TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1: Preamble……………………………………………. 1
Section 2: Name…………………………………………………. 1
Section 3: Aims & Objectives …………………………………… 1
Section 4: Application……………………………………………. 1
Section 5: Membership …………………………………………. 2
Section 6: Organs of the Union………………………………… 2
Section 7: Isi-Isiakpu Amawbia………………………………… 5
Section 8: Age-Grade…………………………………………… 6
Section 9: Branches of Amawbia Town Union………………. 7
Section 10: Council of Okokpa Amawbia ……………………. 8
Section 11: Ozo Title Society of Amawbia…………………… 9
Section 12: The Traditional Ruler of Amawbia Town………. 10
Section 13: Traditional Prime Minister of Amawbia Town…. 16
Section 14: The Okpaligwe-in-Council………………………. 18
Section 15: Succession, Vacancy & Regency in the
Stool of Okpaligwe of Amawbia Town…………. 20
Section 16: Code of Conduct for the Okpaligwe of Amawbia 22
Section 17: Trustees……………………………………………. 22
Section 18: Officers of the Union……………………………….. 22
Section 19: Election of Honorary/Elected Officers…………… 29
Section 20: Changes of Administration………………………. 31
Section 21: Oath of Office……………………………………… 31
Section 22: Removal of Honorary Officers & Central Council members………………………… 32
Section 23: Voting …………………………………………….. 33
Section 24: Finance…………………………………………… 34
Section 25: Custody of Funds……………………………….… 36
Section 26: Meetings of the Union…………………………… 37
Section 27: General Conference…………………………….. 37
Section 28: Emergency Conference………………………… … 40
Section 29: Central Council Meetings………………………. 41
Section 30: Home Meetings (IZU)…………………………… 41
Section 31: Mass Return …………………………………….. 42
Section 32: Eziokpaligwe Festival…………………………… 42
Section 33: Quorum for Meetings…………………………….. 43
Section 34: Publicity…………………………………………… 43
Section 35: Penalties for Non-Payment of levies………….. 44
Section 36: Unpartiotic Acts………………………………….. 45
Section 37: Order of Precedence in Amawbia…………….. … 46
Section 38: Amendments of this Constitution………………. 46
Section 39: Commencement…………………………………. 47
SCHEDULES
Schedule 1: Oath of Office for the Okpaligwe of
Amawbia…………………………………………………… 48
Schedule 2: Oath of Office for Osojeze of Amawbia (Traditional Prime Minister)……………………. 49
Schedule 3: Oath of Office for members of
Okpaligwe ‘s Council…………………………… 49
Schedule 4: Oath of Office for the President-General of
Amawbia Town Union…………………………. 50
Schedule 5: Oath of Office for the Deputy President- General/
Treasurer-General/Publicity Secretary of
Amawbia Town Union…………………………… 51
Schedule 6: Oath of Office for the Central Council of
Amawbia Town Union…………………………… 52
Schedule 7: Oath of Office for Member of the Central
Council of Amawbia Town Union……………….. 53
Schedule 8: Oath of Office for Principal paid Officers of the
Central Council of Amawbia Town Union………. 54
Schedule 9: List of Standing Committees…………………….. 55
SECTION 1 – PREAMBLE
We the people of Amawbia Town for the purpose of achieving the aims and objectives listed herein under do hereby resolve and give ourselves this Constitution.
SECTION 2 – NAME
The Union shall be called Amawbia Town Union, herein after referred to as ATU or simply the “Union”.
SECTION 3 – AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
- To foster and maintain a spirit of patriotism, fraternity and co- operation among the citizens of Amawbia wherever they may be.
- To promote, develop and sustain the culture, customs and tradition of Amawbia Town.
- To protect and defend the rights and interests of Amawbia Town and her citizens.
- To undertake Community development projects in Amawbia Town..
- To take any other legitimate measures that will promote Peace, Unity and Progress of Amawbia Town.
- To co-operate with the relevant organs of Local, State and Federal Governments in all matters affecting the interests and integrity of the people of Amawbia.
SECTION 4 – APPLICATION
This Constitution shall apply to all Amawbia Town citizens at home and abroad. Citizens of Amawbia Town resident abroad,
Age Grades and other organizations and associations, may formulate rules and regulations for the conduct of their local affairs. Where such rules conflict with the provisions of this Constitution, the latter shall prevail.
SECTION 5 – MEMBERSHIP
- All citizens of Amawbia Town and naturalized “Nwadianas” shall be members of the Union but only taxable or leviable citizens shall constitute the Union’s effective membership.
- Any offspring of a daughter of Amawbia Town married to a non – Amawbian, who is unable to return to his/her fatherland, may be sponsored for naturalization by his/her maternal family in Amawbia Town. He/she shall be adopted as a citizen of Amawbia Town on approval by the Council of Okokpa Amawbia Town, on the recommendation to that effect made by the Isi–Isiakpu Amawbia after detailed consideration of the sponsoring family’s request. The approval of the Council of Okokpa Amawbia shall be confirmed by the Okpaligwe-in-Council.
SECTION 6 – ORGANS OF THE UNION
- The Organs of the Union include Central Council, Okokpa Amawbia , Ozo Traditional Institution , Nze Society, Isi–Isiakpu Amawbia, Age Grades, ATU Branches, Eziokwubundu Women Group, Amawbia Youth Vanguard.
- Central Council membership shall comprise the following: –
- The President General.
- The Deputy President General.
- 1st & 2nd Vice President
- The Treasurer – General.
- Publicity Secretary.
- Financial Secretary-General
- One Representative from each registered Age Grade.
- Two Representatives from each Village.
- Two Representatives from Amawbia Youth Vanguard.
- One Representative each from ATU Branches with not more than twenty members.
- Two Representatives each from ATU Branches with more than twenty but not more than fifty members.
- Three Representatives each from ATU Branches with more than fifty members.
- The Secretary-General and Financial Secretary-General shall be ex-officio members of the Central Council and have no voting rights. Other members of the Central Council shall have voting rights during their meetings.
- No person shall represent more than one organization in the Central Council.
- Functions of Central Council shall include the following: –
- Central Council shall be the executive arm of the ATU responsible for carrying out the decisions of the Union taken at the General Conference,
Emergency Conference as well as Home Meetings (Izu Amawbia).
- It shall be responsible for dealing with day-to-day matters of the Town Union and shall co-operate with relevant Government Agencies and other organs to achieve its objectives.
- Central Council shall formulate measures designed to enhance the aims and objectives of the Union for the consideration of the General or Emergency Conferences.
- It shall coordinate the activities, and exercise overall control of all organs of the Union.
- Central Council shall form ad hoc/standing Committees as may be necessary and shall also appoint members of the standing/ad hoc Committees as listed in Schedule 9 of this Constitution which include among others Land Committee, Security Committee, Legal Committee, Audit Committee and Budget Committee.
- Central Council shall determine the date for induction of New Age Grade during and as part of the Mass Return Festivities.
- Central Council shall ensure an Age Grade so constituted shall get itself registered with Central Council on the date of its induction, on payment of registration fee that shall from time to time be determined by the Central Council, provided that where such Age Grade fails to comply with payment
of registration fee it shall not be inducted and/or constituted.
