and Zonal Caucus members from the state.Such other members not exceeding six (two from each senatorial District of the State) as may be co-opted or appointed by the State Executive Committee.
12.10 The State Working Committee
There shall be for each State Chapter of the Party a State Working Committee (SWC) consisting of:
State ChairmanDeputy State ChairmanState SecretaryState Assistant Secretary3 Vice Chairmen (one from each Senatorial District)State Legal AdviserState TreasurerState Financial SecretaryState Organizing SecretaryState Publicity SecretaryState Welfare SecretaryState AuditorState Women LeaderState Youth LeaderSpecial (Physically Challenged) Leader
12.11 Senatorial District Committee
There shall be for each of the Three Senatorial Districts of a state, a Senatorial District Committee consisting of:
Senatorial District Chairman (State Vice Chairman)Senatorial District SecretarySenatorial District Legal AdviserSenatorial District Organizing SecretarySenatorial District Publicity SecretarySenatorial District Women LeaderSenatorial District Youth LeaderSpecial (Physically Challenged) LeaderAll Local Government Area/Area Council Party Chairmen from the Senatorial DistrictThe Governor and the Deputy Governor of the state elected on the platform of the Party from the Senatorial DistrictPast and present Local Government Council/Area Council Chairmen and Deputy Chairmen within the Senatorial District who are elected on the platform of the Party.All members of the National and State Executive Committees of the Party from the Senatorial DistrictAll serving and past Members of the National and State Assembly from the Senatorial District who are members of the Party;All members of the BOT from the Senatorial DistrictAll members of the National Caucus from the Senatorial District
12.12 The Local Government Area and Area Council Congress
There shall be for each Local Government Area and Area Council Chapters of the Party, a Local Government Area/Area Council Congress consisting of:
All Members of the Local Government Area/Area Council Executive Committee;All Members of the Ward Executive Committee in the Local Government Area/Area CouncilChairmen and Councilors of the Local Government/Area Council who are Members of the Party;Five Delegates, at least one of whom shall be a woman, from each Ward of the Local Government Area/Area Council ejected at the Ward Congress who shall cease to function after the Local 4`Government Area/Area Council Congress for which they were elected.All statutory Members of the State Congress from the Local, Government Area/Area Council.
12.13 The Local Government Area Executives Committee
There shall be for each Local Government Area and Area Council Chapters of the Party, a Local Government Area and Area Council Executive Committee consisting of:
Local Government Area/Area Council Party ChairmanLocal Government Area/Area Council Deputy Party ChairmanAll Ward Party Chairmen in the Local Government Area/Area CouncilLocal Government Area/Area Council Party SecretaryLocal Government Area! Area Council Assistant Party SecretaryLocal Government Area/Area Council Party Legal AdviserLocal Government/Area Council Assistant Party Legal AdviserLocal Government Area/Area Council Party TreasurerLocal Government Area/Area Council Assistant Party Treasurer.Local Government Area/Area Council Party Financial SecretaryLocal Government Area/Area Council Party Assistant Financial SecretaryLocal Government Area/Area Council Party Publicity SecretaryLocal Government/Area Council Party Assistant Publicity SecretaryLocal Government Area/Area Council Party Welfare SecretaryLocal Government Area/Area Council Party Assistant Welfare SecretaryLocal Government Area/Area Council Party Organizing SecretaryLocal Government Area/Area Council Party Assistant Organizing SecretaryLocal Government Area/Area Council Party AuditorLocal Government/Area Council Party Assistant AuditorLocal Government Area/Area Council Party Women LeaderLocal Government Area/Area Council Party Assistant Women LeaderLocal Government Area/Area Council Party Youth LeaderLocal Government Area/Area Council Party Assistant Youth LeaderSpecial (Physically Challenged) LeaderFour Ex-officio Members elected by the Congress (one of whom shall be a woman)All members of the State Executive Committee who are from the Local Government Area/Area Council.
12.14 The Local Government Area/Area Council Caucus
There shall be for each Local Government Area/Area Council Chapter of the Party, a Local Government Area and Area Council Caucus consisting of:
Local Government Area/Area Council Party ChairmanLocal Government Area/Area Council Party Vice ChairmanLocal Government Area Council/Area Council Chairman and Deputy Chairman who are Members of the PartyCurrent Local Government Council/Area Council Chairmanship and Deputy Chairmanship Candidates of the PartyLocal Government Area/Area Council Party Secretary;Local Government Area/Area Council Councilors who are Members of the Party;Local Government Area/Area Council Party TreasurerAll Ward Party ChairmenLocal Government Area/Area Council Women LeaderLocal Government Area/Area Council Youth LeaderSpecial (Physically Challenged) LeaderSuch other members not exceeding six (spread equitably across the Wards) as may be co opted or appointed by the Local Government Area/Area Council Executive Committee of the Party;All statutory members of the State Caucus from the Local Government Area/Area Council.
12.15. The Ward Congress
The Ward Congress shall comprise all Officers and registered Members of the Party in the Ward. The Ward Congress shall be Summoned by the Ward Executive Committee from time to time as may be required.
12.16. The Ward Executive Committee
There shall be for each Ward Chapter of the Party a Ward Executive Committee consisting of:
Ward ChairmanWard Vice ChairmanWard SecretaryWard Assistant SecretaryWard Legal AdviserWard Assistant Legal AdviserWard TreasurerWard Assistant TreasurerWard Financial SecretaryWard Assistant Financial SecretaryWard Organizing SecretaryWard Assistant Organizing SecretaryWard Publicity SecretaryWard Assistant Publicity SecretaryWard Welfare SecretaryWard Assistant Welfare SecretaryWard Women LeaderWard Assistant Women LeaderWard Youth LeaderWard Assistant Youth LeaderSpecial (Physically Challenged) LeaderWard AuditorWard Assistant AuditorCouncilor of the Ward who is a Member of the PartyFour Ex-Officio members elected at Ward Congress (one of whom shall be a woman)
12.17 The Polling Unit Committee
There shall be in each Polling Unit, a Polling Unit Committee Consisting of:
Polling Unit ChairmanPolling Unit Deputy ChairmanPolling Unit SecretaryPolling Unit Assistant SecretaryPolling Unit TreasurerPolling Unit Assistant TreasurerPolling Unit Women MobilizerPolling Unit Assistant Women MobilizerPolling Unit Youth MobilizerSpecial (Physically Challenged) MobilizerAll Members of the National, State, Local Government Area! Area Council and Ward Executive Committee from the Polling Unit.
