COMPLIANCE WITH INTERNAL REVENUE REQUIREMENTS
THE PROPERTY OF THIS CORPORATION IS IRREVOCABLY DEDICATED TO CHARITABLE PURPOSES, AND NO PART OF THE NET INCOME OR ASSETS OF THIS ASSOCIATION SHALL EVER INURE TO THE BENEFIT OF OR BE DISTRIBUTED TO ITS MEMBERS, TRUSTEES, OFFICERS, OR OTHER PRIVATE PERSONS, EXCEPT THAT THE ORGANIZATION SHALL BE AUTHORIZED AND EMPOWERED TO PAY REASONABLE COMPENSATION OR TO MAKE PAYMENTS FOR SERVICES RENDERED ON BEHALF OF THE ORGANIZATION UPON THE DISSOLUTION OR WINDING UP OF THE ASSOCIATION, ITS ASSETS, AFTER PAYMENT OR PROVISION FOR PAYMENTS OF ALL DEBTS, SHALL BE DISTRIBUTED TO A NONPROFIT FUND, FOUNDATION, ASSOCIATION, OR ORGANIZATION OPERATED EXCLUSIVELY FOR CHARITABLE PURPOSES THAT HAS ESTABLISHED ITS TAX-EXEMPT STATUS LINDER SECTION 501(C)(3) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.
STATE LAW
THIS ASSOCIATION IS ORGANIZED PURSUANT TO THE GENERAL NONPROFIT CORPORATION LAW.
CONTINENT: – UMU-OKPU NGWA ASSOCIATION USA AND DIASPORA INC; UNDERSTANDS THAT EVERY COUNTRY’S RULES AND REGULATIONS’ ARE DIFFERENT AND, THEREFORE, WILL ABIDE BY THAT COUNTRY’S RULES AND REGULATIONS.
FOUNDER/EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT/CEO: OTUODICHINMA CHRISTY OCHULOR NWANKPA
CO-FOUNDERS: DR. ETHEL AJUZIE -NWANDU, GIFT NKWACHI ONWUNALI, MRS. CHINYERE
AUGUSTINA NWAKANMA BLESSING NGOZI OCHULOR, LINDA CHIAMAKA NWAKANMA, AND JOYCE
NKECHI NWANKPA
BOARD OF TRUSTEES/DIRECTORS: FOUNDER – CHAIR, VICE
CHAIR, SECRETARY, AND ALL OTHER CO-FOUNDERS ARE MEMBERS
BOARD OF ADVISORY/PATRONS CHAIR, VICE
CHAIR, SECRETARY, TWO OTHER MEMBERS,
CHAPTER EXECUTIVES (PRESIDENT; VICE PRESIDENT; GENERAL SECRETARY; ASSIST
SECRETARY; TREASURER; FINANCIAL SECRETARY; ASSISTANT FINANCIAL; SOCIAL
SECRETARY/PUBLICITY RELATION OFFICER (PRO), ASSISTANT SOCIAL SECRETARY/PUBLIC RELATION OFFICER
(PRO)
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP
ANY LOCAL CHAPTER OF UONAUSAAD SHALL BE KNOWN AS: – UMU- OKPU NGWA ASSOCIATION
USA AND DIASPORA INC. (UONAUSAAD) – CHAPTER’S NAME (E.G., ABA MAIN LAND CHAPTER NIGERIA)
SECTION 3.1 Mission Statement: TO UNIFY NGWA COMMUNITIES; MAINTAIN NGWA RICH CULTURE AND VALUES; PROVIDE SERVICE, CHARITABLE GIVING, EDUCATIONAL ENRICHMENT, AND SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL DAUGHTERS OFNGWA LAND AND IN THE DIASPORA.
SECTION 3.2 VISION: TO HAVE A SUSTAINABLE ORGANIZATION WITHIN OUR MORAL COMMUNITY FOR A GOOD QUALITY OF LIFE
SECTION 3.3 VALUES: RESPECT, OPENNESS, TEAMWORK, ACCOUNTABILITY, NON-DISCRIMINATION, AND SERVICE DELIVERY.
SECTION 4. 1 TO MAINTAIN NGWA CULTURE AND VALUES BY IDENTIFYING AND UPHOLDING NGWA HISTORY, BELIEFS, TRADITIONS AND CULTURE
4.2 TO CREATE COMMON GROUNDS FOR LOVE, TRUST, PEACE, UNITY, AND UNDERSTANDING AMONG ALL DAUGHTERS OF NGWA LAND AND THEIR CHILDREN EVERYWHERE.
4.3 TO IMPROVE AND MAINTAIN ALA NGWA TO HAVE A LEGACY OF VALUES AND BELIEFS FROM WHICH OUR CHILDREN CAN BENEFIT, APPRECIATE, SHARE, AND EXCHANGE
4.4 TO ENCOURAGE DAUGHTERS OF NGWA LAND PARTICIPATION IN DECISION-MAKING CIRCLES AT THE VILLAGE, L.G.A., STATE, NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL LEVELS.
4.5. TO PLAN FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENTS, HEALTH, AND FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY FOR ALL DAUGHTERS OF NGWA LAND, UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES, AND DIASPORA.
SECTION 5: 1: MEMBERSHIP SHALL CONSIST OF ALL DAUGHTERS OF AN NGWA MAN, EITHER BY BIRTH
OR LEGAL ADOPTION BY AN NGWA MAN, WHO MEET AND MAINTAIN ALL FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS.