- Central Council shall ensure the annual renewal of all existing Age Grade registration fees that shall, from time to time be determined by the Central Council, provided that where such Age Grade fails to comply on or before 31st March of each year, shall be appropriately fined and/or such Age Grade de-registered and further sanctions taken against such Age Grade as shall be determined by the Central Council.
- Central council shall carryout any other functions as may be determined by the General Conference or Emergency Conference or Home Meeting (Izu Amawbia) from time to time.
SECTION 7 – ISI – ISIAKPU AMAWBIA
- Isi – Isiakpu Amawbia shall constitute one of the major organs of the Union.
- Isi–Isiakpu Amawbia membership shall comprise men of appropriate age not up to 75years, subject to selection from each kindred in each village.
- Functions of Isi–Isiakpu Amawbia shall include the following:-
- Isi–Isiakpu shall constitute into an Age Grade at every other mass
return year, which is six yearly, all male citizens of Amawbia who within the said six year period attain the age of 18 years or above, subject to
the recommendation of the last registered Age Grade, to Isi–Isiakpu.
- Isi – Isiakpu shall exercise appellate arbitration over land matters or
disputes bordering on the tradition of the town emanating from Village Isi –Isiakpu, but subject to further appellate arbitration jurisdictions of Okokpa Amawbia and Okpaligwe–in–Council.
- Isi – Isiakpu shall regulate and control Amawbia Town Masquerade
institution and shall determine the appropriate sanctions against defaulters in line with the gravity of the offence and/or default.
- Isi–Isiakpu shall amongst others, ensure compliance and
implementation of the orders of the Union.
- Isi–Isiakpu shall pursue its traditional functions in harmony with the
aims and objectives of the Union.
- Isi – Isiakpu shall control the granting of access road in Amawbia
where there is dispute and equally shall be responsible for creating
new roads in Amawbia.
- Isi – Isiakpu shall carryout such assignment as may be authorized by
the Union from time to time.
- Isi – Isiakpu shall conduct adequate organization and disciplinary
control of their members.
SECTION 8 – AGE GRADE
- It shall be compulsory for every Amawbia male citizen to belong to an
Age Grade.
- Age Grades shall work towards the achievement of the aims and
objectives of the Union by: –
- adequate organization and disciplinary control of their members.
- carrying out such assignment as may be authorized by the Union from time to time.
SECTION 9 – BRANCHES OF AMAWBIA TOWN UNION
- Five or more citizens of Amawbia resident outside Amawbia may form a Branch of the Union and notify the Union’s Headquarters accordingly. Individuals unable to form a Branch due to paucity of numbers shall register with the nearest Branch or correspond direct with the Union’s Headquarters in Amawbia. Union Branches shall represent the Union in various towns or localities in which they are resident and shall organize Amawbia citizens in those towns or localities into an effective and virile body to pursue the aims and objectives of the Union.
- It shall be compulsory for every citizen of Amawbia resident abroad to be a member of the local Branch of the Union where one exists.
- Union Branches shall render annual returns of their membership, as at 31st August, each year, showing the following details: –
- Nominal roll by kindreds and villages.
- List of departures from the Branch since the last returns.
- List of new members at the Branch since the last returns.
- List of Amawbians in the town who have not joined, or who have been suspended/expelled from the Branch of the Union.
- The returns shall be forwarded to the Secretary – General not later than 30th September of that year, to enable him update his records.
- Similarly, financial returns of the members of each Branch of the Union as at 31st December each year, should be forwarded to the Financial–Secretary General, and copied to the Secretary – General giving lists of members, arranged by kindreds and villages, showing amounts of annual recurrent levies, special levies paid, and donations made, during the year in question, and since the last returns were made.
- The returns should be forwarded to reach the financial Secretary – General and the Secretary – General, not later than 31st March of the year immediately following that of the returns, to enable them update their records, and compile and circulate lists of members eligible to vote and be voted for at the next General Conference and elections.
SECTION 10 – COUNCIL OF OKOKPA AMAWBIA
- Okokpa Amawbia shall be composed of all male citizens who are aged above 75 years.
2i. The Council of Okokpa Amawbia shall comprise mature
men immensely learned in traditional customs and creed of Amawbia town and shall be drawn from Okokpa Amawbia of the villages in accordance with the following quotas to form a twenty one (21) member council viz-:
- Umueze village 4
- Ngene village 4
- Adabebe village 4
- Umukabia village 3
- Ezimezi village 3
- Enuoji village 3
2ii. In the absence of qualified Okokpa from any village, the oldest member of the oldest age grade below Okokpa shall be eligible for membership of the Council.
- The Council shall be responsible for the upkeep of the customs and conventional behaviour of all citizens of Amawbia.
- The Council shall constitute an appellate body for the resolution of land differences or conflicts in Amawbia emanating from Isi–Isiakpu Amawbia.
SECTION 11 – OZO TITLE SOCIETY OF AMAWBIA
- Ozo title society of Amawbia shall comprise citizens who have taken the Ozo Amawbia title, which is the highest traditional title in Amawbia.
- An Ozo Amawbia title aspirant must be a financially up to date member of Amawbia Town Union and must obtain the certificate of clearance from the Union.
- The Constitution of the Ozo title society of Amawbia comprising the conditions for Ozo title taking in Amawbia, the operational Rules and Regulations, the code of conduct, obligations and privileges for Ozo Amawbia title holders, shall be drawn up by the Ozo title society of Amawbia, and submitted to the General Conference for ratification.
- The Okokpa Amawbia, Isi – Isiakpu Amawbia and Ndi Nze sitting in joint Council shall be the final appellate body for the resolution of misunderstandings within the Ozo society of Amawbia or about Ozo Amawbia title.
SECTION 12 – THE TRADITIONAL RULER OF AMAWBIA TOWN
- There shall be a traditional ruler in Amawbia Town and he shall be the head of Amawbia Town and shall be a symbol of Unity and solidarity.
- He shall be accorded absolute respect and honour by all Amawbia citizens and whenever he enters or rises to leave any gatherings, everybody shall stand, make ovation and remain standing until he is seated or leaves the gathering.
- Any defaulter in this regard as in Sub section 2 above, shall be immediately ordered out of the gathering, and shall be liable to a fine of N1,000.00 (One Thousand Naira). Furthermore, he shall not be admitted thenceforth to any meeting, conference or gathering of Amawbia Community, until he has paid the fine of
N1,000.00 (One Thousand Naira) and purged himself of his disrespect of the Okpaligwe of Amawbia.
- The traditional ruler shall be known and referred to as OKPALIGWE Amawbia and shall bear his first and surnames proceeded by the designation IGWE and followed by the title Okpaligwe Amawbia (e.g. Igwe M.O. Okoye, Okpaligwe Amawbia). Should a future Okpaligwe bear the same surname “Okoye”, then the name shall bear a suffix II or III, Okpaligwe Amawbia, (eg Igwe C. N. Okoye II, Okpaligwe Amawbia)
- To be eligible for the stool of Okpaligwe, a candidate shall: –
- Be a citizen of Amawbia (that is to say, his father must be of Amawbia origin).