ARTICLE 13
POWERS OF PARTY ORGANS
National Convention:
The final authority of the Party shall rest with the National Convention which shall have the powers to:
Ratify policies and programmes of the Party;Elect or remove the national officers of the Party;Elect the Presidential Candidate of the Party;Receive reports from the National Executive Committee and from any other Committee and or organ of the Party; and take appropriate decisions on the reports and or recommendations;Amend the Constitution of the Party from time to time as the need may arise;Delegate any of its powers to the Board of Trustees, National Executive Committee or to any other organ of the Party;Take any action as may be conducive to the promotion of the aims and objectives of the Party as laid down in this Constitution;Appoint External Auditors to audit the Party’s accounts for its consideration;Exercise such other powers and authority as are vested in it by this Constitution;Ratify the minimum rate of annual subscription to be paid by Members and the proportion of income from subscriptions to be remitted to the National Office of the Party,
13.2 Board of Trustees
Powers and Tenure
POWERS
The Board of Trustees shall:
Be the embodiment of the Conscience, the soul and the sanctity of the Party and shall be the mirror of the highest standard of morality in the Party and shall intervene in all disputes and crisis in the Party to ensure its stability at all times;Hold all the properties of the Party in trust for the Party and shall serve as custodian of such assets;Advise on, and when Considered necessary initiate policies for the guidance of the Party;Act as Arbitrators and Mediators in disputes and ensure the enforcement of discipline in accordance with the Constitution of the Party;Promote reconciliation encourage and facilitate the settlement of disputes in an amicable manner among members of the Party.Ensure that peace and tranquility prevail in the Party and when necessary intervene to restore absolute peace;Convene the National Convention of the Party with the concurrence of two thirds (2/3) of its membership, where there is any situation that prevents the National Executive Committee from functioning;Regulate its own proceedings and shall draw up a Code of Conduct for its members and public/Party Office Holders to observer;Perform any other functions assigned to it by the National Convention;Elect its Chairman, Deputy Chairman, Secretary and other officers as it deems necessary, and formulate its own Rules and procedures to regulate its meetings and activities;Have powers to delegate any of its functions to its Committee(s) or any other organ of the Party;TENUREThe Board of Trustees shall be in office for a period of four (4) years subject to renewal for another four years.The Chairman of Board of Trustees shall hold office for a non-renewable period of two (2) years after which the Office shall devolve to another geo-political Zone of the Country provided that the Chairman shall not come from the same Zone where the President and or the National Chairman of the Party comes from,In the event of the occurrence of a vacancy in the Board, it shall be filled by the National Executive Committee on the recommendation of the State Executive Committee from where the vacancy arose, through the National Working Committee.
13.3 National Executive Committee
The National Executive Committee of the Party shall be the Principal Executive body of the Party and shall perform the following functions:
Summon or convene the National Convention and prepare its agenda;Discharge all functions of the National Convention as constituted in between National Conventions;Decision of the National Executive Committee shall be binding on all organs and all, members of the Party, except the National Convention;Consider reports from National, State and Local Government Area/Area Councils Chapters of the Party and take such decisions as are necessary to protect, advance, and consolidate the gains and interests of the Party;Exercise control and take disciplinary actions on all organs, officers and members of The Party and determine appeals brought before it by any member or organ of the Party;Create, elect and appoint any Committee it may deem necessary, desirable or expedient and assign to them such Powers and functions as it may deem fit and Proper;Examine the actions taken or legislation proposed or passed by any Government, Legislative House or Local Government Area/Area Council and determine what further actions the Party should take;Secure at all elections the return of as many Party candidates as Possible, so as to generally have control of the Legislative and Executive arms of Governments in the Federation, States and Local Government Areas/Area CouncilRaise adequate funds for the management and sustenance of the Party;Ratify the type, nature and membership of Standing Committees to be set up by the National Working Committee;Approve the national budget of the Party;The National Executive Council shall have the power to set up a caretaker committee in place of any organ that there exists in the opinion of the National Working Committee a lacunae by virtue of any act or omission done in furtherance of this Constitution.
13.4 The National Working Committee
The National Working Committee shall be responsible for the Administration of the Party and putting into effect the decisions of the National Executive Committee. To that end, the National Working Committee shall carry out the day to day running of the affairs of the Party. It shall in particular:
Prepare the agenda for the National Convention subject to ratification by the National Executive Committee.Prepare and submit reports and budgets for consideration of the National Convention subject to the ratification of the National Executive Committee;provide financial guidelines for the approval of the National Convention subject to the ratification of the National Executive CommitteePropose policies and programmes for the Party, which shall be considered by the National Executive Committee and approved by the Board of Trustees;Propose to the National Executive Committee, Party electoral Regulations, to govern the conduct of elections to all Party offices at every level and to govern the Procedure for selecting Party candidates for elective offices, subject to the provisions of this Constitution;Invite such person(s) as it deems necessary, desirable or expedient, to attend meeting(s) and take part in deliberations provided that such invited person(s) shall have no voting right;Have power to make Standing Orders for the approval of the National Executive Committee and ratification by the Board of Trustees;Deal with any other matters referred to it by the National Executive Committee or the Board of Trustees;Deal with appeals and other problems referred to it by the State Working Committee, and or coming from the zones and states of the Federation;Establish Ad-hoc and, or Standing Committees of the Party and appoint members to such Committees;Examine the actions, policies and programmes pursued and legislations made by the Governments of the Federation from time to time in order to determine whether or not they are in accordance with the manifesto and the Constitution of Party and if not to make recommendations to the National Executive Committee for its action;Recommend for approval by the National Executive Committee, the proportion of income from subscription from each Ward, Local Government Area/Area Council and States that shall be remitted to the National Office.Nominate for appointment, Members of Board of Trustees for the ratification of the National Executive Committee.Organize Primary Election for the nomination of its Presidential Candidates, Governorship Candidates and Candidates for election into the National and State Assemblies.Subject to the approval of the National Executive Committee, the National Working Committee may in special circumstances grant a waiver to a person not otherwise qualified under Article 31 of this Constitution if in its opinion, such a waiver is in the best interest of the Party.The National Working Committee shall have power to set up a caretaker committee in place of any organ that there exists in the opinion of the National Working Committee a lacunae by virtue of any act or omission done in furtherance of this constitution.Such caretaker committee so set up shall have a defined tenure of 90 days and renewable upon a further review by the National Executive Committee for another 90 days
13.5 Zonal Executive Committee
The Zonal Executive Committee shall meet to transact any or all of the following:
Represent the National Executive Committee in the Zone and assist in resolving all political and organizational matters affecting the Zone.Coordinate Party activities at the Zonal level.Guide and advise the State Executive Committees on ways and means of strengthening the Party within the Zones.Perform such other advisory and consultative functions as may he assigned by the National Executive Committee.
