- In attendees were 246 members with only 171 validated members that formed part of the quorum. The core issue that prompted the EGM was the Obasekola-led CEC’s refusal to call an emergency general meeting to address mounting grievances regarding the handling of NIDOE’s electoral process before the organization‘s annual general meeting.
In a significant shake-up within the Nigerian diaspora community, over 200 members of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization Europe (NIDOE) have ousted the leadership of the Central Executive Committee (CEC) led by Dr. Bashiru Obasekola.
This decision was reached during an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM), requisitioned under Article 56.2 of the NIDOE Constitution and Articles 303 & 305 of the UK Companies Act 2006, where NIDO Europe is headquartered. With notice given in accordance with Article 57.1 of NIDO Europe Constitution and Article 305 of the UK Companies Act 2006.
In attendees were 246 members with only 171 validated members that formed part of the quorum.
The core issue that prompted the EGM was the Obasekola-led CEC’s refusal to call an emergency general meeting to address mounting grievances regarding the handling of NIDOE’s electoral process before the organization‘s annual general meeting. A circular issued ahead of the EGM outlined the reasons for the leadership’s dismissal, with several key points highlighting the perceived mismanagement of the organization’s election and governance processes.
Grounds for Leadership Sack
- Violations of NIDOE Election Protocols:
NIDOE’s UK South Chapter held its own EGM where 95% of members endorsed two candidates for the positions of Chairman and Vice Chairman, in line with Section 69.6 of the organization’s constitution. However, the Electoral Committee (EC), under pressure from the CEC, included three additional candidates from the same chapter, violating the NIDOE constitution. The interference was seen as an overreach of authority, undermining the chapter’s democratic process. - Mockery of Democratic Process:
When challenged by past chairpersons and key stakeholders, the CEC responded by subjecting both the two legitimate candidates and the three unendorsed ones to a pre-election voting process. This action was widely condemned as unconstitutional and a blatant disregard for the will of the chapter’s membership. - Inclusion of Ghost Candidates:
In another controversial move, the CEC included a disqualified candidate from NIDOE Italy who had not met the organization’s membership criteria. This decision, made in opposition to the protests of the Italian chapter, further undermined the electoral credibility and raised concerns about leadership manipulation. - Disqualification of Competent Candidates:
The EC disqualified a competent candidate endorsed by the Swiss chapter, despite repeated calls from stakeholders to uphold constitutional integrity. This, coupled with inconsistent electoral guidelines, cast doubt on the EC’s ability to conduct a free and fair election, leading to widespread disillusionment within the organization. - Unconstitutional Involvement of Non-EC Members for candidates screening process:
The EC engaged eight non-members in the screening process for NIDOE candidates, a decision seen as both constitutionally baseless and suspicious. Speculation arose that these actions were part of a broader political agenda, aimed at installing certain candidates affiliated with Nigerian political parties. - Financial Mismanagement Allegations:
Members demanded a forensic audit of the NIDO Europe Foundation’s accounts amid allegations of unauthorized disbursement of donated funds for personal expenses and selected projects without proper approval from the Board of Trustees. The allegations of financial impropriety have fueled concerns about the integrity of the leadership. - Undue Interference in Chapter Elections:
There were reports that Dr. Obasekola had instructed the NIDOE UK South Chapter leadership not to nominate a specific candidate, raising further questions about electoral interference and manipulation. If proven, these actions would confirm allegations of favoritism and undue influence in the organization’s election process. Moreover it’s becoming a pattern that all the chapters in crisis, considered the leading chapters in Europe decedent in complete anarchy after visiting their AGM and meetings, including Germany, Ireland, UK south and now Swiss.
Outcome of the EGM
The EGM, held on Saturday, 26th October 2024, after exhaustive deliberation, passed a vote of no confidence in Dr. Obasekola and the EC leadership. Members unanimously agreed that the leadership had failed to uphold the constitution and protect the democratic rights of the chapters.
A seven-member Caretaker Committee was appointed to investigate the numerous constitutional violations and infractions, with a mandate to recommend corrective measures and conduct a new election within 12 months. This decisive move reflects the membership’s resolve to restore credibility to the organization and ensure that its future leadership operates with transparency and adherence to its founding principles.
Looking Ahead
As NIDO Europe enters a period of transition, the sacking of the Obasekola-led CEC signals a broader call for accountability and reform. The outcome of the EGM underscores the organization’s commitment to upholding democratic values and ensuring that the leadership truly reflects the will of its members.
The following members nominated and voted into the Caretaker Committee: Alhaji Issa Abdullah; Hon Madam Vire Komolafe; Dr Onyebuchi Egbuchunam; Chief Kalu Okorafor; Madam Afolasade Ope; Hon Busola Agboola and Valentine Owodu.
With the upcoming elections under the oversight of the newly appointed Caretaker Committee, members hope to rebuild trust and move NIDOE toward a future of integrity, unity, and effective representation for Nigerians in Europe.