- Not be less than 35 years old.
- Be married and currently living with his wife, have a befitting house of his own in Amawbia, and shall be ordinarily resident in Amawbia Town.
- Be a person of substance with visible means of livelihood.
- Not have been convicted by a Court of competent jurisdiction of any criminal offence, and shall not have committed any wrong doing against the traditions and customs of Amawbia Town, or anything prejudicial to the interests of Amawbia Town.
- Be prominent in championing the cause of Amawbia Town and contributing in cash and/or kind
to the development of the town as well as being an up-to-date financial member of the Union.
- Be in apparent good health, physically fit and of sound mind.
- Not be an undischarged bankrupts.
- Be literate, with minimum academic qualification of West African School Certificate (WASC) or its certified equivalent.
- Be an Ozo Amawbia title holder and have a suitable “Obu” or be prepared to meet these conditions before his installation date.
- Must be a financial up to date member of his village, Age Grade and Town Union.
- Mode of selection of Okpaligwe of Amawbia shall be as follows: –
- Okpaligwe-in-Council shall inform the Central Council in writing about the existence of vacancy in the stool of Okpaligwe of Amawbia within one month of his last ofala which in any case will not be more than one year of his death.
- Central Council shall announce the vacancy in the stool of Okpaligwe Amawbia and call for applications from aspirants at a home meeting (Izu), as well as by circular letter to Amawbia Town Union branches, Age Grades and other relevant organization within one month of receiving the information from Igwe-in-Council.
- Central Council shall receive all applications from aspirants which must be within one month from the date of the circular letter, and all applications shall contain briefs as detailed in Section 12 Sub Section 5 paragraphs a – k of this Constitution.
- Central Council shall screen the applicants and present them to Okpaligwe–in–Council within one month of receiving the applications, for further and final screening.
- Okpaligwe–in–Council shall after further and final screening return the successful applications to Central Council for election within one month.
- Central Council shall appoint the electoral body for the conduct of the election of Okpaligwe Amawbia.
- The Electoral body so appointed shall be responsible for the conduct of election of Okpaligwe Amawbia and shall conduct the said election within three months.
- The election of Okpaligwe of Amawbia shall be by secret ballot and only Age Grade members who are financially up to date are eligible to vote.
- Any member of the Central Council or Okpaligwe–in– Council who aspires to the vacant stool of Okpaligwe shall not be present or participate at the meetings for the opening and screening of applications.
- The role and decisions of the Central Council and the Okpaligwe–in–Council as specified in this
Constitution in the whole process of selecting an Okpaligwe shall be final.
- The stool of Okpaligwe shall rotate among the six villages in this order: Umueze, Ngene, Adabebe, Umukabia, Ezimezi and Enuoji
- The installation ceremony of an Okpaligwe elect shall be as follows: –
- The central Council shall in consultation with the Okpaligwe – in – Council after election and subject to the provisions of this Constitution within two weeks determine the timing of Okpaligwe-elect’s installation.
- Central Council in consultation with Okpaligwe – in – Council shall organize all ceremonies relating to the installation of the Okpaligwe elect.
- The formal installation ceremony of the Okpaligwe of Amawbia shall be solemnly performed on a designated date, and the Regent or the Okpaligwe – in – Council members shall appoint among themselves a person who shall before the General Assembly of Amawbia Community call on the Ezeana from Umukabia Village to put the crown on the Okpaligwe’s head, and also call on the Akajiofor of Ezi Oye Ezimezi Village to present the Okpaligwe with the traditional staff of office (OFO). Thereafter, Okpaligwe shall take the Oath of his office immediately as stipulated in schedule 1 of this Constitution.
- The Okpaligwe shall be presented to Government for recognition as soon as possible after his installation by the President – General accompanied by Okpaligwe – in – Council members of Amawbia for and on behalf of themselves and the Amawbia community.
- The functions of the Okpaligwe shall involve the following among others: –
- Occupy the first position and preside at all ceremonial occasions and festivities in Amawbia at which he is present.
- Receive important visitors to Amawbia Community.
- Up-hold the customs and traditions of Amawbia people in consultation and collaboration as appropriate, with relevant organs and institutions of the town. Serve as a formidable force making for stability and moderation in Amawbia town.
- See to the maintenance of law and order in Amawbia Town.
- Take action to protect the integrity and interests of Amawbia Town and its people, even if such action may not be covered by this Constitution. He shall call an emergency Conference within one month to ratify such an extra-ordinary action.
- Encourage development projects, rallying Amawbia Community in the collection of taxes, rates, levies and in prosecuting self-help communal projects.
- Confer honorary chieftaincy and other titles on distinguished citizens and any other persons who are selected and recommended from time to time for outstanding services or contributions to Amawbia Town or to the Nigerian Nation in any field of human endeavour. Such awards shall be recommended by the Central Council to the Okpaligwe in Council. The Okpaligwe in Council shall determine the grades and titles of Chieftaincy in Amawbia.
- Shall be entitled to homage expressed voluntarily in cash and/or kind by Amawbia citizens at home and abroad. He shall also receive tribute from those on whom he confers honorary titles.
- Celebrate Okpaligwe day on the last day of the annual feast of Eziokpaligwe, involving the entire people of Amawbia. This shall be the day for conferring honours and Chieftaincy titles.
SECTION 13 – TRADITIONAL PRIME MINISTER OF AMAWBIA TOWN
- There shall be a Traditional Prime Minister in Amawbia town who shall be second in command to Okpaligwe of Amawbia, and shall be known and referred to as OSOJEZE of Amawbia Town.
He shall be addressed as in this example thus Chief B. A. Ibekwe, Osojeze of Amawbia.
- The eligibility for the position of Osojeze of Amawbia shall be the same as for the stool of Okpaligwe of Amawbia.
- The Osojeze of Amawbia shall be selected by same process as with Okpaligwe Amawbia and shall not be selected from the same village as the Okpaligwe of Amawbia.
- The Central Council shall announce the selection of an Osojeze of Amawbia at home meeting (Izu Amawbia) as well as by the news letter and, equally the Central council in consultation with Okpaligwe–in–Council shall thereafter arrange for the installation by the Okpaligwe of Amawbia within a period of ONE MONTH.
- Osojeze of Amawbia shall be the next to the Okpaligwe of Amawbia in order of precedence. He shall advise the Okpaligwe and offer such assistance as the Okpaligwe may desire in carrying out his functions as the Okpaligwe of Amawbia. Whenever there is a vacancy in the stool of Okpaligwe of Amawbia, the Osojeze shall function as Regent.
- The Position of Osojeze of Amawbia shall be for life unless breached by any of the conditions set out in Section 14 Sub section 2 paragraphs a – d of this Constitution. In the event of a vacancy in the stool of Osojeze, the same processes of Okpaligwe Amawbia selection shall be followed for selecting another Osojeze as stipulated in this Constitution.
- The code of conduct for the Osojeze of Amawbia shall
be the same as for the Okpaligwe of Amawbia as stipulated in the relevant Section of this Constitution except on installation, the Osojeze shall subscribe to and sign the oath of office as in schedule 2 to this Constitution, to be administered by the Okpaligwe of Amawbia.
