PMAN President Reaffirms Commitment to Union’s Growth Amid Internal
Dispute Resolution
On October 22, 2024, a pivotal meeting was held between the Performing
Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN) and the Registrar of Trade
Unions, Mr. Folonipe Amos, at the Registrar’s office in Abuja. The meeting,
which commenced at 11:46 am, was convened to address ongoing internal
conflicts within PMAN’s leadership and chart a path toward resolution and
sustainable growth for the union.
The Registrar of Trade Unions opened the meeting by welcoming all attendees
and stressing the importance of resolving the issues amicably. He noted his
long-standing engagement with PMAN and expressed disappointment that
not all parties honored the invitation to the meeting, notably citing the absence
of the suspended NWC members, Sunny Neji, Zaaki Azzey, Steven Michael
Ugochukwu (Ruggedman), the former PMAN General Secretary, Mr. Boniface
Itodo and other aggrieved parties. The Registrar emphasized that the goal of
the meeting was to interpret the union’s constitution and ensure that all actions
taken by the leadership are in line with the rules governing the association.
PMAN President, Mr. Pretty Okafor, provided a comprehensive account of
events leading to the current dispute, highlighting his efforts to maintain peace
within the union despite internal challenges. He noted that despite their
disagreements, he has remained committed to ensuring that PMAN’s core
projects, including the PMAN House, PMAN Radio Station, and development
of PMAN’s land in Abuja, continue without interruption.
Mr. Okafor further revealed that he had personally facilitated the acquisition of
radio station equipment and secured international deals to advance PMAN’s
interests. However, these efforts were met with opposition from some members of the NWC, leading to tensions that escalated into attempts to
unseat him while he was abroad on official duties.
The Registrar reiterated that the NWC is accountable to the National Executive
Council (NEC) and that the NEC, as the union’s second-highest decision-
making body, has the power to override the NWC’s decisions. He encouraged
all parties to work within the framework of the PMAN constitution and assured
them that disputes of this nature are to be handled by the Trade Union Dispute
Act.
Contributions from members present at the meeting further underscored the
concerns about NWC members’ allocations, with calls for more inclusive
decision-making that benefits the state chapters of PMAN. Mr. Okafor received
a vote of confidence from the NEC, with the body praising his leadership and
commitment to the union’s growth despite ongoing challenges. The NEC
formally presented a letter of confidence to Mr. Okafor, commending his
efforts to lead the union through turbulent times.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Okafor thanked the members, the Registrar, and
stakeholders for their continued support. He also reaffirmed his commitment
to ensuring that PMAN remains on course to achieve its long-term objectives.
He announced that plans are underway to enable state chapters establish their
local secretariats, underscoring his vision for a more unified and resourceful
PMAN.
The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to
resolve all internal disputes peacefully, as the Registrar urged all parties to
adhere to the union’s constitution and work collectively for the union’s future.
This press release is intended for immediate publication. PMAN remains
committed to promoting the interests of Nigerian musicians and ensuring the
prosperity of the entertainment industry across the country and internationally.
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