TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREAMBLE: ……………………...... 2
ARTICLE 1: NAME ……………………………………… 2
ARTICLE II: THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE UDI-EZEAGU USA ………... 2
ARTICLE III: MEMBERSHIP …………………………………………………3
ARTICLE IV: FEES, DUES AND LEVIES …………………………………... 7
ARTICLE V: ELECTIONS AND ELIGIBILITY …………………………...8
ARTICLE VI: STRUCTURE OF UDI-EZEAGUUSA …………………… 8
ARTICLE VII: BOARD OF DIRECTORS ………… 9
ARTICLE VIII: OFFICERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS … 10
ARTICLE IX: GENERAL MEMBERSHIP..……… 11
ARTICLE X: EXECUTIVE COUNCIL ...………………………………...…… 12
ARTICLE XI: STANDING AND AD-HOC COMMITTEES ……………….... 15
ARTICLE X11: OFFICERS OF UDI-EZEAGUUSA: TERMS AND REMOVAL .17
ARTICLE XIII: OTHER ORGANS OF UDI-EZEAGUUSA ……………………18
ARTICLE XIV: CONVENTION AND MEETINGS …………………………..19
ARTICLE XV: FISCAL YEAR ……………………………………………....20
ARTICLE XVI: FUNDS, LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND AUDIT ……….20
ARTICLE XVII: SPECIAL HOMELAND PROJECT ……………………….21
ARTICLE XVIII:UDI-EZEAGUUSA LEGAL STRUCTURE ………………22
ARTICLE XIX: PRINCIPAL OFFICE ….…………………………………..…23
ARTICLE XX GRANTS TO OTHER ORGANIZATIONS (FOREIGN-OVERSEAS)23
ARTICLE XXI: PARLIMENTARY AUTHORITY …………………….………24
ARTICLE XXII: BY-LAWS …………………………………………………... 24
ARTICLE XXIII: AMENDMENT ………………………………………….… 24
UDI-EZEAGU CONSTITUTION (Review)
PREAMBLE
We the people of Udi-Ezeagu of Enugu State, Nigeria resident in the United States of America in recognition of our common ancestral, cultural, and civic affinities, and to strengthen, vitalize, purify, and regenerate those affinities for the promotion of our welfare, at home and abroad, hereby and hereon, come together to enact and adopt this constitution.
ARTICLE 1: NAME.
Section 1.1: Name
The Association shall be known and addressed as The Udi-Ezeagu USA.
Section 1.2: Supremacy Clause
Subject to the United States Constitution, local Acts, Statutes, and prevailing rules and regulations in the state in which Udi-Ezeagu is registered as a Non-Profit Corporation and the Uniform Non-Profit Corporation Act, the provisions of this Constitution shall take precedence over and above any other rules, regulations, or by-laws of the Udi-Ezeagu USA and, where any rule, regulation, by-law or any other enactment of the Udi-Ezeagu USA or any of its organs is inconsistent with the provisions of this Constitution, this constitution shall prevail.
ARTICLE II: THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE UDI-EZEAGU USA, INC.
Section 2.1: Purpose
The purpose for which Udi-Ezeagu USA is organized is charitable, educational, cultural, social, and scientific. Specifically they are as follows:
1.To unify Ndi-Udi-Ezeagu everywhere.
2.To provide a forum for mutual exchange of ideas and opportunities for the betterment of members of Udi-EzeaguUSA and Udi-Ezeagu people everywhere.
3.To promote and enhance the welfare of all Udi-Ezeagu people everywhere.
4.To promote and cultivate civic responsibility within EnuguState and elsewhere and to ensure fairness in service delivery to the citizens of EnuguState.
5.To promote cooperation and exchange of ideas between Udi-Ezeagu leadership in Enugu State, Nigeria and Udi-EzeaguUSA.
6.To promote harmony and peaceful co-existence among Udi-Ezeagu indigenes everywhere, their neighbors, and beyond.
7.To receive, invest, and hold property for any or all of the purposes for which Udi-Ezeagu USA was formed.
8.To maintain an up-to-date list and contact addresses of Udi-Ezeagu indigenes in the USA.
9.To enable Udi-Ezeagu indigenes resident in USA to contribute towards the continued development of our beloved towns within and Local Governments at Udi-Ezeagu of Enugu State, Nigeria.
10.To present a common front, and or, decision in all issues affecting Udi-Ezeagu people.