SECTION 14 – THE OKPALIGWE – IN – COUNCIL
- Okpaligwe of Amawbia shall have a Council/cabinet known as the Okpaligwe – in – Council or Okpaligwe’s cabinet who shall assist and advise him in the exercise of his powers and functions.
- The Council/Cabinet shall comprise of the following permanent and non-permanent members as follows: –
- Permanent members shall comprise the following: –
- Osojeze of Amawbia.
- Ezeana of Amawbia.
- Akajiofor of Amawbia.
- Chairman of the Council of Okokpa.
- Chairman of Isi – Isiakpu.
- Head of Ozo Amawbia Title Holders.
- President – General of Amawbia Town Union.
- Deputy President–General of Amawbia Town Union.
- Past President – Generals of Amawbia Town Union.
- Non – Permanent members shall comprise the following: –
- Two Representative from Umueze Village.
- Two Representative from Ngene Village.
- Two Representatives from Adabebe Village.
- Two Representatives from Umukabia Village.
- Two Representatives from Ezimezi Village.
- Two Representatives from Enuoji Village.
- Members of Okpaligwe–in–Council shall not necessarily be a red cap chief.
- Non – Permanent members shall hold office for three years and may be eligible for re-election. Central Council reserves the right to reject the candidature of non-permanent members and the body concerned shall be obliged to send another representative. Permanent members shall screen the non-permanent members.
- Okpaligwe–in–Council members shall elect a Secretary among the members.
- Okpaligwe shall administer the Oath of Office as stipulated in schedule 3 of this Constitution to all members of the Council/Cabinet on the first meeting of the Council. The swearing in ceremony shall be performed in the presence of the Council of Okokpa and members of the Central council. New members shall be similarly sworn in on assumption of office.
- Okpaligwe shall preside over all meetings of the Council which shall be summoned and held only at his instance or at least two permanent members. Quorum for meetings of the Okpaligwe–in–Council shall be eight which must include at least three permanent members and representatives of at least three villages.
- Non–permanent members of the Okpaligwe–in–Council who are absent from three consecutive meetings of the Council/cabinet, and shall be replaced by the appropriate organ, at the instance of the Okpaligwe–in–Council.
- Okpaligwe–in–Council/Cabinet shall be the final appellate body for settlement of land differences in Amawbia Town.
SECTION 15 – SUCCESSION, VACANCY AND REGENCY IN THE STOOL OF OKPALIGWE OF AMAWBIA TOWN
- The stool of Okpaligwe of Amawbia shall not be hereditary and shall not be successive in one village that have produced the immediate past Okpaligwe, and shall be rotational among the villages.
- A person ceases to be the Okpaligwe of Amawbia if he shall: –
- Fail in any one of the conditions set out in Section 12 Sub – Section 5 paragraphs a – k of this Constitution.
- Resigns the stool.
- Be rendered incapable of performing the functions of the office by virtue of medical incapacitation as determined by a team of three government doctors appointed by the Central Council.
- Loose the confidence of the Amawbia community.
- Subject to Section 15 Sub-section 2 paragraph d, of this Constitution, loss of confidence shall be expressed in a serious allegation or petition by groups or individuals and shall be processed in the following manner: –
- Central Council shall investigate the allegation and place its findings before an Emergency Conference of Amawbia Town Union called for the purpose.
- Okpaligwe shall be given full opportunity to defend himself either in person or in writing. Emergency Conference shall decide the guilt or otherwise of the Okpaligwe by two third majority of secret vote.
- In any of the events mentioned in Section 15 Sub – Section 2 paragraphs a – d of this Constitution, the stool of the Okpaligwe of Amawbia shall be deemed vacant and the Central Council in Consultation with Okpaligwe–in–Council shall proceed with the processes of selecting another Okpaligwe as stipulated under the relevant section of this Constitution.
- In the event of a vacancy in the stool of Okpaligwe of Amawbia and before the selection of another Okpaligwe, the Osojeze of Amawbia shall function as the Regent. The period of Regency shall not be more than Six Months after the burial ceremonies of a deceased Okpaligwe or after the date of vacancy caused by other than death.
SECTION 16 – CODE OF CONDUCT FOR THE OKPALIGWE OF AMAWBIA
- The Okpaligwe shall at all times maintain a dignifying conduct of palpable impartiality, honesty and rectitude.
- He shall not eat or drink in public places like drinking parlours or pubs, except when such a place is used as venue for a social or other public event.
- He shall be suitably and properly dressed at all times.
- He shall on installation subscribe to, and sign the Oaths of office as in schedule I to this Constitution, to be administered by the Akajiofor of Amawbia.
SECTION 17 – TRUSTEES
- Amawbia Town Union shall have Trustees which shall consist of Seven Members.
- The Trustees shall ensure the overall safety of the communal land and other properties.
- The Trustees shall be the authorized representatives of the Town and shall sign all important memorials and other authorized documents on behalf of the entire citizens of Amawbia Town.
SECTION 18 – OFFICERS OF THE UNION
- The Union shall have honorary and paid officers as follows: –
- Honorary Officers which include: –
- President General.
- Deputy President – General.
iii. 1st & 2nd Vice President-Generals
- Treasurer – General.
- Publicity Secretary.
- Paid officers which includes: –
- Secretary General.
- Assistant secretary General.
- Financial Secretary General
- Clerical and Typing staff as may from time to time be approved by the Central Council.
- Gong Man.
- The Central Council shall be responsible for the appointment, discipline or dismissal of all paid officers of the Union in accordance with the conditions of service approved by the General Conference. All paid officers shall receive remuneration as shall from time to time be recommended by the Central Council and approved by the General Conference.
- Function of Officers include the following: –
- President General shall perform the following functions as follows: –
- He shall be the executive/administrative head of the Union and shall preside at all meetings of the Union, including home meetings (Izu). He shall on adoption sign minutes of meetings of the Union.
- He shall summon Central Council meetings,
and when necessary, Emergency Conferences.
- He shall have power to instruct any citizen of Amawbia on any matter calculated to enhance the interests of the town and the citizen so instructed shall be bound to carry out such instructions.
- On social or other occasions in which the Okpaligwe is present, he shall be third in order of precedence, after the Osojeze Amawbia.
- The President General shall live within 200 kilometers of Amawbia.
- Deputy – President General shall perform the following functions as follows: –
- He shall be resident at home.
- He shall have full powers to deal with day to day events of Union at home where the President – General is not available at home.
- In the absence of the President – General, the deputy President – General shall deputize for him as appropriate.
- In the event of permanent absence or disability of President – General, the Deputy President General shall assume full responsibilities of the President – General until the next General Conference.
- The Deputy President – General shall deal
with such other matters as may be assigned to him by the President – General.
- Secretary General shall perform the following functions as follows: –
- He shall be responsible for the day to day running of the Union’s secretariat, subject to the overall control and direction of the President – General.
- He shall record the minutes of all meetings of the Union and shall on adoption sign such minutes jointly with the President – General.
