CONSTITUTION OF THE EGBA PROGRESSIVE ASSOCIATION, INC.
HOUSTON, CHAPTER

ARTICLES:

• ARTICLE 1: ARTICLE OF INCORPORATION
• ARTICLE 2: NAME, NATURE AND ADDRESS
• ARTICLE 3: MOTTO, ANTHEM AND LOGO
• ARTICLE 4: AIMS AND OBJECTIVE
• ARTICLE 5: MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATION
• ARTICLE 6: WITHDRAWAL OF MEMBERSHIP
• ARTICLE 7: GROUNDS FOR DISMISSAL OF MEMBERS
• ARTICLE 8: MEMBERSHIP STATUS
• ARTICLE 9: MEMBERS DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
• ARTICLE 10: MEETING
• ARTICLE 11: RIGHT OF MEMBERS
• ARTICLE 12: ASSOCIATION FINANCES
• ARTICLE 13: ASSOCIATION EXPENDITURE
• ARTICLE 14: FINANCIAL AIDS TO MEMBERS
• ARTICLE 15: ASSOCIATION OFFICERS
• ARTICLE 16: DUTIES OF OFFICERS
• ARTICLE 17: ELECTION OF OFFICERS
• ARTICLE 18: GROUNDS FOR REMOVAL OF OFFICER(S)
• ARTICLE 19: CONTIGENCY PLAN FOR OFFICER'S REMOVAL
• ARTICLE 20: QUALIFICATIONS FOR ELECTION.
• ARTICLE 21: ELECTORAL PROCEDURE
• ARTICLE 22: COMMITTEES
• ARTICLE 23: DISSOLUTION OF COMMITTEES
• ARTICLE 24: BENEFITS
• ARTICLE 25: AMENDMENTS
• BY LAWS

ARTICLE 1: ARTICLE OF INCORPORATION

We, the undersigned and natural persons, at least 2 of whom are citizens of the STATE OF TEXAS, and who are of the age of 18 years or more, acting as incorporators of a corporation under the TEXAS NONPROFIT CORPORATION ACT, do hereby adopt the following ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION for such corporation

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 2: NAME, NATURE AND ADDRESS

SECTION 1:
The name of the organization shall be Egba Progressive Association, Incorporation.

SECTION 2:
The Egba Progressive Association, Inc. shall be duly registered as a non-profit membership corporation in accordance with the appropriate laws of Texas.

SECTION 3:
The Permanent and mailing address of ''The EGBA PROGRESSIVE ASSOCIATION" shall be

P.O BOX 1110,
ALIEF TEXAS 77411-1110

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 3 : MOTTO, ANTHEM AND LOGO

SECTION 1:
The motto of the Egba Progressive Association, Inc. shall be "TRUST, DEDICATION & INTEGRITY".

SECTION 2:
The Anthem of the Egba progressive Association, Inc. shall be The Egba Anthem:

"LORI OKE ATI PETELE" by late Rev. I.O. Ransome-Kuti.

SECTION 3:
The LOGO/EMBLEM OF EGBA PROGRESSIVE ASSOCIATION, INC. shall be: "OLUMO ROCK".

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 4: AIMS AND OBJECTIVE

A. To promote family atmosphere and unity among members of the Egba Progressive Association, inc.

B. To promote cultural and social values of Egba tradition.

C. To improve and uphold the image of the Egba people and to protect our reputation in the Houston Community.

D. To promote economic well being of members as well as their families.

E. To love each other regardless of economic or financial status.

F. To organize from time to time social and cultural events in line with the rules and regulations of the state of Texas as well as the United States of America.

G. To help in the development and growth of the Egba Homeland.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 5: MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATION

A. Members shall not be below twenty one years (21YEARS) of age and must be a descendant of Egbaland.

B. Any prospective members shall demonstrate commitment and dedication to the advancement of the Egba people.

C. Any prospective member shall have no criminal records and background that may tarnish the image or reputation of the Egba Progressive Association, Inc.