UMU-OKPU NGWA ASSOCIATION USA AND DIASPORA INC; CHAPTER CAN BE FORMED IN ANY CITY ALL OVER THE WORLD WHERE NGWA PEOPLE RESIDE.
SECTION 6.1 REGISTRATION
MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION FEES SHALL BE ONE-TIME FEES AS DETERMINED BY THE CHAPTER
CHAPTER REGISTRATION TO THE INTERNATIONAL BODY IS ONE-TIME $50.00(FIFTY DOLLARS OR ITS EQUIVALENT) FOR COUNTRIES OUTSIDE AFRICA, BUT FOR COUNTRIES WITHIN AFRICA WILL BE $15.00 (FIFTEEN DOLLARS OR ITS EQUIVALENT).
SECTION 6.2 MEMBERSHIP DUES: A. CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP DUES SHALL BE DETERMINED BY THE CHAPTER.
B. INTERNATIONAL MEMBERSHIP DUES ARE $10.00(TEN DOLLARS OR ITS EQUIVALENT) ANNUALLY FOR MEMBERS RESIDING OUTSIDE AFRICA AND $2.50 (TWO DOLLARS AND FIFTY OR ITS EQUIVALENT) FOR THOSE MEMBERS INSIDE AFRICA. EVERY CHAPTER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR COLLECTING THE INTERNATIONAL DUES FROM THEIR MEMBERS AND REMITTING THE SAME TO THE INTERNATIONAL ACCOUNT.
SECTION 7.1: CHAPTER /MEMBER ANNUAL DUES
EVERY CHAPTER/MEMBER IS REQUIRED TO PAY ANNUAL DUES PER INTERNATIONAL/ CHAPTER BYLAW. ANNUAL DUES ARE PAYABLE ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 31 ST OF EACH YEAR. ANY MEMBER NOT IN FINANCIAL GOOD STANDING BY DECEMBER 31 OF EACH YEAR WILL AUTOMATICALLY BE CONSIDERED DELINQUENT AND, THEREFORE, INELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE ANYBENEFIT.
SECTION 8.1 GENERAL MEETINGS SHALL BE HELD AS PER CHAPTER BY LAW
8.2 QUORUM
THE QUORUM SHALL CONSIST OF 10 OR MORE FINANCIALLY ACTIVE MEMBERS
8.3 VOTING* MOTION
WHO GETS TO VOTE? EVERY FINANCIALLY ACTIVE MEMBER
*WHAT PERCENTAGE OF VOTES NEEDS TO BE CAST IN FAVOR OF PASSING A MOTION? SIMPLE MAJORITY
8.4 SPECIAL MEETINGS: EMERGENCY/REGULAR/ADVISORY
*WHO CAN CALL THEM?
A. EMERGENCY CHAPTER MEETINGS- CHAPTER PRESIDENT AND AS PER CONSTITUTION/BYLAW
B. BI-ANNUAL COMBINED INTERNATIONAL MEETINGS: EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT PER CONSTITUTION
D. ADVISORY’S MEETINGS: PATRONS/ADVISORY’S CHAIR
*HOW MUCH NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN? EMERGENCY –1 TO 7 DAYS
8.5 WHAT IS THE ATTENDANCE POLICY? –
A. EXCUSED/UNEXCUSED ABSENCE: MISSING 2 MEETINGS WITHOUT EXCUSE (BY THE ENTIRE CHAPTER)
B. WHO SHOULD ATTEND THE BI-ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL MEETING? THE CHAPTER PRESIDENTS AND THEIR SECRETARIES AND ALL THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND BOARD OF THE ADVORIY’S MEMBERS
SANCTIONS FOR UNEXCUSED ABSENCES: – AFTER MISSING 2 MEETINGS (OUTREACH CALL); AFTER ANY CHAPTER or MEMBER IS MISSING 2 MEETINGS– LOSS OF MEMBERSHIP
C. THE CHAPTER OR A MEMBER MAY RETURN AS A NEW MEMBER AND REREGISTER AGAIN WITH A PAYMENT OF THE REGISTRATION FEE
SECTION 9: 1 RULES, REGULATIONS:
A. NO TWO SISTERS SHALL BE EXECUTIVES AT THE SAME TIME (BUT THEY CAN BE IN DIFFERENT OFFICES LIKE
BOARD OR ADVISORY).
B. NO TWO EXECUTIVE ACCOUNT SIGNATORY MEMBERS SHALL COME FROM THE SAME CITY.
C. NO MEMBER WILL HOLD TWO EXECUTIVE OFFICES AT THE SAME TIME (BUT THEY CAN BE IN DIFFERENT
OFFICES LIKE BOARD OR ADVISORY).
D. ANY CHAPTER WISHING TO JOIN UONAUSAAD SHOULD NOTIFY THE OF THE HEADQUARTERS IN NEW YORK FOR A CRITERIA REVIEW
SECTION 9.2: OPEN BID CONTRACTS ALL CONTRACTS:
A. ANY CONTRACTS WITH UMU- OKPU NGWA ASSOCIATIONS USA AND DIASPORA INC. MUST BE
AGREED BY MEMBERS, AND THE LOWEST BIDDER WILL WIN THE CONTRACT B. EVERY MEMBER HAS AN EQUAL RIGHT TO BID ON CONTRACTS PROVIDED THEIR PROFESSIONALISM IS INVESTIGATED AND APPROVED.