- He shall prepare an Annual Report of the activities of the Union and submit this to the General Conference.
- He shall maintain an accurate and up-to-date record of all leviable Amawbia citizens in separate official register for each Branch Union and Village, which shall be published not later than January every year for information and verification of Branches and Villages.
- He shall keep all Branches of the Union adequately and prompt informed about the activities of the Union by providing the necessary materials to the Publicity Secretary who shall publish the information in the monthly newsletter.
- He shall maintain proper record and
custody of all property within the secretariat.
- He shall exercise day to day control and discipline over all paid officers of the Union.
- Financial Secretary – General shall perform the following functions as follows: –
- He shall receive on behalf of the Union all monies due to the Union and shall maintain an accurate and up – to – date account of such monies received.
- He shall pay all monies received to the Treasurer – General not later than Twenty-Four Hours after such monies are received and shall obtain an official receipt from the Treasurer – General for such payments.
- He shall prepare all payment vouchers and keep duplicate paid vouchers.
- He shall maintain a register of individual payments of the annual recurrent and other levies and provide such information to the Secretary – General who shall advise Branch Union three months before the date of every General Conference.
- He shall prepare separate lists of both payment and non payments of levies by Amawbia citizens arranged in Branch and villages and shall present the list to the General Conference for appropriate action against defaulters.
- He shall render financial report to the Central Council as may be required from time to time but at least once quarterly.
- Assistant Secretary – General shall act as the Secretary – General at all meeting in which the Secretary – General is absent and shall perform such duties as may be delegated to him by the Secretary – General.
- Treasurer–General shall perform the following functions as follows: –
- He shall receive from the Financial Secretary – General all monies of the Union and shall issue official receipts to cover such monies.
- He shall deposit all monies so received into the Bank Account of the Union not later than three days from the date of receipt.
- He shall maintain an accurate and up – to – date account of monies of the Union and shall keep the Bank passbook and cheque books.
- Notwithstanding the provisions of sub-paragraph f(ii) above, he shall keep an imprest account not exceeding N20,000.00 (Twenty Thousand Naira).
- Publicity – Secretary shall perform the following functions as follows: –
- He shall strive at all times to project a good image of Amawbia Town.
- He shall collect information from home and abroad for public enlightenment and process public statements to be issued by him or the President –with the General, after vetting by the latter.
- He shall refute promptly in consultation President – General or the Deputy President – General, any public statements unfavourable to Amawbia Town.
- He shall be responsible for gathering all necessary information and publishing the monthly news letter including maintenance of the Union website.
- Auditors shall perform the following functions as follows: –
- Union shall have four Auditors, two of which shall carry out the inspectors’ duties while the other two shall produce the audit reports.
- Auditors shall audit the accounts of Amawbia town union in every six Months.
- Auditors shall inspect the accounts of Union at least three times a year to ensure proper receipt and expenditure of the Union’s fund in accordance with the decisions and rules of the Union, and ensure that all accounting books and records are properly maintained.
- One Audit report covering the period from the last audit report to three months before a
General Conference shall be submitted to the General Conference for consideration.
- Auditors shall have easy access to any documents or property of the Union which they may consider relevant to their duties.
- Auditors shall not be members of the Central Council as they are expected to be unbiased and objective in reporting on the financial administration of the Union.
- Gongman or Town Crier shall perform the following functions as follows: –
- Amawbia Town union shall have a Gongman or Town crier resident in Amawbia and shall primarily by means of his gong (Ogene) inform the townsfolk of any public meeting (Izu) that has been summoned.
- He shall similarly disseminate any urgent public information as may be authorized by the Okpaligwe or the President – General.
iii. He shall perform only on the authority of the Okpaligwe or the President – General.
SECTION 19 – ELECTION OF HONORARY/ELECTED OFFICERS
- Election of Honorary/elected officers of the Union shall be held triennially on the occasion of the Mass Return of Amawbia citizens.
- Nomination of representatives of Villages and other
groups in the Central Council shall be notified to the Secretary – General in writing at least three months before the Mass Return of Amawbia citizens, and the names of those nominated shall be announced at, and confirmed by the Mass Return Conference.
- When a vacancy occurs in any one of the offices of the Union, the Central Council shall fill it temporarily from amongst its members pending the next General Conference when election shall be held to fill the vacancy, and the person so elected shall serve the remaining of the triennial election period.
- Any group represented in the Central Council shall notify the Secretary General in writing when any of its representatives is/are no longer able to represent it and forward to him the name(s) of its new representatives.
- A President – General who loses office through normal process of election or is removed from office shall no longer be eligible to contest for the post of President – General.
- Honorary Officers of the Union shall not also hold Branch Union Offices. Whenever a Branch Official is elected to an honorary office of the Union he shall resign his office at the branch Union.
- The result of every election and where applicable, the members of the resultant central Council shall be forwarded in writing by the Secretary – General to the Okpaligwe of Amawbia not later than three days after the elections.
SECTION 20 – CHANGES OF ADMINISTRATION
- Within one month of a new administration, the outgoing President – General shall give the in-coming President–General a comprehensive handing-over notes. The handing-over notes shall among others, give detailed status report on the Union’s affairs, the latest financial statement and balance, outstanding liabilities and an-to-date inventory of the union’s property. The handing – over notes shall be signed by both the out-going and the in-coming President General.
- There shall be a transitional period covering two Central Council meetings during which the out-going President General shall be in attendance for consultation and advice as may be necessary and/or sought for. The Central Council shall witness the signing of the handing over notes which shall take place not later than the second of the two meetings within the transitional period.
SECTION 21 – OATH OF OFFICE
- The inaugural meetings of the Central Council shall be opened by the Okpaligwe of Amawbia/or Osojeze Amawbia in absence of Okpaligwe. He shall administer the Oath of Office in the presence of the permanent members of his Council on the following:
as in schedule 5 |
as in schedule 4 |
- The President – General
- The Deputy/Vice President General
as in schedule 6 |
as in schedule 7 |
- Other members of the Central Council.
- other officers of the Union
- A new administration shall not be legitimate until it has been sworn in by the Okpaligwe of Amawbia, or Osojeze Amawbia in absence of Okpaligwe. New comers to the Central Council shall take the oath of office before assuming office.
- All principal paid officers of the Union shall swear to an appropriate oath of secrecy, loyalty and allegiance.
SECTION 22 – REMOVAL OF HONORARY OFFICERS AND CENTRAL COUNCIL MEMBERS: –
- The Union shall have the right to remove from office, any officer on grounds of inefficiency, misconduct or dishonesty. In that connection, action shall be taken as follows: –
- Inefficiency: – The removal shall be affected after the consideration and approval by a meeting of the Central Council specially summoned for the purpose and at which, not less than 20 members including the President – General and representatives of at least two Branches shall be present.
- Misconduct or Dishonesty: – An officer who has committed an act of Misconduct or dishonesty shall be suspended immediately by a meeting of the Central Council. Thereafter, further action shall be taken within two months as in Sub – Section1(a) above. The person concerned shall in all cases be given opportunity to defend himself in writing or in person or both.