D. All new members of Egba Progressive Association, Inc. are required by this constitution to pay a non refundable fee of Three Hundred Dollars($300.00) that will include the followings:

1. Monthly fee
2. Monthly dues for the month the member joins.
3. Quarterly dues for the quarter.
4. Supplies that includes the following:

• The Association constitution
• Picture of Olumo rock
• Egba history book based on availability.
• Association traditional hats.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 6: WITHDRAWAL OF MEMBERSHIP

A. A member who wishes to withdraw his membership shall send a written notice thirty days (30) in advance to the Secretary who will informed/read it at the meeting.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 7: GROUNDS FOR DISMISSAL OF MEMBERS

A. A member who misses more than three consecutive meetings and does not show any interest to continue as a member of the Association

B. A member/members who engages in activities or conduct that will tarnish the image or reputation of the Association. Activities that violate Federal and State laws. These activities may include but not limited to the following:

1. Insurance Fraud
2. Credit Card Fraud
3. Telephone Fraud
4. Forgery
5. Buying, Selling, using and possession of controlled substances
6. Stealing, Robbery and armed robbery
7. Misrepresentation/impersonation of another individual
8. Rape

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 8: MEMBERSHIP STATUS

a. Active member: A member, who attends regular monthly meetings, pays dues and fines regularly and participates in the activities of the Association whether voluntary or assigned.

b. In-Active member: A member who is not able to attend regular monthly meetings, and with proper notification and approval by the house but pays his dues regularly and keeps up with the affairs of the Association.

c. A new member shall remain active for a period of at least 6 months before becoming eligible for inactive status.

d. In the events of unforeseen circumstances, a maximum of three (3) absences shall be allowed. This means members shall attend AT LEAST Nine (9) regular monthly meetings.

e. If members exceed three (3) consecutives absences, such members shall pay a fine of Fifty dollars ($50).

f. If a member exceed three (3) absences, within a twelve months (12) period, a fine of twenty dollars ($20) is assessed on each additional absences thereafter.

g. A member who is late for monthly meetings shall pay a Fine of five dollars ($5).

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 9: MEMBERS DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

a. Members who are granted a deferred probation or probation shall be on suspension for a period to be determined by a special council not to exceed six months (6), depending on the gravity of the offense committed.

b. Member who discusses other members business, rumors or indulges in character assassination with negatives intentions that results in pain, anguish and stress. Such member shall be liable (upon conviction by a special council) for a fine up to $100.00

c. Constant refusal by a member to abide by the constitution and by-laws of the Association.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 10: MEETING

There shall be two main types of meeting of the general membership of the Association

a. Monthly General Meeting

b. Emergency General Meeting

a. Monthly General meeting shall be held on the third Sunday of every month, meeting starts at exactly 4.00 P.M. and ends at 6.00 P.M. Motion to extend the meeting beyond 6.00 P.M. may be passed and approved by the house.

b. Emergency General Meeting: The General Secretary in consultation with the President, shall summon emergency general meeting for any of the following:

1. Urgent matter(s) affecting the affairs of the Association and/or its members that required the attention of the general membership arise, such that has to be resolved before the next general meeting
2. If for any reason no general meeting was held as scheduled, an emergency meeting should be summoned:
   
   • a. The President shall call the meeting to order.
   • b. The Secretary shall read the minutes of the last meeting.
   • c. The President shall preside over the meeting.
   • d. There shall be no form of interruption or disturbance whatsoever during the meeting (e.g) cellular phones, pagers, children, etc.
   • e. A member shall raise his hand to be recognized to speak or address the house.
   • f. A member who is unable to stay for the duration of the meeting shall notify the President before the start of the meeting.
   • g. No member shall partake in the consumption of the alcoholic beverages before and during the meeting.
   • h. All dues shall be collected at the beginning of the meeting and all fines and levies shall be collected at the end of the meeting.
   • i. All fines will be levied by the President. In the absence of the President, the Vice President or a designated member will have the authority to do so.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 11: RIGHT OF MEMBERS

A. Every member shall have the right to partake in any discussion of the Association.

B. All members shall enjoy equal and responsibilities subject to this Association. Every member shall have the right to due process.

C. Every member shall have the right to be recognized and properly address the meeting in accordance with the by-laws of the Association.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 12: ASSOCIATION FINANCES

A. Revenue for the Association shall be raised from, but not limited to the following sources:

1. Membership registration fee.
2. Membership monthly and quarterly dues.
3. Special assessments, levies and fines.
4. Donations.
5. Interest from the bank accounts, and dividends from investments.
6. Other sources that may be approved by a majority of the Association.
7. The following shall be the signatories to the Association's Bank Accounts:
   
   • THE PRESIDENT
   • THE GENERAL SECRETARY
   • THE TREASURER

Any check, regardless of amount must be signed by two officials listed above.

Under no circumstances shall a check be issued without adequate number of signatories and supporting documentation.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 13: ASSOCIATION EXPENDITURE

A. Expenditures shall be authorized by the President with the approval of the house majority

B. Such majority approval for all expenditure shall be documented and audible on demands by members of the Association or an independent auditor.

