On October 22, 2024, the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN) held a crucial meeting with the Registrar of Trade Unions, Mr. Folonipe Amos, at the Registrar’s office in Abuja.
The session, which began at 11:46 a.m., aimed to address internal conflicts affecting PMAN’s leadership and establish a framework for conflict resolution, organizational growth, and the long-term sustainability of the union.
Opening the meeting, Mr. Amos emphasized the importance of resolving PMAN’s internal disputes amicably.
While acknowledging his ongoing engagement with PMAN, he expressed regret over the absence of some key parties, including several National Working Committee (NWC) members—Sunny Neji, Zaaki Azzey, Steven Michael Ugochukwu (Ruggedman), and former PMAN General Secretary Boniface Itodo—who had declined the invitation.
He highlighted that the meeting’s objective was to interpret PMAN’s constitution and ensure that all leadership actions align with the union’s rules and regulations.
PMAN President Mr. Pretty Okafor provided a comprehensive overview of the events leading to the current dispute.
He described his persistent efforts to maintain harmony within PMAN, particularly while overseeing key union projects, including the PMAN House, PMAN Radio Station, and development of the union’s land in Abuja.
Despite resistance, Mr. Okafor noted his commitment to advancing PMAN’s initiatives, revealing that he had personally facilitated the acquisition of radio station equipment and secured international deals to bolster PMAN’s impact.
Mr. Okafor acknowledged that his efforts to modernize and enhance PMAN were met with opposition from some NWC members, culminating in attempts to unseat him during his official trip abroad.
The Registrar responded by clarifying that the NWC is accountable to the National Executive Council (NEC), PMAN’s second-highest decision-making body.
He advised that all parties adhere strictly to the PMAN constitution, reminding them that disputes like these fall under the jurisdiction of the Trade Union Dispute Act.
Throughout the meeting, members voiced concerns about the allocation of resources by the NWC, with calls for greater inclusivity in decision-making to benefit PMAN’s state chapters.
Mr. Okafor received a strong vote of confidence from the NEC, which praised his dedication and leadership amid challenging times.
In support of Mr. Okafor’s efforts, the NEC presented a formal letter of confidence, commending his vision and resilience in steering PMAN towards progress.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Okafor expressed gratitude to the Registrar, NEC members, and stakeholders for their unwavering support.
He reiterated his dedication to ensuring that PMAN reaches its objectives and announced plans to empower state chapters with the establishment of local secretariats aimed at fostering a more united and resourceful PMAN.
The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to peacefully resolve internal disputes and adhere to the union’s constitution.
The Registrar urged all parties to focus on PMAN’s future, reinforcing the union’s role in advancing the interests of Nigerian musicians and strengthening the country’s entertainment industry both nationally and internationally.
This release is intended for immediate publication as PMAN reaffirms its commitment to Nigerian musicians and the prosperity of the entertainment sector across Nigeria and beyond.
INN-HOUSE☆ 