C. WHERE THERE IS NO SPECIALIST AMONG THE MEMBERS, THEN THE BIDDING WILL BE OPEN TO
THE PUBLIC.
D. WHEN CONTRACTS ARE AWARDED TO AN INDIVIDUAL (S), THE ASSOCIATION IS NOT LIABLE
FOR ANY LOSSES INCURRED FROM THAT CONTRACT.
E. THE ASSOCIATION RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REFUSE PAYMENT FOR UNSATISFACTORY WORK
/JOB.
F. ALL BIDS MUST BE VOTED ON AND APPROVED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY WITH A SIMPLE
MAJORITY
MEMBERS IN GOOD FINANCIAL STANDING SHALL RECEIVE BENEFITS FOR THE FOLLOWING SITUATIONS/EVENTS WHEN THE ASSOCIATION IS PROPERLY NOTIFIED THROUGH THE GENERAL SECRETARY OF THAT CHAPTER. BENEFITS PER INTERNATIONAL/CHAPTER BYLAW. THE BENEFIT WILL BE PRORATED FROM 6 MONTHS FOR DEATHS AND ONE YEAR FOR HAPPY EVENTS. THE ASSOCIATION SHOULD BE INVITED 90 DAYS IN ADVANCE BEFORE ANY CEREMONY.
SECTION 11.1. THE MANAGEMENT OF THE UMU- OKPU NGWA ASSOCIATION USA AND DIASPORA INC.
(UONAUSAAD) INTERNATIONAL BODY SHALL BE VESTED IN THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS/TRUSTTEES.
THIS IS A PERMANENT OFFICE. (IF IN CASE OF ANY EVENTUALITIES, THE FOUNDER/CO FOUNDERS/PATRONS WILL DELIBERATE AND FILL THE VACANCY BASED ON THE MOST QUALIFIED)
SECTION 11. 2. BOARD OF DIRECTORS/ TRUSTEES: – SHALL CONSIST OF THE FOUNDER AND CO-
FOUNDERS, AND THEY ARE THE OVERSEERS OF THE ASSOCIATION
SECTION 11. 3. PATRONS/ BOARD OF ADVISORY- PROVIDE NON-BINDING STRATEGIC ADVICE AND SUPPORT TO UONAUSAAD BOARD OF DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVES, AND MEMBERS. THIS IS A PERMANENT OFFICE. (IF IN CASE OF ANY EVENTUALITIES, THE FOUNDER/CO-FOUNDERS/PATRONS WILL DELIBERATE AND FILL THE VACANCY BASED ON THE MOST QUALIFIED)
SECTION 11.4. THE MANAGEMENT OF THE UMU- OKPU NGWA ASSOCIATION USA AND DIASPORA INC.
(UONAUSAAD) LOCAL CHAPTERS SHALL BE VESTED IN EXECUTIVES. THE CHAPTER EXECUTIVES ARE
ELECTED EVERY THREE YEARS.
SECTION 11.5 GENERAL MEMBERSHIP SHALL BE THE REPRESENTATIVE BODY OF THE ASSOCIATION AND
SHALL CONSIST OF LOCAL CHAPTERS.
SECTION 12.1 THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS/TRUSTEES SHALL:
1. Be the policy-making body of the Association.
2. Review and sign annual reports of the Association.
3. Meet bi-annually and as needed. APPROPRIATE ALL MAJOR EXPENDITURES TO BE MADE BY THE EXECUTIVE .
4. Review and approve amendments to the bylaws
5. Shall invite prospective donors to UONAUSAAD events to donate funds.
6. Review and approve the budget, the organization's investment policy, and plans to open or close
banking and other financial accounts of the associations
7. Be prepared to authorize lawsuits by the organization, receive them, and dispose of them either
by settlement agreed upon by them or otherwise, if necessary.
8. Authorize liability, bonding, and other insurance and indemnification.
9. Require accountability, transparency and protect the identity and integrity of the Association.
10. The founder shall be the chair of the Board of Directors/Trustees and shall attend all the
Associations/executive meetings and be ex-official to every committee
11. The FOUNDER/BOARD OF Directors/ TRUSTEES CHAIR SHALL SWEAR-IN/INAUGURATE/INDUCT ALL
ELECTED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OR DELEGATIONS.
12. Uphold the Constitution of the Association, including all policies, rules, and regulations pursuant
heretofore.
13. THE CO-FOUNDERS/BOARD OF TRUSTTEES SHALL Assist the FOUNDER/BOARD OF TRUSTTEES
CHAIR in the performance of her duties and shall act in her capacity upon request or when she is
physically unable to perform the duties of the office on Delegation.
14. Shall act on behalf of the Association in exercising oversight responsibilities relative to the
executives
15. ONE OF THE BOARDS OF Directors/ TRUSTEES (CHAIR) SHALL BE ONE OF THE FOUR SIGNATORIES TO THE
UMU-OKPU NGWA ASSOCIATION BANK ACCOUNT(S) OR FINANCIAL ASSET(S) AND SHALL ONLY SIGN WHEN NEED BE.
12.2 PATRONS/ BOARD OF ADVISORY SHALL
1. PROVIDE NON-BINDING STRATEGIC ADVICE AND SUPPORT TO UONAUSAAD BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVES AND MEMBERS.