ARTICLE III: MEMBERSHIP
Section 3.1: Eligibility
Membership shall be open to all Udi-Ezeagu persons in the United States. Unless an individual expressly chooses to opt out of the Association, it is assumed that all persons known to be from Udi-Ezeagu by birth, marriage, adoption or naturalization are de facto members consistent with section 3.3 below.
Section 3.2: Definition
For purposes of membership, Udi-Ezeagu local chapter associations shall mean an association which brings together Udi-Ezeagu indigenes by birth, marriage, naturalization or adoption within a geographic area, metropolis or city. As used in this Constitution, the terms Udi-Ezeagu Organization, Member Organization orAffiliates are interchangeable. Local Chapter Organization and component organization are interchangeable.
Section 3.3: Membership Limitation
Consistent with the Udi-Ezeagu USA’s goal to promote the coming together of Ndi-Udi-Ezeagu everywhere, membership in Udi-EzeaguUSA shall be limited to one Udi-Ezeagu local chapter association for each geographic area, metropolitan area or city in the United Statesor limited to individual membership.
Categories of Membership:
1.All adults of Udi-Ezeagu indigenes from the age of twenty five (25) shall be a member through the local Udi-Ezeagu association within a geographic or metropolitan area or through the individual membership.
2.All Udi-Ezeagu women by marriage and all Udi-Ezeagu unmarried female adults shall be members consistent with Section 3.2 and 3.3 above.
3.All Udi-Ezeagu indigenes by naturalization or adoption shall be members.
4.All Udi-Ezeagu women by birth but married outside Udi-Ezeagu LGA’s are optional members.
5.All male adults who become Udi-Ezeagu indigenes by marriage are optional members.
6.All other persons or groups of non Udi-Ezeagu who subscribe to the purposes of Udi-EzeaguUSA may be eligible for membership.
Classes of membership shall be limited to:
1. Local associations
2. Individual
Section 3.5: Membership Obligations
Every affiliate or local organization is required to encourage their members to freely volunteer time, and talents in the service of the Association. In addition, every affiliate is required to be in compliance with all the rules and regulations, be up-to-date with dues, levies and fines as required by the Constitution, By-Laws, and all resolutions of the Association. Individual member is also required to comply with Section 3.5.
Section 3.6:Membership in Good Standing:
- Membership in good standing requires that the following conditions be met:
1. Members of Affiliates and Individual members shall freely volunteer their time and talents for the association.
- Members of Affiliates and Individual members shall comply with all rules, regulations, by-laws, and resolutions.
- Affiliates and Individual members shall not be indebted to the association in monthly/bi-monthly dues in an amount that exceeds three (3) monthly/bi-monthly dues,
- Affiliates and Individual members shall not be indebted to the association in levies, or fines in an amount not to exceed three (3) monthly/bi-monthly dues.
Section 3.7: General Membership Benefits
The opportunities and privileges of associating and interacting with one’s kith and kin are invaluable particularly in this part of the world. The benefits which members will derive from this Association may include but not limited to the following:
1.Access to a database of information on employment opportunities, internships, scholarships, professional seminars, business or career development opportunities, workforce development initiatives and business opportunities in the United States, Nigeria or elsewhere.
2.Quick access to people as well as resources in times of emergency.
3.Opportunity to develop mutual understanding and increased interaction among members, families and for our children to know themselves
4.Potential for scholarships and other forms of assistance to deserving members as well as children of members.
5.Solidarity amongst ones kith and kin.
6.Potential to foster and enrich our culture and traditional values.
7.Common decision in matters affecting Udi-Ezeagu and its people everywhere, Enugu and Nigeria.
8.Opportunity to participate in group life insurance, and other insurance discount programs available through Udi-EzeaguUSA
9.Opportunity to participate and enjoy other discount programs such as hotel, car rental, etc. available only through Udi-EzeaguUSA
10.To update members with information on developments in EnuguState particularly Udi-Ezeagu area.
These benefits will accrue to members in good standing and not in arrears of its financial obligations. The benefits may be amended or revised in time upon cost considerations in consonant with the needs of the general members.