13.6 State Congress
The State Congress shall
Approve the budget of the Party in the State.Elect officers of the State Executive Committee.Receive reports of the Officers of the Party.Receive and consider the Auditors Report.Delegate any of its powers to the State Executive Committee or State Working Committee.
13.7 State Executive Committee
The State Executive Committee shall:
Identify the issues (political, social and economic) of concern to the State,Generally administer the Party in the State and implement the decisions of the State Congress or directives from the National Executive Committee and the National ConventionPrepare for ratification by the State Congress the annual budget.Prepare the agenda of the State Congress.Consider Reports from Local Government Area Chapters of the Party and take such decisions that are necessary to protect, advance and Consolidate the gains and interest of the Party within the StateExercise control and take disciplinary actions on all organs, officers and members of the Party and determine appeals brought before it by any member or organ of the Party with in the State.Create, elect and appoint any Committee(s) it may deem necessary, desirable or expedient and assign to them such powers and function as it may deem fit and proper within the State provided that the functions of such Committee(s) shall not conflict with any Committee(s) set up by the National Executive Committee or the National Working Committee.Secure at all elections the return of as many Party Candidates as possible so as to generally have control of the Legislative and Executive arms of Governments within the State.Raise adequate funds for the management and sustenance of the Party within the State.
13.8 The State Working Committee
The State Working Committee shall be responsible for the Administration of the Party and putting into effect the decisions of the State Executive Committee. To that end, the State Working Committee shall carry out the day-to-day running of the affairs of the Party. It shall:
Prepare the agenda for the State Congress subject to ratification by the State Executive CommitteePrepare and submit reports and budgets for consideration of the State Congress subject to the ratification of the State Executive Committee;Deal with appeals and other problems referred to it by the Local Government Area Working Committee and or coming from the Senatorial Districts and Wards of the State;Invite such person(s) as it deems necessary, desirable or expedient, to attend meeting(s) and take part in deliberations provided that such invited person(s) shall have no voting right;Deal with any other matters referred to it by the State Executive Committee or the State Congress;Establish Ad-hoc and, or Standing Committees of the Party and appoint members to such Committees within the State, provided that such Committees shall not conflict with the Committees set up by the National Executive Committee and the National Working Committee respectively;Examine the actions, policies, legislations and programmes made and pursued by the Local Government Areas of the State and Area Councils from time to time, in order to determine whether or not they are in accordance with the manifesto and the Constitution of Party, and if not to make recommendations to the State Executive Committee for its action;Organize Primary Elections for the nomination of Local Government Area Chairmanship Candidates Vice Chairmanship Candidates and Councilors for election into the Local Government Council/ Area Council, in accordance with guidelines approved by the National Executive Committee (NEC)
13.9 Senatorial District Committee
The Senatorial District Committee shall meet to transact any or all of the following:
Represent the State Executive Committee in the District and assist in resolving all political and organization matters affecting the District,Coordinate Party activities at the District level.Guide and advise the State Executive Committee on ways and means of strengthening the Party with in the District.Perform such other advisory and consultative functions as may be assigned by the State Executive Committee,
13.10 The Local Government Area Congress
The Local Government Area Congress Shall
Elect Members of the Local Government Area/Area Council Executive Committee of the Party.Elect Local Government Party Delegates to the State Congress and the National Convention.Approve the budgets for the running of the Party at the Local Government Area! Area Council Levels.Receive Auditors Report.
13.11 The Local Government Area Executive Committee shall
Identify the main issues, (political, social and economic) of concern to the Party in the Local Government Area/Area Council.Receive the reports from the Constituent Wards on;Membership driveFund Raising activitiesStrategies for political campaigns electoral success.Mobilization of voters.Receive directives and materials and distribute same to all Wards and ensure their effective utilization,Provide strategies for effective communication between the Wards and the Local Government Areas/Area Councils.Be responsible for the general administration of the Party in Local Government Area/Area Councils.Put into effect decisions of Government Area/Area Council Congresses and other organs of the partyEmploy and determine the conditions of service (including discipline) of all Secretariat staff of the Party in the Local Government Area/Area Council.
13.12 The Ward Congress
The Ward Congress shall
Approve the budget for the Ward,Elect members of the Ward Executive Committee.Elect Ward delegates to the Local Government Area/Area Council and State Party Congress.Receive reports from the officers of the Ward.Undertake any other business in the interest of the Party within the Ward
13.13 The Ward Executive Committee
The Ward Executive Committee shall
See to the day-to-day running of the Party.Raise funds for the day-to-day running of the Party and other functions,Engage in membership driveDraw up strategies for political campaign.See to the mobilization of voters.Put into effect decisions of Ward Congresses and other organs of the
Party.
Perform such other functions as may be in the interest of the Party
13.14: Polling Unit Committee
The Polling Unit Committee shall:
Be responsible for ensuring the success of the Party at all elections.Carry out such assignments as may be given by the Ward Executive Committee.
ARTICLE 14:
POWERS OF NATIONAL OFFICERS
14.1 National Chairman
The National Chairman shall:
Be the Chief Executive, Accounting Officer and shall preside over the meetings of the National Executive Committee and the National Working Committee of the Party;Provide good and effective leadership to the Party;Uphold the Constitution and defend the name, policies and programmes of the Party;Be a signatory to the accounts of the Party;Direct the due execution of the programmes of the Party;Give lawful directives to all officers, organs, and members of the Party at all levels;Have a casting vote in the event of a tie in the meetings of the Party over which he presides;Ensure the implementation of the directives of all superior organs of the Party, namely the National Convention, the Board of Trustees, the National Executive Committee, the National Working Committee and the National Caucus;Perform such other functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Convention, Board of Trustees, National Executive Committee and/or the National Working Committee.
14.2 Deputy National Chairmen, North/South
The Deputy National Chairmen shall:
Assist the National Chairman in the discharge of his duties.Perform such functions as may be assigned to him, from time to time by the National Executive Committee and National Working CommitteeShall act as the National Chairman in the absence of the National Chairman from his Zone.