2. RESOLVE DISPUTES BETWEEN MEMBERS WHEN MEMBERS INVOLVED ARE NOT ABLE TO RESOLVE SUCH DISPUTES BY THEMSELVES.
3. RESOLVE DISPUTES BETWEEN THE PATRONS/ADVISERS AND EXECUTIVES WHEN BOTH ARE NOT ABLE TO RESOLVE SUCH DISPUTES BY THEMSELVES.
4. CONTRIBUTE THEIR EXPERTISE AND THINKING TO THE CURRENT AND FUTURE WORK OF UMU – OKPU NGWA.
5. SUGGEST ACTIONS TO THE EXECUTIVE BY PROVIDING VALUABLE ASSISTANCE TO THE UMU – OKPU NGWA.
6. ONE OF THE PATRONS (PATRON’S CHAIR) SHALL BE ONE OF THE SIGNATORIES TO THE UMU-OKPU NGWA ASSOCIATION
BANK ACCOUNT(S) OR FINANCIAL ASSET(S) AND SHALL ONLY SIGN WHEN NEED BE.
7. PATRONS/ BOARD OF ADVISORY SHALL NOT BE MORE THAN FIVE MEMBERS. THE PATRONS/ BOARD OF
ADVISORY IS A PERMANENTOFFICE (IF IN CASE OF ANY EVENTUALITIES, THE FOUNDER/CO-FOUNDERS/PATRONS WILL DELIBERATE AND FILL THE VACANCY BASED ON THE MOST QUALIFIED.)
SECTION 12 .3: THE EXECUTIVE OF THE ASSOCIATION SHALL CONSIST OF PRESIDENT, VICE PRESIDENT; GENERAL SECRETARY; ASSIT SECRETARY; TREASURER, FINANCIAL SECRETARY; ASSISTANT FINANCIAL SECRETARY; SOCIAL SECRETARY/ PUBLIC RELATION OFFICER (PRO), ASSISTANT SOCIAL SECRETARY/PUBLIC RELATION OFFICER/PRO
SECTION 12.3.6. FINANCIAL SECRETARY: THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SHALL:
1. HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR PREPARING, MAINTAINING, AND KEEPING CUSTODY OF ALL THE ASSOCIATION’S
FINANCIAL RECORDS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CHECKBOOK DISBURSEMENTS, DUES, PAYMENTS, PAID AND
UNPAID INVOICES, AND ALL FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND TRANSACTIONS.
2. HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR COLLECTING, RECEIVING, AND MAINTAINING RECORDS OF ALL FUNDS DUE TO THE
ASSOCIATION, AND SHALL DELIVER SUCH FUNDS TO THE TREASURER FOR DEPOSIT TO THE ASSOCIATION’S BANK ACCOUNT
WITHIN SEVEN (7) WORKING DAYS OF RECEIPT.
SECTION 12.3.1: PRESIDENT/COO: THE PRESIDENT OF THE UONAUSAAD
1. THE PRESIDENT SHALL BE THE CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER (C.O.O.) AND SPOKESPERSON OF THE
ASSOCIATION.
2. BE DIRECTLY ACCOUNTABLE TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES/ DIRECTORS
3. SUPERVISE AND CONTROL ALL OPERATIONS OF THE ORGANIZATION AS DIRECTED BY THE BOARD OF
TRUSTEES/DIRECTORS.
4. SUMMON AND PRESIDE OVER GENERAL MEETINGS AND THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AS WELL AS OTHER
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES OF THE ASSOCIATION AS DIRECTED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES/DIRECTORS.
5. CAST THE DECIDING VOTE IN CASE OF A TIE AT THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
5. BE RESPONSIBLE FOR MAJOR POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE ASSOCIATION TO THE BOARD OF
TRUSTEES/DIRECTORS.
6. SHALL BE ONE OF THE SIGNATORIES TO THE ASSOCIATION’S BANK ACCOUNTS, AS WELL AS OTHER INVESTMENT
DOCUMENTS AS DIRECTED BY THE ASSOCIATION’S CONSTITUTION.
7. NOMINATE INTERIM REPLACEMENTS FOR EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OFFICERS WHO ARE UNABLE TO CONTINUE FOR THE REMAINDER OF THEIR TENURE BY THE APPROVAL OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES/ DIRECTORS. SUCH REPLACEMENTS SHALL SERVE ONLY FOR THE REMAINING PERIOD IN THE TENURE OF THE OFFICIAL WHO WAS REPLACED UNTIL THE NEXT SCHEDULED ELECTION FOR THE OFFICE.
8. FORMALLY HAND OVER ALL ASSETS AND RECORDS OF THE ASSOCIATION TO AN INCOMING PRESIDENT
9. PERFORM ALL DUTIES AS MAY BE ASSIGNED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSSTEES/DIRECTORS.
10. NOMINATE MEMBERS OF STANDING/ADHOC COMMITTEES FOR BOARD OF TRUSSTEES/DIRECTORS
APPROVAL.
11. UPHOLD THE ASSOCIATION CONSTITUTION, INCLUDING ALL POLICIES, RULES, AND REGULATIONS PURSUANT HERETOFORE.
12. PRESENT AN ANNUAL “STATE OF THE ASSOCIATION” MESSAGE TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY DURING THE 3 RD SUNDAY OF JANUARY OF EACH YEAR. COPIES OF THE MESSAGE SHOULD BE AVAILABLE TO MEMBERS THROUGH THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE, POSTAL MAIL, OR OTHER MEANS OF MASS COMMUNICATION.
