1. Membership:
Membership in Edo Union Leeds is inclusive and open to all citizens of Edo State, Nigeria, as well as individuals married to Edo persons. To maintain active membership, individuals are required to:
– Pay annual dues as determined by the organization.
– Engage actively in union activities and uphold a minimum attendance of 40% at meetings.
Failure to adhere to these criteria may result in the forfeiture of membership benefits and voting rights. However, members can regain their rights upon clearing any outstanding dues. Additionally, family membership provisions include an increase in fees for children aged 21 and above, with those aged 25 and older required to transition to single membership unless married.
2. Officers of the Association:
The governance of Edo Union Leeds is managed by an elected Executive Committee, which comprises key positions such as the President, Vice President, General Secretary, and other essential officers. The election process is conducted during the Annual General Meeting (AGM), ensuring transparency and member participation.
– Officers serve a term of two years, with the possibility of re-election for a maximum of four years (two consecutive terms).
– In the event of a vacancy, the Vice President or Assistant will temporarily step in until a replacement is elected within 90 days.
3. Finance:
Financial integrity is paramount within Edo Union Leeds. Members are required to remit dues, levies, and contributions as established during general meetings.
– The organization maintains a current/savings account with reputable banking institutions, managed by the Financial Secretary and two other designated executive members who serve as signatories.
– For financial projects exceeding £300, approval from the general house is necessary.
– An Audit Committee is appointed to review the financial accounts annually, ensuring accountability and transparency.
4. Committees:
Edo Union Leeds empowers its members to address specific issues through the formation of committees.
– Committees may be appointed by the general house or the President as needed, with the understanding that they will be dissolved once their tasks are completed or if their performance is deemed unsatisfactory by a simple majority vote.
– The Executive Committee reserves the right to remove members from committees if they are not fulfilling their responsibilities.
5. Property:
The organization is authorized to acquire, lease, or develop property solely for non-profit activities.
– Members will discuss property acquisitions at general meetings to ensure collective agreement and financial viability.
– A fund will be established specifically for the purpose of property acquisition, reflecting the union’s commitment to creating a permanent space for its activities.
6. Meetings:
Regular meetings are vital for maintaining communication and engagement among members.
– The Executive Committee will convene as necessary, while general meetings are mandated to occur at least once every six weeks.
– An emergency meeting can be called by the President or two-thirds of the Executive Committee members.
– A quorum for decision-making requires the presence of two-thirds of the Executive Council members. Members who are absent from meetings for which notifications have been given are bound by the decisions made.
7. Benefits of Membership:
Edo Union Leeds places significant emphasis on the welfare of its members, providing a range of support services.
– In the event of a member’s death, the organization will actively assist the family and contribute a minimum of £50 from each member.
– Other benefits include financial support for members experiencing loss (of a partner or parent), weddings, births, and hospitalizations. For instance, members receiving financial assistance for childbirth will be offered a £50 gift, while newlyweds can receive £100, or £200 if both partners are members.
– The organization encourages attendance and support for members’ significant life events, such as graduations and milestone birthdays.
8. Complaints Procedure:
Edo Union Leeds is committed to resolving member grievances effectively and confidentially.
– Any complaints should be directed to the Executive Committee, which will attempt to address the issues raised.
– If unresolved, the matter will be escalated to a Complaint and Disciplinary Committee for further investigation.
– All members are expected to maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive issues and disputes.
9. Discipline:
To uphold the integrity of the organization, a Disciplinary Committee will be established to address any instances of misconduct.
– This committee, consisting of three appointed members, will handle cases involving behavior that could damage the reputation of Edo Union Leeds or the wider Nigerian community.
– Recommendations for disciplinary actions will be made based on the findings of the committee.
10. General Provisions:
Edo Union Leeds recognizes the contributions of its members through various initiatives.
– An advisory council will be formed, selected by members at the AGM, to provide guidance and support.
– Outstanding members will be acknowledged for their dedication and service at the end of each year, with selections made by a dedicated committee.
– The organization will host end-of-year celebrations and educational events at least once a year, focusing on contemporary issues impacting Edo State and the Nigerian community.