14.3 National Secretary
The National Secretary shall:
Supervise the day-to-day activities at the National Secretariat under the general direction of the National Chairman.Cause to be issued as directed, notices of meetings of the National Convention, the National Executive Committee and tie National Working Committee of the Party.Cause to be kept all records and books of proceedings of the National Convention, the National Executive Committee and National Working Committee of the Party;Render a written annual report of the activities of the Party to the National Executive Committee;Carry out any other duty as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Convention, the Board of Trustees, the National Executive Committee, the National Caucus, the National Working Committee, and the National Chairman;Be a co-signatory to the Party’s Account(s).Serve as the Secretary of all statutory meetings of the Party, which he attends.
14.4 Deputy National Secretary
The Deputy National Secretary shall:
Act for -the National Secretary in his absence.Assist the National Secretary in the discharge of his duties,Perform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Secretary or the National Chairman,
14.5 National Vice Chairman (Zonal Chairman)
Shall assist the National Chairman and the Deputy National Chairman in the discharge of his duties within his geopolitical Zone,Shall perform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Executive Committee and National Working Committee.
14.6 National Treasurer
The National Treasurer shall:
Receive and promptly not later than 24 hours pay into the Party’s accounts all monies received for and on behalf of the Party.Ensure prudent management of Party funds.Prepare and submit a yearly statement of account to the National Executive Committee,Be a signatory to the accounts of the Party.
14.7 Deputy National Treasurer
The Deputy National Treasurer shall assist and deputise for the National Treasurer in his absence.Shall perform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Treasurer and or National Chairman and National Working Committee.
14.8 National Financial Secretary
The National Financial Secretary shall:
Collect all monies due to the Party and pay such monies to the National Treasurer not later than 24 hours after the collection.Prepare and submit proposals for raising Party funds for the consideration of the National Working Committee,Ensure that proper account and records are kept and cause such books to be produced for inspection as may be required.Shall be co-signatory to the accounts of the Party.
14.9. Deputy National Financial Secretary
The Deputy National Financial Secretary shall assist and deputise for the National Financial Secretary in his absence.Shall perform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Financial Secretary and or National Chairman and National Working Committee.
14.10. National Publicity Secretary
The National Publicity Secretary shall be responsible for dissemination of Party’s information, promotional services and activities all of which must be consistent with the Party’s Constitution, manifesto and policies.Shall perform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Executive Committee and National Working Committee.
14.11 Deputy National Publicity Secretary
The Deputy National Publicity Secretary shall assist and deputise for the National Publicity Secretary in his absence.Shall perform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Publicity Secretary and or National Chairman and National Working Committee.
14.12 National Welfare Secretary
The National Welfare Secretary shall:
Be responsible for protocols and logistics of the Party,Promote the welfare of the members of the Party generally.Perform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Executive Committee and National Working Committee.
14.13. Deputy National Welfare Secretary
The Deputy National Welfare Secretary shall:
Assist and deputise for the National Welfare Secretary in his absence,Perform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Welfare Secretary and National Working Committee.
14.14. National Organizing Secretary.
The National Organizing Secretary shall:
Initiate programmes for the mobilization of Party members, devise appropriate strategies for elections and co-ordinate all field activities for the Party,Make periodic reports on the state of mobilization of the Party to the National Working Committee,Shall perform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the Board of Trustees, The National Executive Committee and The National Working Committee.
14.15 Deputy National Organizing secretary
The Deputy National Organizing Secretary shall:
Assist and deputise for the National Organizing Secretary in his absence.Perform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Organizing Secretary and or National Chairman and National Working Committee,
14.16. National Auditor
The National Auditor shall
Audit the books of account of the Party annually and report accordingly to the National Working Committee which shall in turn transmit same to the National Executive Committee.In conjunction with the External Auditors, present the audited accounts of the Party to the National Convention annually.From time to time examine the books of accounts of the Party.
14.17 Deputy National Auditor
The Deputy National Auditor shall:
Assist and deputise for the National Auditor in his absence,Perform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Auditor and or National Chairman and National Working Committee.
14.18 National Legal Adviser
The National Legal Adviser shall:
Advise the Party on all legal mattersArrange for all litigation and legal defence on behalf of the Party, including its organs, officials and assets in so far as the subject of litigation pertains to the Party’s interest.Give legal opinion on all Laws, Regulations and the Constitution of the Party in the event of ambiguities.Shall be qualified to practice Law under the Legal Practitioners Act.Shall be the Legal Adviser to the Board of Trustees.
14.19. Deputy National Legal Adviser
The Deputy National Legal Adviser shall
Assist and deputise for the National Legal Adviser in his absence,Be qualified to practice Law under the Legal Practitioners Act.Perform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Legal Adviser and or National Chairman and National Working Committee.
14.20. National Women Leader
Be responsible for the mobilization of women,Initiate and implement strategic programmes that will endear the party to Nigerian women in consultation with the Zonal and State Women Leaders as approved by the Party.Perform such functions as may be assigned to her from time to time to the National Executive Committee and National Working Committee.
14.21 Deputy National Women Leader
The Deputy National Women Leader shall:
Assist and deputise for the National Women Leader in her absence.Perform such functions as may be assigned to her from time to time by the National Women Leader and or National Chairman and National Working Committee.
14.22 National Youth leader
The National Youth Leader shall:
Be responsible for mobilization of Youths for the attainment of Party objectives.Initiate and implement strategic programmes that would endear the party to Nigerian Youths in consultation with the Zonal and State Youth Leaders as approved by the PartyPerform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Executive Committee and National Working Committee.
14.23 Deputy National Youth Leader
The Deputy National Youth Leader shall:
Assist and deputise for the National Youth Leader in his absence.Perform such functions as may be assigned to him from time to time by the National Youth Leader and or National Chairman and National Working Committee.
14.24 Special (Physically Challenged) Leader:
The Special (Physically Challenged) Leader shall:
Serve as a link between the Party and people with special needs.Carry out any other duty as may be assigned to him by the Party’s Executive Committee.
ARTICLE 15:
OTHER OFFICERS
OTHER ELECTED NATIONAL OFFICERSThe other elected National Officers of the National Executive Committee shall perform such functions as may be assigned to them from time to time bythe National Chairman.All officers at the various levels of the party are accountable to the office of the chairman.
OFFICERS AT OTHER LEVELS
Subject to the express provision(s) of this Constitution all other officers at the Zonal, State, Local Government Area/Area Council and Ward levels shall have the same powers and functions at their respective levels as prescribed for National Officers provided that Legal Advisers at all levels shall as far as practicable be Legal Practitioners.