13. THE PRESIDENT’S SPENDING AUTHORITY RELATED TO ANNUAL BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS SHALL BE GUIDED BY REGULAR AND TIMELY CONSULTATIONS WITH THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND IN THE GENERAL CONTEXT OF THE STIPULATIONS ARE PROVIDED IN THIS CONSTITUTION. THE PRESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE AUTHORITY TO SPEND, WITHOUT CONSEQUENT APPROVAL OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OR THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, A MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF $100 PER QUARTER FOR DISCRETIONARY AND MISCELLANEOUS EXPENDITURES RELATED TO THE MISSION, PURPOSE, AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE ASSOCIATION. ALL RECEIPTS FROM SUCH EXPENDITURES MUST BE PROPERLY SUBMITTED TO
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY.
14. IN CONSULTATION WITH OTHER EXECUTIVE MEMBERS, THE PRESIDENT SHALL PREPARE AND SUBMIT TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES/DIRECTORS ALL FINANCIAL RECORDS WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE END OF THE YEAR (DECEMBER31ST) FOR AUDIT REVIEW.
SECTION 12.3.2. THE VICE PRESIDENT: THE VICE PRESIDENT SHALL:
1. ASSIST THE PRESIDENT IN HER DUTIES.
2. DEPUTIZE FOR THE PRESIDENT DURING THE PRESIDENT’S ABSENCE OR WHEN DELEGATED TO DO SO BY THE PRESIDENT.
3. HAVE THE POWERS OF THE PRESIDENT WHEN ACTING IN HER CAPACITY.
4. BE DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN ORGANIZING SOCIAL EVENTS FOR THE ASSOCIATION.
SECTION 12:3.3. THE GENERAL SECRETARY-: THE GENERAL SECRETARY SHALL:
1. RECORD THE MINUTES OF ALL MEETINGS OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND MEETINGS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE ASSOCIATION.
2. THE MINUTES OF EACH MEETING SHALL BE PRESENTED AT THE NEXT MEETING .
3. KEEP CURRENT AND PREVIOUS COPIES OF THE CONSTITUTION.
4. KEEP ATTENDANCE RECORDS OF ALL ASSOCIATION MEETINGS .
5. ENSURE THAT EACH MEMBER OF THE ASSOCIATION AND ALL OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION SHALL HAVE A COPY OF THE ASSOCIATION’S CONSTITUTION.
6. PREPARE AND DISTRIBUTE PRIOR NOTICE AND AGENDA OF ASSOCIATION MEETINGS TO MEMBERS WITHIN AREASONABLE TIME FRAME IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE PRESIDENT.
7. PERFORM SUCH OTHER DUTIES AS MAY BE ASSIGNED BY THE EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT.
8. SERVE IN A STANDING AND/OR AD HOC COMMITTEE AT THE REQUEST OF THE PRESIDENT.
SECTION 12.3.4. ASSISTANT SECRETARY GENERAL: THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY GENERAL
SHALL:
1. ASSIST THE NATIONAL SECRETARY GENERAL IN CARRYING OUT THE FUNCTIONS OF THE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY.
2. IN THE ABSENCE OF THE NATIONAL SECRETARY GENERAL, THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY SHALL STAND IN FOR THE GENERAL SECRETARY AND PERFORM THE DUTIES AND EXERCISE THE POWERS OF THE SECRETARY GENERAL.
SECTION 12.3.5. TREASURER: THE TREASURER SHALL:
1. ENSURE THE SAFETY OF ALL THE FUNDS OF THE ASSOCIATION.
2. ENSURE THAT ALL MONIES COLLECTED ON BEHALF OF THE ASSOCIATION ARE DEPOSITED IN THE
ASSOCIATION’S BANK ACCOUNT WITHIN THREE (3) CALENDAR DAYS AFTER RECEIPT OF SUCH
FUNDS
3. MAINTAIN ACCURATE RECORDS OF ALL FINANCIAL DISBURSEMENTS MADE BY THE ASSOCIATION.
4. BE ONE OF THE SIGNATORIES TO THE ASSOCIATION’S BANK ACCOUNT(S) OR FINANCIAL
ASSET(S).
5. WORK WITH THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO ENSURE THE TIMELY SUBMISSION OF ALL FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS TO AUTHORIZED AGENTS/REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ASSOCIATION OR APPROPRIATE
GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES AS REQUIRED BY LAW.
6. WORKING WITH THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY AND OTHER OFFICERS, SUBMIT TO THE MEMBERS
THROUGH THE PRESIDENT FOR AUDIT REVIEW ALL FINANCIAL RECORDS WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS
AFTER HER TERM OF OFFICE.
7. COMPLYING STRICTLY WITH THE ASSOCIATION’S REQUIREMENT, ALL DISBURSEMENTS OUT OF THE
ASSOCIATION’S ACCOUNT MUST FOLLOW THIS CONSTITUTION.
8. PROVIDE ALL FINANCIAL AND BANKING RECORDS TO THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND
AUTHORIZED AUDITORS UPON REQUEST.
9. AT THE END OF EACH YEAR, THE PRESIDENT, FINANCIAL SECRETARY, AND THE TREASURER SHALL
PROVIDE THE MEMBERS WITH A SUMMARY STATEMENT ITEMIZING THE INFLOW AND OUTFLOW OF
FUNDS AND THE ASSOCIATION’S CURRENT FINANCIAL STATUS.