C. The Treasurer shall report the status of the Association's financial statements to the members quarterly and as requested.

D. Financial year shall be October 31 to September 30 of each Fiscal year.

E. An account shall be opened for the Association with a reputable bank in Houston.

F. Registration fees, monthly and quarterly dues, donations and contributions shall be deposited into the account.

G. Expenses incurred on behalf of the Association shall be supported with an official receipt to ensure full reimbursement by the Treasurer.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 14: FINANCIAL AIDS TO MEMBERS

Financial aids shall be extended to members as needed. Financial aids shall be subject to but not limited to the following guidelines:

• a. Financial aid to members shall be no more than one thousand ($1000.00) at a time.
• b. Financial aid shall be paid back within or no more than six months.
• c. A grace period of 45 days shall be granted from the date of the loan before the six months period comes into effect
• d. Financial aid shall be no more than once per member within a calendar year
• e. A committee shall be formed to handle financial aids to members.
• f. Any member requesting a financial aid shall sign an agreement with the Association.
• g. Any member requesting a financial aid shall be in good financial standing. Such member shall owe no more than two months dues.
• h. A full one year of membership is required before any member is qualified for financial aid.
• i. Non-payment of financials aids shall be dealt with on an individual basis.
• j. The Association shall deal with default and attempt to collect by any means necessary.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 15: ASSOCIATION OFFICERS

a. President.

b. Vice President.

c. Secretary.

d. Assistant Secretary.

e. Treasurer.

f. Assistant Treasurer.

g. Social Secretary.

h. Assistant Social Secretary.

i. Publicity Secretary.

j. Assistant publicity Secretary.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 16: DUTIES OF OFFICERS

• PRESIDENT: The President shall preside over all meetings of the Association and shall be responsible for the proper conduct of business at such meetings. He will ensure that members behave in a constitutional manner and do everything that will tend to the welfare and progress of the Association. He shall assign officers and or members to undertake special or regular tasks on behalf of the Association. He shall perform other special duties and / or tasks which he may be assigned. He shall coordinate all activities concerning the Association and be able to forge unity among all members of the Association.
• VICE PRESIDENT: He shall assist the President generally and deputize for him during his absence and in all ramifications.
• SECRETARY: He shall summon all meetings of Association. He shall keep record of minutes of the meetings; keep all records and documents of the Association. He shall assist the President at all times. He shall give proper and timely notices of all Executive and general meeting to all members. He shall consult the President on any new matter that may be included in the next meeting agenda before sending notice to all members.
• ASSISTANT SECRETARY: He shall assume the duties and responsibilities of the Secretary during his absence. He shall assist the Secretary at all times.
• TREASURER: He is the Accountant of the Association. He shall record and deposit funds into the bank account on behalf of the Association. He shall maintain all financial records of the Association and render quarterly Association financial statement. He shall be responsible for the collection of all moneys, dues and fines due to the Association. He shall issue check(s) for expenses subject to approval.
• ASSISTANT TREASURER: He shall assist the Treasurer and assume the duties and responsibilities of the Treasurer at all times.
• SOCIAL SECRETARY: He shall be in charge and be responsible for all social activities. He shall coordinate Association activities, organize events and keep accounts of spending pertinent to these events. He shall arrange for pictures, videos and music as necessary for these events. He shall arrange for present as needed. He shall arrange for help if needed.
• ASSISTANT SOCIAL SECRETARY: He shall assist the Social Secretary and assume his duties and responsibilities at all times.
• PUBLICITY SECRETARY: He is the Press/Media Officer of the Association. He shall handle all printing, advertising, launching annual anniversary publication, invitation/greeting cards and etc. Adequate arrangements shall be made to furnish funds as approved by the house to meet such expenses. He shall also serve as the Public Relations Officer and in events of a TV/Press interview; he shall seek the approval from the Association to attend such interview.
• ASSISTANT PUBLICITY SECRETARY: He shall assist the Publicity Secretary and assume his duties at all times.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 17: ELECTION OF OFFICERS

a. All officers shall be elected for a term of two years

b. Election shall be open to all eligible members.

c. Every officer of the Association shall be elected by a majority of the members present at a general meeting.

d. Absentee vote is also acceptable in a sealed envelope to the electoral committee and will be opened at the meeting on election day.

e. The 3rd Sunday of the month of August shall be set aside for a general election of new officers. The election shall take place at a general meeting. The newly elected officers shall be sworn into office(s) on the third Sunday of the month of October. The transitional period shall be the month of September during which the outgoing officers shall hand over power.