ARTICLE 16:
PARTY ADMINISTRATION
The day-to-day administration of the Party shall be carried out by Directorates to be headed by officials who shall be responsible to the National Secretary of the Party.
The Directorate of Organization shall be headed by a Director and shall be responsible for the organization of the Party’s activities at all levels.The Directorate of Publicity shall be headed by a Director who shall be responsible for a positive image of the Party at all levels.The Directorate of Administration shall be headed by a Director who shall attend to personnel and other administrative matters.The Directorate of Finance shall be headed by a Director who shall attend to all financial matters,Directorate of Research, Planning and Strategy shall he headed by a Director who shall deal with research, Planning, strategy and intelligence matters.Directorate of Social Welfare shall be headed by a Director who shall be responsible for the Welfare of the members of the Party.All officials of the Directorate shall be appointed by the appropriate Executive Committee.The salaries and other conditions of service of officials shall be decided by the appropriate Executive Committee, which shall have powers to employ and discipline any official.
ARTICLE 17:
TENURE OF OFFICE
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 (4) years and shall be eligible for re-election or re-appointment for another period of four (4) years only, provided that an Officer elected or appointed to fill a vacancy arising from death, resignation or otherwise shall notwithstanding be eligible for election to the same Office for two termsNo member shall serve in the same office for more than eight (8) years continuously, except a member of the Board of Trustees or a person who first came to the office by filling a vacancy.No Member can be an Officer at the National and State levels or National Organ of the Party concurrently, other than being an ex-officio member of that organ.No officer in any organ of the Party shall hold executive position office in government concurrently.Subject to ratification by the National Convention or Congress an Officer shall be relieved of his post at any time if a vote of “No Confidence” is passed on him by two-thirds of members of the relevant Party organ.Pursuant to this Constitution, where a vote of “No Confidence” has been passed on an Officer, the relevant Party organ shall appoint another person to act in his place pending ratification by the National Convention or Congress.
ARTICLE 18:
STANDING AND AD-HOC COMMITTEES:
The National Executive Committee shall have power to set up Standing Committee(s) and, where necessary, Ad-hoc Committees.Pursuant to Article 17(1) above, the Party shall have the following Standing Committee(s) and an Ad-hoc Committee(s) among others whose membership shall be proposed by the National Executive Committee and ratified by the Board of Trustees.
Standing Committees
Finance Committee(a)Publicity Committee(s)
Ad-hoc Committees
Screening/Selection Committee(s)The State, Local Government Area and Ward Executive Committees may set up Standing and Ad-hoc Committee(s) at the State, Local Government Area and Ward levels of the Party.Where the National Executive Committee has set up a Standing or Ad-hoc Committee(s) or has assumed jurisdiction on any issue, no organ of the Party shall deliberate upon and or set up a similar or parallel Committee.
ARTICLE 19:
DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE STANDING AND AD-HOC COMMITTEES:
Finance Committee(s):
The Finance Committee shall be headed by the National Treasurer as Chairman and shall comprise a minimum of seven (7) members, including the National Financial Secretary, to be nominated by the National Executive Committee .and approved by the Board of Trustees and shall advise the Party on ways and means of generating funds and investing these for the Party in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.
Publicity Committee(s):
The Committee shall be headed by the National Publicity Secretary and shall comprise seven (7) members to be nominated by the National Executive Committee and approved by the Board of Trustees and shall advise the Party on arrangement of information, communication publication, public relations, mass media matters and community affairs
Screening and Selection Committee(s):
The Committee shall he headed by a Chairman and shall comprise of six (6) Members that shall be recommended by the National Executive Committee and ratified by the Board of Trustees,
The Committee shall:
Be responsible for the screening of Party aspirants for nomination or election into the following offices:PresidentVice PresidentGovernorsDeputy GovernorsMembers of the National and State Houses of AssemblyNational Officers of the PartyThe list of candidates elected at the Party Primary Election, Congresses and Conventions for the Offices mentioned in Article 19 (iii) (1) of this Constitution shall be forwarded after the disposal of any appeals to the Board of Trustees of the Party for ratification/confirmation as Candidates for National/ general elections or elected officers of the Party, whichever is applicable,Members of this Committee shall not be eligible to contest for any political/elective positions in the same election for which they are serving as members.
ARTICLE 20:
ELECTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS
Unless otherwise provided for:
All Party posts prescribed or implied by this Constitution shall be filled by democratically conducted elections at the respective National Convention or Congress subject, where possible, to consensus, Provided that where a Candidate has emerged by consensus for an elective position, a vote of “yes” or “no” by ballot or voice shall be called, to ensure that it was not an imposition which could breed discontent and crisis.Conduct of Primaries for NominationNomination of Candidates for Councillorship shall be by direct primary election conducted at the Ward level. For the purpose of this primary election, Party members in every Ward shall vote by open-secret ballot for the candidates of their choice where there is no consensus, provided that where a candidate has emerged by consensus for an elective position, a vote of “yes” or “no” should be called to ensure that it was not an imposition which could breed discontent and crisis.Nomination of Candidates for:Local Government Council/Area Council ChairmanState House of AssemblyHouse of RepresentativesSenateGovernorPresident
Shall be through direct of indirect primary election to be conduced at the appropriate level.
Procedure for Nomination of CandidatesFurther to Article 20 (iii) of this constitution, indirect primaries for the purpose of nominating a candidate shall be done at a designated venue for that purpose, by an Electoral College of delegates democratically elected by members of the Party from the various wards contained in the particular constituency at congresses.The number of Delegates required for each office shall be determined from time to time by the National Executive Committee.All statutory delegates to the National Convention shall be members of Electoral Colleges for all elections of which candidates are to be nominated.Voting at the Ward congress to elect the members of the Electoral college shall be by secret ballot and the contestant with the highest number of votes shall be announced as the winners accordinglyCriteria for Nomination:
An aspirant seeking nomination shall:
Be a financially up to date member and has paid all dues as and when due.Satisfy the requirement for eligibility to contest elections under the Constitution of the Party and that of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Electoral Act and any other extant Law or Regulation.Become the Candidate of the Party if he or she scores a simple majority of the valid votes cast at the Primary ElectionWithout prejudice to Article 20(u) and (iii) of this Constitution, the National Working Committee shall subject to the approval of the National Executive Committee make Rules and Regulations for the nomination of Candidates through primary elections. All such Rules, Regulations and Guidelines shall take into, consideration and uphold the principle of Federal Character, gender balance, geo-political spread and rotation of offices, to as much as possible ensure balance within the constituency covered.
