Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (also known as Performing Musicians Employers' Association Of Nigeria and abbreviated as PMAN) is an organisation founded by Christy Essien-Igbokwe and Sunny Okosun in 1984 to guide, protect and promote the interests of musicians in the west African nation of Nigeria. Authorized by the government of Nigeria under the Trade Unions Act, the organisation also has the responsibility to regulate the practice of music profession in the country.
As of August 2018, the president of PMAN is Pretty Okafor, while the 1st Vice President is Suny Neji, and 2nd Vice Zaaky Azay.
Pretty Okafor was suspended indefinitely by the PMAN National Working Committee for violations of PMAN constitution and financial discrepancies on the 23rd of August 2024, the First vice President, SUNNY NEJI was appointed as Acting President pending ratification of Okafor's suspension at the National executive Council (NEC) meeting.
Following the internal dispute within PMAN, several actions have been taken by the National Executive Council (NEC) after deliberations on the constitutionality of the suspension of Mr. Pretty Okafor, the President of PMAN, by the National Working Committee (NWC).
The National Executive Council (NEC) reviewed the appeal made by Mr. Pretty Okafor and found that his suspension by the NWC was unconstitutional, violating established procedures in the PMAN Constitution. The suspension was lifted, allowing Mr. Pretty Okafor to continue his duties as President of PMAN.
Formation of a National Disciplinary Committee by the National Executive Council. The NEC then appointed a National Disciplinary Committee to investigate the allegations against Mr. Pretty Okafor and assess the conduct of the members of the National Working Committee (NWC). This decision aimed to ensure due process and transparency in handling the allegations.[1]
On August 27, 2024, the NEC, after reviewing the report submitted by the Disciplinary Committee, passed a resolution suspending key members of the NWC—namely Sunny Neji, Zakky Azzay, and Stephen Michael (Ruggedman). In addition, Boniface Itodo, the General Secretary, and his assistant were dismissed from their roles for their involvement in unconstitutional actions.[2]
On September 16, 2024, the NEC resolved to appoint new officers to fill the vacant positions. Elizabeth Khara Gabriel, Esq., was appointed as the Acting General Secretary, while Lady Golda C. Alexander was appointed as the Assistant General Secretary.
The suspension of Baba Ojonugwa J.F.O was lifted after it was discovered that his signature had been forged and used without his consent by the dismissed and suspended NWC members. This exoneration restored his status within the association.
With the lifting of his suspension and the subsequent actions taken by the NEC, Pretty Okafor continues to serve as the President of PMAN, fully backed by the NEC.
The NEC’s actions are in line with the provisions of the PMAN Constitution, which governs the procedures for disciplinary actions, suspensions, and appointments of officers. This resolution also aims to restore stability within PMAN after the period of internal conflict.