10. SERVE IN A STANDING AND AD HOC COMMITTEE AT THE REQUEST OF THE PRESIDENT WHEN
SUCH DOES NOT CONFLICT WITH HER OFFICIAL DUTIES
SECTION 12.3.6. FINANCIAL SECRETARY: THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY SHALL:
1. HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR PREPARING, MAINTAINING, AND KEEPING CUSTODY OF ALL THE ASSOCIATION’S FINANCIAL RECORDS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CHECKBOOK DISBURSEMENTS, DUES, PAYMENTS, PAID AND UNPAID INVOICES, AND ALL FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND TRANSACTIONS.
2. HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR COLLECTING, RECEIVING, AND MAINTAINING RECORDS OF ALL FUNDS DUE TO THE ASSOCIATION, AND SHALL DELIVER SUCH FUNDS TO THE TREASURER FOR DEPOSIT TO THE ASSOCIATION’S BANK ACCOUNT WITHIN SEVEN (7) WORKING DAYS OF RECEIPT.
3. PREPARE AND SEND EACH CHECK LEAF (OR WITHDRAWAL SLIP) FIRST TO THE PRESIDENT, WHO SHALL SIGN, AND AFTER THAT, SEND THE SAME TO THE SECRETARY OR TREASURER FOR HER SIGNATURE.
4. WORKING WITH THE TREASURER AND OTHER OFFICERS, SUBMIT QUARTERLY REPORTS ON THE STATE OF THE ASSOCIATION’S FINANCIAL STATUS TO THE PRESIDENT FOR MEMBERS AND THE
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND REPORT DURING THE ASSOCIATION’S GENERAL ASSEMBLY MEETING
5. PREPARE, IN CONSULTATION WITH THE PRESIDENT, THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, AND CHAIRPERSONS OF STANDING COMMITTEES, AN ANNUAL OPERATING BUDGET FOR THE ASSOCIATION TO BE SUBMITTED FOR CONSIDERATION/APPROVAL OF MEMBERS.
6. BE THE ASSOCIATION’S COLLECTION AGENT FOR DUES, DONATIONS, LEVIES, GIFTS, AND ALL CONTRIBUTIONS AND MUST ISSUE RECEIPTS FOR ALL MONIES PAID TO HER ON BEHALF OF THE ASSOCIATION.
7. KEEP A REGISTRY OF THE MEMBERSHIP OF EACH MEMBER TO DETERMINE THE CORRECT DUES FROM EACH MEMBER AND ISSUE A RECEIPT FOR MONEY COLLECTED.
8. BE ONE OF THE SIGNATORIES TO THE ASSOCIATION’S BANK ACCOUNT(S) OR FINANCIAL ASSET(S).
9. PERFORM OTHER RELATED DUTIES THAT MAY BE ASSIGNED BY THE PRESIDENT.
10. SERVE IN A STANDING AND AD HOC COMMITTEE AT THE REQUEST OF THE PRESIDENT
11. SECTION 12.3. 7. ASSISTANT FINANCIAL SECRETARY SHALL:
1. ASSIST THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO CARRY OUT THE FUNCTIONS OF THE OFFICE.
2. IN THE ABSENCE OF THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, THE ASSISTANT FINANCIAL SECRETARY SHALL STAND IN FOR THE
FINANCIAL SECRETARY AND PERFORM THE DUTIES AND EXERCISE THE POWERS OF THE OFFICE.
SECTION 12.3. 8. SOCIAL SECRETARY/ PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER (PRO)SHALL:
1. OVERSEE THE OVERALL PLANNING, ARRANGEMENT, COORDINATION, AND DIRECTION OF ALL OFFICIAL
SOCIAL EVENTS GIVEN BY THE ASSOCIATION. ALONG WITH THE EXECUTIVE TEAM, CREATE AN INVITATION, COMPILE GUEST LISTS, SETTING OF MENUS AND SEATING, CHOICE OF DECORATIONS, AND SELECT VENUES AND TYPES OF ENTERTAINMENT.
2. DEVELOP AND PROMOTE PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES FOR THE STUDY AND PROPAGATION OF NGWA/IGBO CULTURE AND CUSTOMS, INCLUDING A CONCERTED EFFORT TO POSITIVELY PRESENT NGWA TRADITIONAL RITES, LANGUAGE, AND HERITAGE TO OUR FAMILIES AND FRIENDS.
3. PERFORM OTHER RELATED DUTIES THAT MAY BE ASSIGNED BY THE PRESIDENT AND THE IN LINE WITH THE ASSOCIATION'S GOALS.
4. HAVE THE PRIMARY ROLE OF PUBLICIZING RELEVANT ASSOCIATION INITIATIVES THROUGH MEDIA OUTLETS AND OTHER COMMUNICATION MEDIA. SHE SHALL ALSO ENGAGE IN PUBLIC RELATIONS AS
WELL, SEEK THE PROMOTION AND DEFENSE OF A POSITIVE IMAGE OF THE UMU-OKPU NGWA ASSOCIATION USA AND DIASPORA. THIS PROVISION SHALL REMAIN IN EFFECT UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED BY A RESOLUTION OF THE MEMBERS.
5. PERFORM OTHER RELATED DUTIES THAT MAY BE ASSIGNED BY THE PRESIDENT.
6. SECTION 12.3.9. ASSISTANT SOCIAL SECRETARY/ PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER (PRO)
SHALL:
1. ASSIST THE SOCIAL SECRETARY/ PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER (PRO) IN CARRYING OUT THE FUNCTIONS OF THE OFFICE.