ARTICLE 21:
DISCIPLINE OF PARTY MEMBERS
POWER TO DISCIPLINE:
Subject to the provisions of this ARTICLE and the right to Fair Hearing, the PARTY shall have power to discipline Party Members. The Power shall be exercised on behalf of the Party by the respective Executive Committee of the Party at all levels.
OFFENCES:
Offences against the Party shall include the following:
A breach of any provision of this Constitution;Anti-Party activities or any conduct, which is likely to embarrass or have adverse effect on the party or bring the party into hatred, contempt, ridicule or disrepute;Disobedience or negligence in carrying out lawful directives of the Party;Any act of impersonation of the Party Offices or its holders;Giving wrong information to any Organ of the Party or unauthorized publicity of a Party dispute without exhausting all avenues for settlement or redress within the Party;Fictionalization or creating parallel Party Organs at any level;Flouting the rules, regulations and decisions of the Party; engaging in dishonest practices, thuggery, continuously being absent from meetings to which he/she is invited without reasonable cause; carrying out anti-Party or other activities which tend to disrupt the peaceful, lawful and efficient organization of the Party or which are inconsistent with the Aims and Objectives of the Party;Carrying arms, offensive weapons or missile at a political rally or procession, Party meetings, Party Officers or voting centres other than in pursuance of a lawful duty;Any other conduct or act prohibited by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act, Electoral Guidelines or which by the Rules and Regulations of the Party, constitutes an offence;Filing an action in a Court of Law against the Party or any of its Officers on any matters relating to the discharge of the duties of the Party without first exhausting all avenues for redress provided for in this Constitution;In cases of alteration of Delegate lists, falsification of nomination results, and or tampering with the processes of internal democracy of the Party, the offender shall be liable to expulsion from the Party and be prosecuted.DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE:
The Procedure for the hearing and determination of complaints or allegations are as follows:
A complaint by any Member of the Party against a Public Office holder, elected or appointed, or another member or against a Party organ or officer of the Party shall be submitted to the Executive Committee of that Party at all levels concerned which shall NOT LATER THAN 7 days of the receipt of the complaint, appoint a fact-finding or Disciplinary Committee to examine the matter.The Executive Committee concerned shall not debate or discuss the complaint or allegation before sending it to the Disciplinary Committee or fact-finding Committee which shall hear, determine and cause its decision to be transmitted to the relevant Executive Committees of the Party concerned.The Executive Committee concerned upon receipt of the report of the fact finding or Disciplinary Committee shall not later than 14 days thereof either ratify or reject the decision of the fact-finding or Disciplinary Committee.The Executive Committee of the Party at the level where a complaint or allegation is made shall have original jurisdiction to her and determine such complaint or allegation provided that the assumption of jurisdiction by such Executive Committee shall not breach the rules of fair hearing.Where either the complainant or the Party against whom a complaint is made, makes out a prima facie case of bias, intimidation or undue influence or likelihood of same by the Executive Committee seized with original jurisdiction to hear and determine such a matter or a member thereof or where the complaint is against a Party organ at the level, making it impracticable to appoint a fact finding or Disciplinary Committee, such complaint shall be transferred to the appropriate organ seized with appellate jurisdiction to hear and determine such matter save in the case of allegation against the principal Officer(s) in the National Executive Committee of the Party making it unjust to allow such Principal Officer(s) to participate in the appointment of a Fact- finding or Disciplinary Committee, the National Executive Committee shall exclude such Principal Officer from the entire arbitral process.For the purpose of ARTICLE 21 of this Constitution:The Ward Executive shall be the adjudicatory body of first instance over complaint and or allegation from the Polling Unit level.The Local Government Area Executive Committee shall be the adjudicatory body of first instance over complaints or allegations from the Ward level.The State Executive Committee shall be the adjudicatory body of first instance over complaints or allegations from the Local Government Area! Area Council level.The Zonal Committee shall be the adjudicatory body of first instance over complaints or allegations from the State Chapter in the zone.The National Executive Committee shall be the adjudicatory body over complaints and allegations from the zonesAPPEALS
The right of appeal of an aggrieved member of the Party is hereby guaranteed.
The procedure for appeals shall be as follows:
Where a member is not satisfied with the decision of any of the adjudicatory organs of the Party, he or she shall have the right to appeal within 7 days of the decision to the immediate appellate body in the Party as prescribed in this Constitution.An appeal shall be determined by the appropriate appellate body within 14 days from the date of receipt of the appeal by the appellate body concerned.`Where a decision or action taken by an Organ of the Party is appealed against, the decision or action shall remain in force and binding until the appeal or appeals had been determined. The decision or action shall cease to be binding if the appellate body upholds the appeal.An appeal from the decision of the Ward Executive Committee, on a complaint originating from the Ward shall lie to the Local Government Area Executive Committee and thereafter to the Local Government Area Congress which decision shall be binding on the parties.An appeal from the decision of the Ward Executive Committee, as an adjudicatory body of first instance, on a complaint originating from the Ward shall lie to the Local Government Area Executive Committee and thereafter to the State Executive Committee which decision shall be binding on the parties.An appeal from the decision of the Local Government Area Executive Committee on a complaint originating from the Local Government Area Chapter shall lie to the State Executive Committee and thereafter to the Zonal Executive Committee which decision shall be binding on the Parties.An appeal from the decision of the State Executive Committee, as an adjudicatory body of first instance; on a complaint originating from the Local Government Area Chapter shall lie to the Zonal Executive Committee which decision shall be binding on the Parties.An appeal from the decision of the State Executive Committee on a complaint originating from the State shall lie to the Zonal Executive Committee and thereafter to the National Executive Committee which shall be binding on the Parties.An appeal from the decision of the Zonal Executive Committee, as an adjudicatory body of first instance, on a complaint originating from the State Chapter shall lie to the National Executive Committee and thereafter to the Board of Trustees which decision shall be binding on the parties;An appeal from the decision of the National Executive Committee on a complaint originating at the National level shall lie to the Board of Trustees and thereafter to the National Convention which decision shall be binding on the parties
PUNISHMENT OF ERRING MEMBERS:The Party shall have power to impose the following sanctions on members in accordance with the nature and gravity of their offence:Reprimand;Censure;Fine;Debarment from holding Party Office;Removal from Party Office;Suspension from the Party;Expulsion from the Party;Debarment from contesting Office on the Party platform.In appropriate circumstances the Party shall cause the prosecution of the Member or erstwhile member of the Party concerned.Where it is proposed to expel a member of the Executive Committee, political office holder, or a member of a Legislative House from membership of the Party, such a proposal shall be submitted to the National Executive Committee, which after deliberations on the matter may confirm or reject the proposal;A decision to expel a Member of the Party taken or confirmed by the National Executive Committee shall be submitted to the Board of Trustees for ratification;The National Executive Committee shall on receipt of the report of the fact- finding committee make a decision on the matter within fourteen (14) days;Any member who files an action in court of law against the Party or any of its officers on any matter or matters relating to the discharge of the duties of the Party without first exhausting the avenues for redress provided for in this Constitution shall automatically stand expelled from the Party on filing such action and no appeal against expulsion as stipulated in this Clause shall be entertained until the withdrawal of the action from Court by the Member;Each organ of the Party shall have power to remove a Party officer or officers as the case may be from office at that level for failing to discharge his/her responsibilities, neglect and dereliction of duty or misconduct during his tenure of office through a vote of no confidence passed against such officer/officers by a two-thirds majority of the members of the appropriate organ and voting subject to such officer’s right to fair hearing.