- President – General’s Misconduct or Unsatisfactory Performance: – Reports concerning misconduct by, or unsatisfactory performance of the President – General shall be forwarded to the Okpaligwe of Amawbia, for investigation by the Okpaligwe in Council, which shall determine whether or not a prima facieses case has been made against the President – General. Based on the recommendations of the Okpaligwe-in-Council, the Okpaligwe shall summon an Emergency Conference to consider and take appropriate action on the report.
- Should the Emergency Conference pass a no confidence vote on the President – General, then the Deputy President – General will automatically step into his shoes as acting President – General, until the next General Conference when another President – General shall be elected to run the remaining of the triennial election period.
SECTION 23 – VOTING
All matters on which general agreement is not obtained shall be resolved by show of hands or by secret ballot as may be decided by the meeting, except in respect of elections of officers and amendment of this Constitution where voting shall be by secret ballot only. In the case of parity of votes, the chairman of electoral committee shall have a casting vote.
SECTION 24 – FINANCE
- The Central Council shall prepare an annual budget showing recurrent estimated income and expenditure as well as capital projects, with their estimated costs and anticipated source of financing them. The budget shall be considered for approval by the General Conference. Any unforeseen expenditures outside the approved annual budget, shall be considered and approved by the Central Council subject to a maximum of N200,000.00 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) as specified in Section 24 Sub – Section 5 of this Constitution.
- In meeting the aims and objectives of the Union as in Section 2 of this Constitution, the Union shall raise funds in the form of annual levies, donations, special levies, rent of communal lands and property, and through fund raising activities and festivities.
- Annual Recurrent levy shall be determined from time to time only by the general conference.
- Assessment and collection of levies and contributions from Amawbia citizens’ resident abroad shall by Branches only. In respect of citizens’ resident at home, assessment and collection shall be only by Villages. All assessment of citizens shall be communicated to ATU Headquarters not later than 31st March of each year; to enable the Central Council prepares the Budget as in Section 23 Sub – Section 1 above.
- There shall be annual levy to support the Eziokpaligwe festival, known as the Eziokpaligwe supporting fee, the levy shall be paid by all Amawbia citizens which shall be determined from time to time by General Conference.
- The Central Council shall maintain separate ledgers for all payments in respect of Branches and Villages, and shall on all occasions when such information is published, reflect the payments according to Branches, and villages with family/kindred sub-ledgers for each Village and Branch .
- The following shall be exempted from levies and contributions: –
- The Okpaligwe of Amawbia. He shall however, be free to make voluntary donation to the town’s funds or sponsor a development project.
- Amawbia citizens who are applicants abroad duly certified by their Branches.
- unemployed Amawbia citizens below the age of 18 years.
- Students not earning any income.
- Indigenes at home who apply and are exempted by the Central Council.
SECTION 25 – CUSTODY OF FUNDS
- The union shall have a Bank Account with a commercial Bank approved by the General Conference.
- Except for cash imprest of not more than N20,000.00 (Twenty Thousand Naira) all monies of the Union shall be deposited in the Bank, or invested as may be decided by the Central Council if the General conference is more than three months from the date of decision for the investment and provided that such investment is approved by a majority of not less than two thirds of the entire membership of the Central Council.
- The Bank Account of the Union shall be operated by the following officers of the union; the President – General or in his absent the Deputy President-General, the Treasurer-General and the Secretary-General, the President-General or the Deputy President- General with one other signatory may sign withdrawals.
- The Central Council shall be responsible for the disbursement of all recurrent expenditures and of other expenditure authorized by the General Conference.
- In case of an emergency, expenditures not covered by the General Conference decision shall be authorized by two thirds of the total membership of the central Council which shall include representatives of at least two branches.
- All expenditures shall be covered by the Union’s Official payment voucher which shall be signed by the President-General or in his absence the Deputy President-General and the Financial Secretary-General.
SECTION 26 – MEETINGS OF THE UNION
- There shall be the following types of meetings as follows: –
- General Conference.
- Emergency Conference.
- Central Council Meetings.
- Home Meetings (Izu).
- Mass Return General Conference.
- All meetings shall be held at Eziokpaligwe Square Amawbia Town Hall or at such other venue as may be decided by the Central Council or the Okpaligwe of Amawbia, and suitable to all concerned.
SECTION 27 – GENERAL CONFERENCE
- The supreme authority of the Amawbia Town Union shall be vested on the General Conference. It shall have powers to do anything necessary for the attainment of the objectives of the Union, subject to the provisions of the Constitution.
- Attendance at the General conference shall be open to all qualified adult citizens at home as well as members of Amawbia Town Union Branches, Villages and Age Grades, who attend in their private capacities or as the official representatives of their Branches, Villages, or Age Grades.
- All officials of the Amawbia Town Union Headquarters and members of the Central Council resident at home shall attend the General Conference.
- Official representatives at the General Conference who shall present accreditation letters shall be as follows: –
- Amawbia Town Union Branches with not more than 20 members shall be at least one delegate.
- Amawbia Town Union Branches with membership of more than 20 but not more than 50 shall be at least two delegates.
- Amawbia Town Union Branches with more than 50 members shall be at least three delegates.
- All registered Age Grade shall be five delegates from each Age Grade.
- All Villages shall be five delegates from each Village.
- Any organization as in this Section 26 Sub – Section 4 above which fails to send a complete delegation to the General Conference without an acceptable excuse shall be penalized the sum of N5,000.00 (Five Thousand Naira).
- Each official of Amawbia Town Union Headquarters and members of the Central Council resident at home who fails to attend General Conference shall be penalized the sum of N2,000.00 (Two Thousand Naira).
- Representatives as listed in this Section 26 Sub-Section 4 and official of Amawbia Town Union Headquarters shall be liable to a fine of N100.00 (One Hundred Naira) per person for lateness at meetings of the General Conference. A member shall be regarded as being late if he arrives after the opening prayers.
- The duties of the General Conference shall be as follows: –
- It shall ratify where necessary the actions of the central council and take other measures necessary for the attainment of the objectives of the Amawbia Town Union and in particular consider the following matters: –
- Presidential Address.
- Secretary General Annual Report.
- Financial Secretary General Report.
- Audit Report.
- Election of Honorary officers of the Union and ratification of Central Council representatives of organization, where necessary to fill vacancies which might have occurred during the year.
- Budget Presentation by the President General.
- Other matters that may be on the Agenda.
- General Conference shall be held during the month of December every year and the Central Council shall be responsible for summoning and organizing it. At least two months notice shall be given for a General Conference to Branches, Villages, Age grades and other relevant organizations.
- All the Conference materials shall be circulated to all participants along with the notice and agenda of the General Conference.
SECTION 28 – EMERGENCY CONFERENCE
- Apart from the General Conference, either of the following shall direct the summoning of Emergency Conference as the need arises: –
- The President General.
- Three members of Central Council.
- A joint request in writing to the Central Council by at least Three Chairmen of Villages, and/or age Grades or Branches, and the Central Council shall compelled to summon such meeting.
- Official representatives at Emergency Conference shall be at the rate of half of those for the General Conference.