2. IN THE ABSENCE OF THE SOCIAL SECRETARY/ PUBLIC RELATION OFFICER (PRO), THE ASSISTANT SHALL STAND IN FOR THE SOCIAL SECRETARY/ PUBLIC RELATION OFFICER (PRO) AND PERFORM THE DUTIES AND EXERCISE THE POWERS OF THE OFFICE.
SECTION 13.1. OFFICIAL UNIFORM: THE UNIFORM WITH OUR LOGO SHOULD BE WORN ONLY ON SPECIAL OCCASIONS SUCH AS OUR INAUGURATION, GOVERNMENTAL INVITATIONS, AND WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES.
SECTION 13.2 CASUAL UNIFORM: CASUAL UNIFORM SHALL BE WORN FOR ALL OTHER EVENTS UMU-OKPU NGWA ASSOCIATION USA AND DIASPORA MEMBERS SHALL NOT BE MANDATED TO WEAR OTHER UNIFORMS. (WITH EXCEPTION OF CLOSE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF THE CELEBRANT)
SECTION 13.3. ANY NWA OKPU – NGWA THAT VIOLETS THE UNIFORM POLICY WITHOUT
PERMISSION WILL PAY A FINE OF $50 (FIFTY DOLLARS OR ITS EQUIVALENT) PAYABLE AT THE POINT AND WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE.
SECTION 13.4. WHEN CELEBRANTS REQUEST FOR UNIFORMS OTHER THAN # 1 EVENTS, IT WILL BEOUR CASUAL UNIFORM OR OUR HEADTIE ONLY.
SECTION 14. 1: THERE SHALL BE A CONVENTION OF UONAUSAAD TO BE HELD IN MAY (MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND) EVERY THREE YEARS. THE VENUE AND DATE SHALL BE DETERMINED BY THE EXECUTIVE WITH THE MEMBERS ‘ APPROVAL. THE VENUE SHALL BE SELECTED WITH THE GOAL OF ROTATING THE VENUE ACCORDING TO STATE/COUNTRY AND ON THE PRINCIPLE OF FAIRNESS, EQUITY, AND ABILITY.
SECTION 14.2: QUORUM: A QUORUM OF 50 OR MORE MEMBERS IN GOOD FINANCIAL STANDING FOR THE CONVENTION WILL HOLD. RESPONSIBILITY: THE CHAPTER EXECUTIVE SHALL EXERCISE PROGRAMMATIC AND OVERSIGHT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE PLANNING AND EXECUTION OF ALL ITS CONVENTION. THE FOUNDER/ EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT WILL SELECT FIVE MEMBERS OF THE CONVENTION COMMITTEE TO ASSIST THE SOCIAL SECRETARY OF THE CHAPTER TO ORGANIZE THE CONVENTION. EVERY CHAPTER SOCIAL
DEPARTMENT IS REPRESENTED.
SECTION 14.3: IN ANY UONAUSAAD EVENT, ALL THE MONEY COLLECTED SHOULD BE COUNTED O THE FLOOR AND ANNOUNCED TO THE MEMBERS BEFORE THEY LEAVE THE CONVENTION VENUE.
SECTION 15 .1: FINANCIAL AND MATERIAL PLEDGES:
ALL FUNDS AND MATERIALS PLEDGED TO THE UONAUSAAD BY INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS AT ANY THE ASSOCIATION’S CONVENTIONS OR ON ANY OTHER OCCASION MUST BE FULLY HONORED AND SHALL BE CONSIDERED A LEGAL ENTITLEMENT AND AN ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE OR DEBT FOR WHICH UONAUSAAD RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE THE NECESSARY LEGAL MEANS TO COLLECT AS DUE.
SECTION 15.2 THE FOLLOWING SHALL BE THE SIGNATORIES TO ALL UMU—OKPU NGWA
ASSOCIATION USA AND DIASPORA INC., ACCOUNT:
THE PRESIDENT, FINANCIAL SECRETARY, TREASURER, AND BOARD OF ADVISORY/PATRON’S CHAIR AND FOUNDER/BOARD OF DIRECTORS/TRUSTEES CHAIR. TWO SIGNATURES ARE NECESSARY TO WITHDRAW OR TRANSFER APPROVED FUNDS FROM THIS ACCOUNT (THE PRESIDENT MUST BE ONE OF THE TWO SIGNATORIES. THE FOUNDER OR THE PATRONS ‘ CHAIR CAN ONLY SIGN IN EMERGENCY)
SECTION 15.3: CAPITAL ACCOUNT/CHECKING/SAVINGS
THE CAPITAL ACCOUNT SHALL BE THE MAIN ACCOUNT OF THE ASSOCIATION. THE
MEMBERS SHALL RESERVE THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY POLICY DECISIONS RELATING TO THE SECURITY OF THIS ACCOUNT.
SECTION 15.4. THE SAVINGS ACCOUNT SHALL HOLD THE BULK OF THE MONEY.
SECTION: 15.5. BURIAL ACCOUNT: THIS ACCOUNT SHOULD BE ONLY FOR THE PURPOSES OF
DEATH BENEFITS. ALL THE BURIAL FUNDS SHOULD BE DEPOSITED INTO THIS ACCOUNT
SECTION 16.1: THE ELECTION OF THE UONAUSAAD EXECUTIVES SHALL BE HELD AT A DULY SCHEDULED CONVENTION OF THE ASSOCIATION.