ARTICLE 22:
PARTY FINANCE
The Party shall derive funds from:
Subscription, fees, and levies on Members.Proceeds from investments.Subventions, donations, and fund raisingGifts and grants by Governments, individuals or groups of individuals as allowed by Law.Borrowing as approved by National Executive Committee. Any other lawful means.
ARTICLE 23:
BANK ACCOUNTS
The Party shall maintain bank account(s) in the headquarters or its various levels of organization, provided that where banking facilities are not available, the services of the Bank nearest to the city or town shall be utilized,The Executive Committee of that level of the Party shall decide the Bank(s) for such Account(s).The following Officers of the Party shall be joint and valid signatories to the Party’s Bank Account(s) and other financial transactions:The Chairman at each levelThe Secretary at each levelThe Treasurer at each levelThe Financial Secretary at each level
Financial instruments signed by the Chairman and any two of the other three signatories shall be redeemable.
ARTICLE 24:
AUDIT OF ACCOUNTS
The Executive Committee at State and National levels shall appoint a competent firm of auditors to audit the accounts of the Party annually and present the reports of the audited accounts at their respective Congresses.
ARTICLE 25:
MEETINGS
NATIONAL CONVENTIONThe National Convention of the Party shall be held once in Two (2) years at a date, venue and time to be recommended by the National Working Committee and approved by the National Executive Committee subject to the giving of the statutory notices to the Independent National Electoral Commission and at least fourteen (14) days notice given to members eligible to attend.Without prejudice to Article 25 (A)(i) of this Constitution, the National Executive Committee may summon an emergency National Convention at any time provided at least seven (7) days notice of the meeting shall be given to all members eligible to attend.The quorum for the meetings of the National Convention shall be one- third of its membership.The provision regulating the meetings of the National Convention shall apply mutatis mutandis to State Congresses, Local Government Area! Area Council Congresses and Ward Congresses.
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEThe National Executive Committee shall meet every quarter and or at any time decided by the National Chairman or at the request made in writing by at least two-third of the members of the National Executive Committee provided that not less than fourteen (14) days notice is given for the meeting to be summoned.Without prejudice to Article 25(B) of this Constitution the National Working Committee may summon an emergency National Executive Committee meeting at any time, provided that at least seven (7) days notice of the meeting shall be given to all those entitled to attend.Decisions at the meeting of the National Executive Committee shall be by simple majority of members present and voting.The quorum for the meetings of the National Executive Committee shall be one- third of its membership.The provision regulating the meetings of the National Executive Committee shall apply mutatis mutandis to Zonal Committee, State Executive Committee, Senatorial District Executive Committee Local Government Area/Area Council Executive Committee and Ward Executive Committee.NATIONAL WORKING COMMITTEEThe National Working Committee shall meet at least once every month on the request of the National Chairman.Without prejudice to the provision of Article 25(C)(i) the meeting of the National Working Committee may be summoned on a request made in writing by two-thirds of the Members of the National Working Committee at any time, provided that at least seven (7) days notice of the meeting shall be given to all those entitled to attend.Decisions at the meetings of the National Working Committee shall be by simple majority of Members present and voting.The quorum for the meetings of the National Working Committee shall be one- third of its Membership.The provisions in Article 25(C) of this Constitution shall apply mutatis mutandis to the State Working Committee and Local Government Area/Area Council Working Committee.ZONAL COMMITTEEThe Zonal Committee shall meet at least once every quarter.A Special or emergency Meeting of the Zonal Committee shall be held as and when necessary.Decisions at the meetings of the Zonal Committee shall be by simple majority of Members present and voting.The quorum for the meetings of the Zonal Committee shall be One-third of its Membership.The provisions of Article 25(D) of this Constitution shall apply mutatis mutandis to the Senatorial District meetings.POLLING UNIT COMMITTEEThe Polling Unit Committee shall meet every month and or at any other time decided by the Chairman or at the request of majority of its committee members, provided not less than two days notice is given for the meeting.Without prejudice to the provisions of Article 25(E)(I) the polling Unit Committee may summon an emergency Committee meeting at any time provided that at least 24 hours’ notice is given to members eligible to attend.Decisions at the meetings of the Polling Unit Committee shall be by simple majority of members present and voting.The quorum for the meetings of the Polling Unit Committee shall be by simple majority.GENERAL RULES FOR THE CONDUCT OF MEETINGS.No motion shall be entertained at a meeting unless at least three (3) days notice of such motion had been given in writing to the Secretary or to the Chairman, exceptA motion that any subject be deferred or referred to a Committee or some appropriate body.A motion for adjournment; andA motion proposing an amendment to some opinion or motion already presented at the same meeting;Every motion and amendment of any motion shall be seconded before discussion;A motion for amendment of any motion may be withdrawn at any time at the request of the mover;In urgent or emergency situations, the Chairman of a meeting shall have the discretion to dispense or not with the requirement to give notice of motion;Deliberations at a meeting shall be strictly on the subject matter(s) listed on the agenda of the meeting provided that general issues may be presented or discussed at the end of t h e main agenda except upon a duly notified motion, a fresh deliberation or debate on a matter already concluded shall not be permitted;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 Chairman;Any member who deviates from these rules or from the agenda of a meeting shall immediately be called to Order by the Chairman or by another Member raising a point of Order;The Chairman of a meeting shall have the power to ask any erring or offending member to leave the meeting;No member shall leave a meeting except with the permission of the Chairman;“Putting the question’ shall follow normal parliamentary procedure;Voting on any subject at a meeting shall be by show of hand or voice vote or by secret ballot as the Chairman may decide;Except as otherwise expressly provided for in this Constitution, decisions of any organ of the Party shall be taken by a simple majority of the members present and voting;Any elected officer at any level, who absents himself from a properly constituted meeting for three consecutive times, without reasonable cause for doing so, shall be liable to disciplinary action.