- The Secretary – General shall ensures that all Branches, Villages and Age Grades are promptly informed of any Emergency Conference.
- It shall be compulsory for every Branch to attend Emergency Conference. Failure to attend shall be liable to a fine of half the penalties for the General Conference.
- Emergency Conference shall have the same powers as General Conference and shall deal only with matters for which is summoned.
SECTION 29 – CENTRAL COUNCIL MEETINGS
- Meetings of the Central Council shall be held at least once every month or at the instance of the President – General on in his absence, the Deputy President-General.
- Lateness at meetings of the Central Council shall attract a fine of N100.00 per person, payable on the spot. A member shall be deemed to be late if he arrives after the opening prayers.
- Intention to be absent from Central Council meetings should be communicated to the Secretary-General in writing, giving reasons for the intended absence. The Central Council shall consider the plea for approval or rejection.
- All absence not approved by the Central Council shall be subject to a penalty of N200.00, payable on the next attendance of meeting by the offender.
- Sponsors of any member who is absent at more than two consecutive meetings of the Central Council without acceptable reasons, shall be requested to replace the offending representative.
SECTION 30 – HOME MEETINGS (IZU)
- The Izu shall be a meeting of all citizens of Amawbia at home summoned to inform, discuss and resolve current issues affecting the town. The Izu shall be summoned at the instance of the Okpaligwe, the President-General or in his absence the Deputy- President General.
- The Isi – Isiakpu or the Council of Okokpa subject to Okpaligwe or the President General approval or in his absence, the Deputy President General provided that Okpaligwe, President General or in his absence Deputy President General shall be informed of every proposed Izu.
SECTION 31 – MASS RETURN
- There shall be a Compulsory Mass Return of all Amawbia citizens abroad with their family once every three years.
- The said Mass Return period shall coincide with the General Conference for that year.
- The Publicity Secretary shall publicize the timing and programme for each Mass Return.
- The Central Council shall be responsible for summoning and organizing the Mass Return activities including its General Conference for which it shall give two months notice and provide all relevant information.
SECTION 32 – EZIOKPALIGWE FESTIVAL
- The Eziokpaligwe Festival shall be celebrated every year during the month of March to usher in the year’s farming season. The Central council shall be responsible for the timing and organization of the festival.
- Participations in the festival at Eziokpaligwe square shall be mandatory for all citizens at home.
- All, shops belonging to Amawbia citizens shall be closed from 12noon to 6pm on Eziokpaligwe days.
SECTION 33 – QUORUM FOR MEETINGS
- The quorum at the General Conference shall be 50 provided that at least three Branches of the Union are represented.
- The quorum for an Emergency Conference shall be 25, provided that at least two Branches of the Union are represented.
- The quorum for Central Council meetings shall be 15 members as well as the representatives of at least one Branch of the Union.
SECTION 34 – PUBLICITY
- There shall be a monthly newsletter which shall contain summaries of decisions taken at the Central Council meetings and major news events from home and abroad. Copies shall be distributed free to all Branches, Villages, Age Grades and members of the central Council. Other members requiring copies shall receive supply on payment of an amount as shall from time to time determined by the Central Council.
- There shall be an annual summary of the Town’s activities, its people and achievements, prepared in the form of an article for general circulation through the mass/social media. The article which shall be prepared by the Publicity Secretary shall be approved by the President-General.
SECTION 35 – PENALTIES FOR NON-PAYMENT OF LEVIES
- Branch Unions, Villages and Age Grade shall take appropriate measures to motivate their members to pay their duties.
- Any citizen who, regardless of such measures, fails to pay the Annual Recurrent Levy for more than the year of a current General Conference, and any special levies or fines for such periods as may be defined at the time of levy or imposition or if abroad, fails to enroll in his Branch Union, shall: –
- Not be allowed to make any improvement whatsoever or howsoever in Amawbia Town land.
- Not be permitted to speak, vote or be voted for at any meeting or conference of the Amawbia Town Union.
- Be expelled from the meeting of his Village, Branch Union, Age Grade, kindred and other Associations in Amawbia.
- On his death, and if qualified, be buried by members of his/her religious sect only. There shall be neither pre, nor post burial mourning/condolence visits (ndasu/idabani/okwukwa/mgbalu) except by members of his/her immediate family (Ndi Ime Uno not Umunna).
- Any citizen who contravenes section 34 Sub – Section 1 (d) above shall pay the sum of N50,000.00 within three months or face consequences as shall be decided by the Central Council. The Isi – Isiakpu shall monitor contravention of Section 34 Sub – section 1(d) above in each, Village and ensure payment of the penalty N50,000.00.
SECTION 36 – UNPARTRIOTIC ACTS
- All decisions of the Amawbia Town Union shall be binding on all citizens. Any grievances by individuals or groups against the town shall be settled internally, and not be subject of any kind of litigation in courts.
- Any deliberate act against the aims and objectives set out in Section 3 of this Constitution shall be regarded as sabotage against the town.
- Any offence committed under this Section shall be subject to the penalties as set out in Section 34 Sub Section 2(a) – (d) of this Constitution. Such offenders who subsequently demonstrate genuine repentance, shall be cleared and re-admitted on full payment of all dues, fines and any other conditions as may be determined by the Central Council.
- Expulsions consequent on offences against Sections 34 and 35 shall result in the loss of all rights and privileges.
SECTION 37 – ORDER OF PRECEDENCE IN AMAWBIA
- In terms of status within Amawbia, the following order of precedence for personalities shall apply: –
- The Okpaligwe of Amawbia.
- The Osojeze of Amawbia (Traditional Prime Minister).
- The President-general of Amawbia Town Union.
- The Deputy President-general of Amawbia Town Union.
- Members of the Okpaligwe’s Council.
- Traditional Title Holders (Nze na Ozo).
- Chieftaincy Title Holders.
- Members of the Central Council.
SECTION 38 – AMENDMENTS TO THIS CONSTITUTION
- Amendments to this Constitution shall be made only by the General Conference.
- Any proposed amendment shall first be circulated to all ATU Branches, Village, and Age Grades at least Three Months before General Conference. All comments from ATU Branches, Villages, and Age grades shall be received and documented at least one month before the General Conference.
- An amendment to this Constitution shall be valid only if accepted by two thirds of the votes of eligible members present at the General Conference at which it is considered.
- Matters not specifically covered by the provisions of this constitution and which shall not involve the amendment of this Constitution, may be deliberated upon and decided, and subject to approval by simple majority of the members present at a properly constituted meeting of the Union, shall be valid decisions of the Union.
SECTION 39 – COMMENCEMENT
This revised version of the 1987 Constitution of Amawbia Town Union was passed by the Mass Return General Conference of Amawbia Town Union held at ………………………………………………………………. This Constitution shall take immediate effect and notwithstanding its provisions, all actions and decisions of the Union prior to the passing of this version remain valid and binding.
SCHEDULE 1
OATH OF OFFICE FOR THE OKPALIGWE OF AMAWBIA
I,……………………………………………………… a citizen of Amawbia having been installed as the Okpaligwe of Amawbia, do hereby solemnly declare that I will at all times, faithfully discharge the functions of my office as Okpaligwe of Amawbia in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of Amawbia town Union dealing with the Traditional Ruler of Amawbia Town.
