In a bold step towards restoring democratic integrity and accountability within the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization Europe (NIDOE), the Austrian chapter has joined a coalition of 16 other NIDOE chapters dumping the sacked Electoral Committee Mr Ayo Adesina who is from the Austria Chapter. This move comes in response to ongoing dissatisfaction with the current Central Executive Council (CEC) leadership and its perceived disregard for constitutional processes.
During an extraordinary general meeting held on November 2nd, the Austrian chapter unanimously voted to align itself with a caretaker committee formed by these 16 chapters. This committee aims to oversee NIDO Europe’s leadership functions temporarily, with a commitment to organizing transparent and constitutionally guided elections within the next year. The decision reflects an increasing demand among chapters across Europe for change and reform within the organization.
The Austrian chapter’s concerns are rooted in what it describes as consistent failures by NIDO Europe’s current leadership and the electoral committee to uphold constitutional standards. Despite numerous requests for corrective actions and improvements, these appeals have reportedly been ignored. Many members feel that these issues not only threaten the organization’s credibility but also undermine the core values that NIDOE is meant to embody.
As a result, the Austrian chapter has decided to abstain from participating in the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled to take place in Greece from November 7th to 10th, 2024. Dr. S. Okoli, the General Secretary of the NIDOE Austria chapter, stated that this decision reflects a commitment to restoring transparency and ethical governance within the organization.
“We believe that joining this coalition is essential to safeguarding the democratic processes and values of NIDOE,” Dr. Okoli explained. “The caretaker committee’s formation represents a chance for NIDOE to rebuild from within and establish a more accountable leadership.”
The Austrian chapter has assured its members that it will provide regular updates on the coalition’s progress and encourages all members to stay engaged as they work through this transitional period.
Photo credit: NIDOE Member @ AGM Austria 2018
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