Section 3.8: Manner of Admission to Udi-EzeaguUSA
An Udi-Ezeagu local organization desiring to become a Chapter of Udi-Ezeagu USA shall submit a written application and appropriate fee by certified mail to the National Financial Secretary. Upon receiving the application, the Membership and Mobilization committee shall conduct an investigation to determine whether the application meets the requirements for membership as provided in Article 3 of this constitution. The Committee shall report its findings to the Executive Council. The Executive Council shall consider the findings of the Membership and Mobilization Committee and shall decide whether or not the applicant should be approved for membership.
Section 3.9: Procedure for Accepting New Affiliate
Any organization desiring to join Udi-EzeaguUSA shall adhere to the following guidelines:
- Submit proof of its registration with the appropriate state authority, which shall include its Articles of Incorporation, By-Laws and Constitution. If the applicant is not incorporated or otherwise registered with a state authority, it shall provide appropriate proof of its existence
- Submit the following information: Official name of the organization, current address for the organization, name and contact information for the executive officers and members of the Board of Directors of the organization.
- Submit information regarding the list of the membership and demonstrate that the organization is the umbrella and representative Udi-Ezeagu Association in that geographical area, metropolis or city, as defined in Section 3.2 above.
- Submit any other information that would aid Udi-EzeaguUSA in making an informed decision as to whether the applicant meets the criteria for membership.
Section 3.10: Time Limit for Admitting or Rejecting an Organization’s Application
In the interest of fairness, the Association shall make a prompt review of an application in receipt within a reasonable time and then render a decision on whether to admit the underlining organization or not within three (3) months of receiving a completed application, with the applicable fee. In the event the Association fails to act on a completed application within the prescribed time frame, the organization shall be deemed to have been admitted on date of the expiration of the three (3) months. Except for acts of God or war, an applicant which fails to complete the application process within three (3) months of its initial application shall be deemed to have withdrawn such application and shall forfeit all fees paid and must begin the application process afresh if it still desires to be considered for membership in the future.
Section 3.11: Criteria for Admitting Individual Members:
The following factors shall be taken into consideration in admitting Individual Members:
- The individual’s character and status.
- The individual’s record of service or potential record of service and contribution to Ndi-Udi-Ezeagu.
- The individual’s commitment to the objectives of the Association.
- Whether the individual resides in an area where there are less than seven (7) Udi-Ezeagu residents in that metropolis or city.
- Whether the individual’s membership and participation in the Association would significantly advance its interest.
Section 3.12: Manner of Admission of Individuals to the Association
An Udi-Ezeagu local organization desiring to become a Chapter of Udi-Ezeagu USA shall submit a written application and appropriate fee by certified mail to the National Financial Secretary. Upon the individual’s application, the Membership and Mobilization Committee of the Association shall conduct an investigation to determine whether the potential Individual Member meets the Association’s requirement for membership. If the potential Individual meets the requirements set forth in this Constitution, the Membership and Mobilization Committee shall recommend him or her to the Executive Council. The Executive Council shall consider the findings and make a decision.
Section 3.13:Rights of Individual Members
Individual members shall enjoy all rights of membership in the Association, including the right to vote. Individual Members are eligible to run for Udi-EzeaguUSAoffices.
ARTICLE IV: FEES, DUES AND LEVIES
Section 4.1: Registration Fee
There shall be a one-time Affiliate non refundable registration fee in an amount to be set by the Board of Directors beginning initially at $250.00. An Individual shall pay a one-time individual non refundable registration fee in an amount to be set by the Board of Directors beginning initially at$50.00. All payments to the Association whether registration, annual dues, convention fees etc shall be made with the Affiliate’s or individual’s check, cashier’s check or money order.
Section 4.2: Annual Dues
Each Affiliate shall pay annual dues in an amount equal to $100.00 multiplied by the number of Members. Each individual member shall pay annual dues of $150.00
Section 4.3: Delinquency:
Annual dues are due and payable by May 30 of each year. Payment of annual dues shall be a precondition for the registration and participation in the Udi-Ezeagu annual Convention. Members of Affiliate or Individual member that is delinquent on its financial obligation for thirty (30) days after the due date shall be notified of such delinquency in writing and shall lose all membership privileges, including voting rights, if the delinquency continues for three (3) months. An Affiliate or Individual members whose delinquency exceeds three (3) months shall no longer be a member in good standing and shall forfeit all rights and privileges of membership.