I will preserve truth and justice and observe, obey and uphold the customs and traditions of Amawbia Town. I will protect the interests and integrity of Amawbia Community and Town, which I will always place above those of any other town, or person or section of Amawbia Town. I will protect, defend and uphold the Constitution of Amawbia Town Union.
I will relinquish the stool of Okpaligwe of Amawbia whenever so required by the Amawbia Community in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of Amawbia Town.
Finally, I pledge my loyalty to the Amawbia community, the Government of Anambra State and the federal government of Nigeria.
So help me God.
SCHEDULE 2
OATH OF OFFICE FOR OSOJEZE OF AMAWBIA
(TRADITIONAL PRIME MINISTER)
I,…………………………………………………a citizen of Amawbia having been installed as the Osojeze of Amawbia, do hereby solemnly declare that I will at all times, faithfully discharge the functions of my office as Osojeze of Amawbia in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of Amawbia Town Union. I will assist and support the Okpaligwe of Amawbia in the discharge of his functions, and will truthfully and honestly offer to the Okpaligwe of Amawbia such advice as will in the circumstances be in the overall interest of Amawbia Community and Town. I will relinquish the position of Osojeze of Amawbia whenever so required by the Amawbia community in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of Amawbia Town.
Finally, I pledge my loyalty to the Amawbia community in general.
So help me God.
SCHEDULE 3
OATH OF OFFICE FOR MEMBER OF OKPALIGWE’S COUNCIL
I,…………………………………………………a citizen of Amawbia having been installed as a Member of the Okpaligwe’s Council of Amawbia Town, do hereby solemnly declare that I will at all times, faithfully assist and/or support the Okpaligwe of Amawbia in the discharge of his functions. I will truthfully and honesty offer to the Okpaligwe such advice as will in the circumstances be in the overall interest of Amawbia Community and Town. I shall cease to be a member of the Council as soon as I lose the position by which I become a member of found wanting by the Okpaligwe 1 of Amawbia Town.
Finally, I pledge my loyalty to Amawbia community.
So help me God.
SCHEDULE 4
OATH OF OFFICE FOR THE PRESIDENT-GENERAL
OF AMAWBIA TOWN UNION
I,…………………………………………………a citizen of Amawbia having been elected as the President-General of Amawbia Town Union for the three year period beginning 1st January, 20…………., do hereby solemnly declare that I will at all times, faithfully discharge the functions of my office as President-General, as provided for in the Constitution of Amawbia Town Union. I will preserve truth and justice and ensure impartiality in all my decisions. I will protect the interests and integrity of Amawbia Community and Town, which I will always place above those of any other towns or persons or sections of Amawbia Town. I will protect, defend and uphold the Constitution of Amawbia Town Union. I shall cease to function as President-General at the end of my term of office unless I am re-elected or if my term of office is terminated in accordance with the Constitution of Amawbia Town Union.
Finally, I pledge my loyalty to the Amawbia Community.
So help me God.
SCHEDULE 5
OATH OF OFFICE FOR THE DEPUTY PRESIDENT-GENERAL/TREASURER-GENERAL/PUBLICITY SECRETARY OF THE TOWN UNION
I,…………………………………………………a citizen of Amawbia, having been elected as the Deputy President-General/Treasurer/Publicity Secretary of Amawbia town Union for the period beginning ………………… do hereby solemnly declare that I will at all times, faithfully discharge the functions of my office as Deputy President-General/Treasurer/Publicity Secretary, as provided for in the Constitution of Amawbia town Union. I will assist and/or support the President-General in the discharge of legitimate functions and will truthfully and honestly offer to the President-General, such advice as will in the circumstances be in the overall interest of Amawbia Community and Town. I shall cease to function as Deputy President-General/treasurer-General/Publicity Secretary, at the end of my term of office unless I am re-elected or if my term of office is terminated in accordance with constitution of Amawbia Town Union.
Finally, I pledge my loyalty to Amawbia Community.
So help me God.
SCHEDULE 6
OATH OF OFFICE FOR THE CENTRAL COUNCIL
OF AMAWBIA TOWN UNION
I,…………………………………………………a citizen of Amawbia, having been elected for the period beginning ………………… as a member of the Central Council of Amawbia Town Union, do hereby solemnly declare that I will at all times, faithfully discharge the functions of my membership of the Central Council as provided for in the Constitution of Amawbia Town Union. I will ensure truth, justice and impartiality in all my actions and in the decisions and actions of the Central Council. I will do my best to protect the interests and integrity of Amawbia Community and Town, which I will always place above those of any other town or person or section of Amawbia Town.
I shall cease to function as a member of the Central Council at the end of my term of office unless I am re-elected or if my term of office is terminated in accordance with the Constitution of Amawbia Town Union.
Finally, I pledge my loyalty to Amawbia community.
So help me God.
SCHEDULE 7
OATH OF OFFICE FOR MEMBER OF THE CENTRAL COUNCIL
OF AMAWBIA TOWN UNION
I,…………………………………………………a citizen of Amawbia, having been elected for the period beginning ………………… as a member of the Central Council of Amawbia Town Union, do hereby solemnly declare that I will at all times, faithfully discharge the functions of my membership of the Central Council as provided for in the Constitution of Amawbia Town Union. I will ensure truth, justice and impartiality in all my actions and in the decisions and actions of the Central Council. I will do my best to protect the interests and integrity of Amawbia Community and Town, which I will always place above those of any other town or person or section of Amawbia Town.
I shall cease to function as a member of the Central Council at the end of my term of office unless I am re-elected or if my term of office is terminated in accordance with the Constitution of Amawbia Town Union.
Finally, I pledge my loyalty to Amawbia Community.
So help me God.
SCHEDULE 8
OATH OF OFFICE FOR PRINCIPAL PAID OFFICERS OF THE CENTRAL COUNCIL OF AMAWBIA TOWN UNION
I,…………………………………………………a citizen of Amawbia, having been appointed to the paid office of …………………… of Amawbia Town Union, do hereby solemnly declare that I will at all times, faithfully discharge the functions of my office as provided for in the Constitution of Amawbia Town Union. I will ensure truth, justice honesty and impartiality in all my actions, and in the decision of the Central Council of Amawbia and Amawbia Community. I will do my best to protect the interest and integrity of Amawbia Community and Town, which I will always place above those of any other town or person or section of Amawbia Town. I will always keep secret; all matters that come to my knowledge by virtue of my office, unless authorized to divulge such matters.
Finally, I pledge my loyalty to Amawbia Community.
So help me God.
SCHEDULE 9
LIST OF STANDING COMMITTEES
- Land Committee.
- Security Committee.
- Legal Committee.
- Audit Committee.
- Budget Committee.
SIGNED
____________________ ____________________
Dr. John Ndibe Barr. Agozie Okonkwo
Chairman Secretary
Constitution Review Committee Constitution Review Committee
_____________________
Mr. Anthony Muo
Secretary General, Amawbia Town Union
________________________
Engr. Chris Nwoye
President-General
Amawbia Town Union