f. The outgoing Treasurer shall render financial statement of the Association to the house after the independent auditors have examined and certified the books.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 18: GROUNDS FOR REMOVAL OF OFFICER(S)

a. Embezzlement and misappropriation of funds.

b. Gross, reckless, negligence use and abuse of power.

c. Non-performance or neglect of official duties.

d. The use of position or officer for personal gain or in an unauthorized manner

e. Any other acts, actions and activities considered to be prejudicial or detrimental to the best interest and reputation of the Association.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 19: CONTIGENCY PLAN FOR OFFICER'S REMOVAL

a. If for any reason an officer is relieved of his position, the person serving as Vice, Assistant or Deputy shall take over that office until election is held. In the absence of Vice, Assistant, or Deputy, the President shall have the power in conjunction with the advisory board to appoint an interim replacement.

b. If for any reason the whole Executive shall resign or be relieved of their post and responsibilities, a committee shall be formed by the general House to run the affairs of the Association and such committee shall arrange for an early election(s). The elected officers shall complete the remaining term of the relieved Executives. The committee shall comprise of seven (7) members.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 20: QUALIFICATIONS FOR ELECTION

a. All members are qualified to run for an election office as long as such member had registered with the Association at least one year (1Yr).

c. Candidates running for office shall be in good financial standing. He must have paid fees and dues to date prior to the election date and must not be in arrears.

d. Must not have undergone any discipline action or procedure within one year (1Yr).

e. Any member removed from office for any reason whatsoever shall not be eligible to run for any office for a period of four years (4Yrs)

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 21: ELECTORAL PROCEDURE

a. The members of the Association's Electoral Committee shall be elected at the General Meeting of the Association.

b. The Electoral committee shall be appointed at the May monthly meeting to coordinate the electoral process.

c. The President shall nominate electoral committee with approval of general member's vote.

d. Electoral committee shall comprise of three (3) members.

e. They shall verify candidates' qualification, organize and conduct election according to electoral process.

f. After the votes have been casts and votes counted, the Chairman of the Electoral committee shall announce the results.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 22: COMMITTEES

1. FINANCIAL COMMITTEE: Shall advise the General Assembly on Financial matters.
2. AUDIT COMMITTEE: Shall be responsible for performing the financial audit of the Association not less than twice a year.
3. SOCIAL COMMITTEE: Shall advise the Association on matters related to social event and carry out the Association's resolutions on all social matters.
4. NEW MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE: Shall be responsible for the Association's screening of all new applicants who apply for new membership, and present such member at the General Meeting, provided such member meets all the Association's criteria as stipulated in Article 5 of the constitution.

AD-HOC:

a. Shall include the electoral committee, annual award committee any other committee not listed in Article

May be set up by their General Assembly and any organ of the Association for a specific time and purpose.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 23: DISSOLUTION OF COMMITTEES

a. The tenure of Office of an Ad-Hoc committee shall lapse on completion of its terms of reference.

b. Any committee may be recommended for dissolution by any member for non-performance, subject to an extra ordinary resolution.

c. A Committee member shall be recommended for replacement by the Chairman and wills power of the entire house if its conduct in the opinion of the members is detrimental to the progress of the committee.

[Back to Top]

ARTICLE 24: BENEFITS

a. New members shall have six (6) months of waiting period before qualifying for any benefits.

b. In the events of a member's immediate family's death, a sum of five hundred dollars ($500.00) shall be given to the member as financial assistance by the Association. Immediate family includes member's wife and both sides of the parents.

c. A member blessed with a new born baby shall receive a cash of two hundred and fifty dollars (250.00) per child from the Association.

d. In the events of a natural disaster or catastrophe, the member affected shall receive a financial assistance of two hundred and fifty dollars ($250.00) from the Association. This will be handled on an individual basis and approved by the house.

e. The Association shall grant a scholarship of Five Hundred dollars ($500.00) to any child of a member who have graduated from high school and have obtained an admission to a 2-yr or 4-yr college. The criteria for the scholarship are as follows:

1. Any child by birth or marriage of a member.
2. A child that graduates from High school.
3. A child who had been admitted to college and college-bound.

ARTICLE 25: AMENDMENTS

The Executive committee shall not alter or repeal any part of this constitution adopted by the general house. Addition/Subtraction of Article, Heading and Subtraction shall be amended in harmony by a majority of the house present at a monthly meeting which the Amendment is presented.

[Back to Top]