ARTICLE V: ELECTIONS AND ELIGIBILITY
Section 5.1: Electoral Commission
There shall be an Electoral Commission of three (3) members to be elected by members at its meeting during a convened National Convention preceding the year in which elections shall be held. The Electoral Commission shall have the following responsibilities:
1.Conduct all elections of the Association
2.Establish clear guidelines for free and fair elections through secret ballot, including procedures for campaign, deadlines, resolutions of election disputes, and inauguration of officers.
3.Seek general membershipapproval for the guidelines and the procedures for elections
4. Notify all Affiliates and Individual members of the guidelines and the procedures at least one (1) months prior to the annual convention in which election shall be held.
Section 5.2: Eligibility:
Any member of an Affiliate in good standing is eligible to run for any office in Udi-EzeaguUSA. Any individual member in good standing is eligible to run for office in Udi-EzeaguUSA.
Section 5.3: Election of Udi-Ezeagu Officers
All officers of Udi-EzeaguUSA shall be elected by accredited members by simple majority vote in a duly convened National Convention. Voting during elections shall be by secret ballot.
Section 5.3: Holding Conflicting Dual Positions: No person shall hold more than one position.
ARTICLE VI: STRUCTURE OF UDI-EZEAGUUSA
Section 6.1: The Udi-Ezeagu USA shall be organized according to the following structure:
1.Board of Directors: Shall be responsible for the articulation and formulation of policies.
2.Executive Council: Shall be the administrative/executive arm of Udi-EzeaguUSA.
3.Standing Committees: Shall be the strategic, planning and operational arm of the Association.
4.General membership made up of chapter members and individual members.
ARTICLE VII: BOARD OF DIRECTORS / COORDINATORS
Section 7.1: Authority
The Board of Directors shall be an advisory board responsible for the articulation and formulation of policies . For purposes of this Constitution, the terms Board of Directors, BOD, Board, and Directors are interchangeable.
Section 7.2: Composition:
The Board of Directors shall consist of 15 persons elected by the general membership (Members of Affiliates and Individual members).
Section 7.3: Functions of the Board of Directors:
The Board of Directors has the following functions:
- Set policies and procedures for implementation of the Udi-Ezeagu USA’s business.
- Serve in an advisory capacity to Executive Council.
3. Approve appointments, budgets and programs for all Udi-EzeaguUSA activities.
4. Receive formal reports from the Executive Council, Standing Committees, Ad Hoc Committees and other bodies as may be requested regarding their past, current or future activities.
5. Consider such other matters as may be brought before it as well as carry out all other responsibilities as circumstances may warrant.
Section 7.4: Meetings:
The meetings of the BOD shall be held quarterly and shall be called by the Chairperson or by a simple majority of the BOD with at least one week written notice posted at the BOD/R e-group mail. Emergency meetings may be called as needed.
Section 7.5: Term: A person elected as a BOD shall serve for two (2) years but may be re-elected for another term.
Section 7.6:Removal of a BOD Member by the BOD:
Any Board member who fails to attend BOD meetings for two quarterly meetings without reasonable excuse, or fails to fulfill the duties of his/her office, or has through his/her actions or inactions become a liability or hindrance to Udi-Ezeagu USA, may be removed by a two-third majority vote of the BOD members, provided that the town the BOD member is representing shall have been notified in writing at an e-group mail or other medium designated for dissemination of official notice of Udi-Ezeagu USA and a due process provided to the party subject to removal to defend him/herself or actions. A BOD member subject to removal shall be notified through telephone and publication at Udi-Ezeagu official notice e-group.
Section 7.8: Vacancies on the BOD.
Vacancy on the BOD shall be filled by the special election of the general membership for the remainder of the term of that BOD member.
Section 7.9: Quorum
A quorum for the transaction of business of Board of Directors shall be one-third of the BOD.
ARTICLE VIII: OFFICERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Section 8:1: The Board of Directors
Shall elect three officers from among its members as: (1) Chairperson, (2) Secretary, and (3) Parliamentarian. The position of Chairperson shall rotate between Udi and Ezeagu. In order words, whenever an Udi person is Chairperson, an Ezeagu shall be the President. Thus no one section shall hold both the post of Chairperson of BOD and President at the same time.
Chairperson: The Chairperson shall preside over the meetings of the Board and shall carry out all Board functions enumerated in this constitution. The Chair person position shall rotate between the two segments of Udi-Ezeagu LGA’s namely Udi and Ezeagu. The Chairperson shall hold the office of a term of two (2) years after which it shall shift to the other LGA. The terms chairperson, chairman or presiding officer are interchangeable.