SECTION 16.2. THE TRUSTEES BOARD WILL APPOINT THE ELECTORAL COMMITTEES SIX MONTHS
BEFORE THE ELECTION DATE AT THE CONVENTION.
SECTION 16.3. THE ELECTORAL COMMITTEE WILL POST THE ELECTION GUIDELINE FOUR MONTHS
BEFORE THE ELECTION TO GIVE THE INTENDING CANDIDATES TIME TO PREPARE.
A. THE DAY BEFORE THE ELECTION, THE CANDIDATES WILL ADDRESS THE GENERAL MEMBERS
B. THE COMMITTEE WILL CONDUCT A DEBATE WHERE MEMBERS WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO ASK THEMQUESTIONS ON WHAT THEY WILL PROVIDE TO THE ASSOCIATION AND HOW THEY WILL DO IT.
C. EACH CANDIDATE MUST BE AN ACTIVE, BOTH PHYSICAL AND FINANCIAL MEMBER, FOR ATLEAST ONE YEAR TO QUALIFY TO RUN.
D. FOR ANY MEMBER TO VOTE, YOU MUST BE ACTIVE BOTH PHYSICALLY AND FINANCIALLY
MEMBER FOR AT LEAST SIX MONTHS.
E. UONAUSAAD WILL HONOR AN ABSENTEE BALLOT FOR ACTIVE MEMBERS
SECTION 16. 4: ON ELECTION DAY, THE COMMITTEE, CONSISTENT WITH THE UONAUSAAD
CONSTITUTION SHALL CONDUCT THE ELECTIONS.
SECTION 16.5: ALL BALLOTING SHALL BE EITHER IN PERSON OR BY ABSENTEE BALLOT.
SECTION 16. 6: THE CANDIDATE RECEIVING MOST OF THE BALLOT SHALL BE DECLARED THE WINNER OF THE ELECTION FOR THAT OFFICE.
SECTION. 17. 1 AN ELECTED OFFICER OR A MEMBER OF THE ASSOCIATION MAY BE REMOVED FROM OFFICE AND THE ASSOCIATION FOR THE FOLLOWING REASONS:
(A) MISAPPROPRIATION OF THE ASSOCIATION'S FUNDS.
(B) A CONVICTION FOR FELONIOUS OFFENSE OR ENGAGING IN CONDUCT LIKELY TO
CAUSE HARM AND EMBARRASSMENT TO THE ASSOCIATION , ITS MISSION, REPUTATION, AND THE NGWA COMMUNITY.
(C) CRIMINALITY INCLUDES BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO THEFT, SALE, AND USE OF DRUGS,
FRAUD, CHRONIC ALCOHOL ABUSE, CRIMINAL CONVICTION, JAIL TERM, AND OTHER
HIGH CRIMES AS MAY BE DETERMINED BY A COURT OF LAW OR CONSTITUTIONAL
AUTHORITY OF THE STATE AND COUNTRY OF JURISDICTION.
(d) ADDITIONALLY, A MEMBER OR AN OFFICER CAN BE REMOVED FOR PURPOSEFUL AND
MALICIOUS INTENT TO HARM A MEMBER'S REPUTATION, BUSINESS, PERSONAL, OR
FAMILY INTEREST, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO UNFOUNDED CHARACTER ASSASSINATION, INNUENDOES, AND RUMOR-MONGERING. IF AN OFFICER, SHE SHALL BOTH STEP DOWN AND PAY A FINE. IF NOT AN OFFICER, THE MEMBER SHALL PAY A FINE. THE FINE WILL BE AS DETERMINED BY THE DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE FOR THE APPROVAL OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
THE ASSOCIATION SHALL HAVE BOTH ADHOC/STANDING COMMITTEES
ANY AMENDMENT TO THIS CONSTITUTION SHALL FOLLOW THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURES:
(A): PROPOSAL: A PROPOSAL FOR A CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT SHALL BE MADE BY 25 OR MORE VOTES OF REGISTERED MEMBERS OF THE UONAUSAAD.
1(B) RATIFICATIONS: RATIFICATION OF THE CONSTITUTION SHALL REQUIRE 25 OR MORE VOTES OF REGISTERED MEMBERS PRESENT AT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY.
C) VOTING SHALL BE DURING A GENERAL ASSEMBLY MEETING OR DURING A TELECONFERENCE MEETING OF REGISTERED MEMBERS.
D) AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE UPON RATIFICATION.
DATED AND SIGNED ON BEHALF OF THE UONAUSAAD, THIS DAY, 5/17, 2020, AT 10:00 PM USA EST,
THE UNDERSIGN HEREBY CERTIFY
1. DR. ETHEL NWANDU
2. MRS. CHITURU NWOKE
3. MRS. GIFT N. ONWUNALI
4. MRS. LOVE NWAOHUOCHA
5. MRS. COMFORT NWAZUE
6. MRS. CHINWE IHEMADU
7. MRS. FELICIA O. UKOMADU
8. MRS ULOAKU AZUBUIKE
9. MRS. GOLDEN UBANI – UKOMA
10. MRS. OTUODICHINMA NWANKPA CHAIR
11. MRS. AUGUSTINA CHINYERE NWAKANMA (SEC)
12. M.R.S. BLESSING NGOZI OCHULOR
13. M.R.S. LINDA CHIAMAKA NWAKANMA