ARTICLE 26:
QUORUM
Except as otherwise expressly provided for in this Constitution, one-third of the members of any Organ of the Party shall constitute a quorum for a valid meeting.
ARTICLE 27:
VENUE OF MEETINGS
The venue for all meetings of the organs of the Party at all levels shall be as approved by the leadership of the Party or the organ at each level.
ARTICLE 28:
COMMON SEAL
There shall be a Common Seal of the Party which shall be in the custody of the National Secretary.
ARTICLE 29:
OATH OF OFFICE
Every Officer elected or appointed as an officer of the Party shall subscribe to the Oath of Office as provided in Schedule II to this Constitution before an appropriate Principal Officer of the Party as may be approved by the National Working Committee,
ARTICLE 30:
AMENDMENT
This Constitution and the Schedules’ hereto, can be amended only by the National Convention of the Party.Notice of any proposed amendment by any member or organ of the Party shall be given to the National Secretary at least twenty-one(21) days before the date of the National Convention. The notice, which shall be in writing, shall contain a clear statement of t h e proposed amendment and reasons thereof.Notice of proposed amendment(s) shall be served on the members of the National Convention at least fourteen (14) days before the date of the meeting at which the .proposed amendment is to be considered. Publication of the notice of the .proposed amendments in a National Newspaper shall be deemed to be sufficient Notice.The Constitution or any part thereof shall stand amended if a proposed amendment is supported by at least two thirds of the delegates present and voting.Where new positions and Offices are created as a result of the amendment of this Constitution, the relevant Executive Committee shall until the next Convention or Congress fill such positions and office in an interim capacity.
ARTICLE 31:
OMINIBUS PROVISIONS
Provided always that in pursuit of all the provisions herein contained in this Constitution, the following shall ensure that:
No person shall be eligible to contest for any Party position, or be nominated by the Party to be its candidate at any election, if the person is not a member of the Party.All nominations into elective offices shall be supported by a specified number of nominators from the relevant Constituencies as may be prescribed or provided for in the Party’s Electoral Guidelines.Any Party office holder interested in contesting for an elective office (whether party office or office in a general election) shall resign and leave office 30 days prior to the date of nomination or Party primary for the Office he or she is seeking to contest.WAIVER
Subject to the approval of the National Executive Committee, the National Working Committee may in special circumstances grant a waiver to a person not otherwise qualified under Article 31(1) of this Constitution if, in its opinion, such a waiver is in the best interest of the Party.
CONDITIONS FOR WAIVER
A person may be granted a waiver only on condition that
He or she has not been convicted by any court of competent jurisdiction for any criminal offence.He or she has applied for waiver in writing to the National Working Committee of the Party through his/her appropriate Ward, Local Government Area/Area Council, State, Federal Capital Territory and Zonal Committee.He or she has signed an undertaking to uphold and implement the manifesto of the Party in the event of winning the election.
ARTICLE 32:
INTERPRETATION
The Board of Trustees shall be the final authority as to the interpretation of any aspect of this Constitution and its Ruling shall be final.
ARTICLE 33:
DEFINITIONS
“Local Government Area” means Local Government Areas as created and delineated in the Second Column of Part Two of the Third Schedule of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended);“Area Council” means each of the administrative areas within the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.“Country” means the territory constituting the Federal Republic of Nigeria;“State” means as named in the First Column of Part One of the First Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and shall consist of the area shown opposite thereto in the Second Column of that Schedule;“Federation of Nigeria” means “Country”.“Senatorial District” means an area that has produced a Senator in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria;“Geopolitical Zone” means a geographical region of Nigeria namely North East; North West; North Central; South East, South West and South/South;“Zone” means Northern and Southern Nigeria“North” means the Nineteen (19) States in the Northern Part of Nigeria;“South” means the seventeen (17) States in the Southern Part of Nigeria;“Polling Unit” means an electoral Unit created by the Independent National Electoral Commission for the purpose of registration of voters and or voting“Primary’ Election” means an election conducted by the Party for purpose of the nominating its Candidate for a general election or specified election as may it ordered by the Independent National Electoral Commission.“Party Election” means any election held by the Party for the purpose of electing its officers to run the various organs of the Party;“Aspirant” means any person who has picked the Party’s nomination forms seeking to participate in either a primary or party election;“Candidate” means any person who has been nominated at a Primary or Party Election to contest at a General election;“Court” means any court created by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and by any subsisting legislation;“Appeal” means a complaint from an aggrieved person from decision of an organ of the Party;“National Assembly” means the two Houses of the National Assembly comprising the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria;“National and State Houses of Assembly” means the National Assembly and the Houses of Assembly in the 36 States in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.“Complaint” means grievance expressed whether orally or in writing.“Merging Party” means all the political parties that commenced the merger negotiations in February, 2013 that have given rise to this Party.“Youth” means a person between the ages of 18 years and 40 years.
SCHEDULE 1
OATH OF ALLEGIANCE
I,…………………………………………………………………… do solemnly swear/affirm that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Federal Republic of Nigeria and that will preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of All Progressives Congress and of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. So help me God.
OATH OF OFFICE
I,…………………………………………………………………… do solemnly swear/affirm that I shall be faithful and bear ‘true allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC) that as…………………………………….. of All Progressives Congress (APC), I will discharge my duties to the best of my ability, faithfully and in accordance with the Constitution of the Party and always in the interest of the integrity, solidarity, well-being and prosperity of the Party as contained in its Constitution and Manifesto; that I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official decisions; that I will to the best of my ability preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the party will do right to all the members of the party and to all manner of people according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will; that I will not directly or indirectly communicate or reveal to any person any matter which shall be brought under my consideration or become known to me as an officer of the party, except as may be required for the due discharge of my duties as office of the party, and I will devote myself to the service and well-being of members of the party and the people of Nigeria, So help me God God
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