AGBONLAHORBOOKS.COM

what is happening here? ....

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It Is a Pity.........

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WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM MOSES

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1. He chose not to be called son of Pharaohs daughter! Why? Heb. 11:24

2. Moses did not turn back from his decision. He was focused & determined

3. Why did Moses look intently toward what he’s going to benefit for being loyal to Jehovah?

4. Why did Moses not reject his God and people and choose Pharaoh’s God because of the enjoyment there? – “he still had faith in God”

5. How long do you want to remain in this suffering?

6. Enjoyment from wickedness last only a short while! Why do you still choose to do wickedness?

7. Do you see things differently from the way Moses sees them?

8. To know whether you can succeed in this task you have embarked in, ask your self: has anyone ever succeeded through such means before?

9. Should you stop halfway to be able to succeed in business

10. Is there reality and sincerity in you when you want to benefit without laboring for it

11. Should your sacrifice your effort in what you do not be a key to your faith that you will succeed? In the case of Moses, he focused on his reward after work

12. If you eventually succeed now, who will you give the glory to?

13. Having the believe that this your effort is going to be productive, will it not be beneficial to you to see yourself enjoy the fruit of your labour in future?

14. What will help you to press on in this program?

15. When you throw maize chaff out of your car window after eating it, what do you have in mind?

ACFA: THESE PROGRAMS WERE STARTED BUT NEVER SUSTAIND BY THE VARIOUS GOVERNMENTS THAT INSTITUTED THEM.

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Most of such programs that were not sustained are:

1. National Accelerated Food Production Programme (NAFPP) in1972 during General Yakubu Gowon’s regime

2. Agricultural Development Projects (ADP): formerly known as Integrated Agricultural Development Projects (IADP) was earlier established in 1974 in the North East (Funtua), North west (Gusau) and North Central (Gombe) states as pilot schemes.

3. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). was designed to improve the quality of life, improvement in nutrition, by the World Bank, African Development Bank

4. Operation Feed the Nation (OFN): evolved on 21^st May 1976 under the military regime of General Olusegun Obasanjo.

5. Green Revolution (GR) was inaugurated by Shehu Shagari in April 1980

6. Directorate for Food Roads and Rural Infrastructure (DFRRI) was initiated in Nigeria in January 1986 under General Ibrahim Babangida’s administration.

7. River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs).

8. Better Life Programme (BLP) in 1987. was founded in Nigeria by Mrs. Maryam Babangida

9. National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA): This was established in 1992

10. Family Economic Advancement Programme (FEAP) 1996 by late General Abacha and his wife Mrs. Maryam Sani Abacha.

11. Family Support Programme (FSP was initiated in 1994 by Mrs. Maryam Sani Abacha

12. National Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy (NEEDS). was initiated by Olusegun Obasanjo in 1999

13. States’ Economic Empowerment and Development Strategies (SEEDS)

14. National, Special Programme on Food Security (NSPFS)

15. Root And Tuber Expansion Programme (RTEP)

16. National Fadama Development Project (NFDP) was designed in the early 1990s

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IN every society, the agricultural sector, takes a prominent position in the scheme of things. From providing food for the teeming populace to creating employment for a vast majority of people, agriculture has played and is still playing critical roles to the sustenance of economic and social growth in any society.
Since the creation of Edo State by the then regime of General Ibrahim Babangida out of the former Bendel State in August 27, 1991 and with an estimate 3, 218,332 people, agriculture has been a major source of sustainance Read more..........

SIMPLIFIED ILLUSTRATION OF CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY

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Chapter 1

SIMPLIFIED ILLUSTRATION OF CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY

Let’s take for instance this illustration of a poor villager who has two cows and gets ten litres of milk from it daily and after consumption by his family everyday, he’s still left with a surplus of five liters of milk. What should he do with the surplus? ................ Read More

Chapter 2

WHAT IS CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY

Co-operative Society has been defined in so many ways. For instance, N. Akpan defined co-operative as a group of people that come together on equal basis to promote their economic interest. Mr. J. E. Oseromo, a one time Director of Co-operatives, Edo State, also defined Co-operative Society as a family of people who have come together on equal basis to promote their economic interest, and share equal risk. Why Mr. P. E. Akhigbe a one time lecturer in the Edo State Co-operative College define it as owner formed, owner managed and owner use. On his part, Mr. S. E. Ilegbinosun defines Co-operative society as business of the people, by the people and for the people.

But In 1995, in order to apply the uniformity to the various definitions, the International Co-operative Alliance (ICA) definition stands accepted by all co-operators. And the definition is: - “A co-operative society is an autonomous association of persons who have voluntarily joined together to achieve a common economic and social objective through the formation of a jointly-owned and democratically controlled business organization. Which its Members are expected to make equitable contributions to the capital required and also to accept a fair share of the risks and benefits of the undertakings. Co-operative societies work on the principles of self-help and mutual assistance to provide services for their members in a prudent and effective manner”

When did Co-operative Society Started.

Robert Owen (1771–1858) is considered the father of the cooperative movement. Base on the important role he played towards enhancing the success of founding the cooperative society.

Although, it has been ascertained that cooperative movement began in Europe in the 19th century, primarily in Britain and France, the Shore Porters Society claims to be one of the world's first cooperatives, as this was established in Aberdeen in 1498 (although it has since demutualized to become a private partnership).The industrial revolution and the increasing mechanization of the economy transformed society and threatened the livelihoods of many workers affiliated to it. The concurrent labor and social movements and the issues they attempted to address describe the climate at the time.

The first consumer cooperative may have been founded on March 14, 1761, in a barely furnished cottage in Fenwick, East Ayrshire, when local weavers manhandled a sack of oatmeal into John Walker's whitewashed front room and began selling the contents at a discount, forming the Fenwick Weavers' Society. In the decades that followed, several cooperatives or cooperative societies formed including Lennoxtown Friendly Victualling Society, founded in 1812.

By 1830, there were several hundred co-operatives. Some were initially successful, but most cooperatives founded in the early 19th century had failed by 1840.However, Lockhurst Lane Industrial Co-operative Society (founded in 1832 and now Heart of England Co-operative Society), and Galashiels and Hawick Co-operative Societies (1839 or earlier, now Lothian, Borders & Angus Co-operative Society) still trade today. Not until 1844 when the Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers established the ‘Rochdale Principles’ on which they ran their cooperative, that the basis for development and growth of the modern cooperative movement was established.

The readers should understand that what we are talking about here regarding the history of the cooperative movement concerns the origins, history and the sustainable effort applied to enhance the sustainability of cooperatives, today.

CHAPTER 3

HOW COOPERATIVE SOCIETY STARTED

The Rochdale Pioneers

Who really were the Twenty Eight Weavers And How Can We Benefit From Their Effort?

The Rochdale Society or Equitable pioneers was made up of a group of 28 weavers who collaborate with other artisans in Rochdale, England to form the first known co-operative society in the year 1844.

What Led To The Formation?

As the mechanization of the Industrial Revolution was forcing more and more skilled workers into poverty in Britain then, the Weavers faced miserable working condition and low wages. This situation impel them to bring themselves together collectively to form a co-operative group. Before this bold step was taking, the Weavers were not recognized nor assisted by the stronghold of their society. On this ground, they seceded that by pooling their scarce resources together, they can jointly afford goods they need at a reasonable price. To start this venture before they call for help/support from external body, they resolved that all members must subscribe to a share capital of one pound sterling per person over a period of four months. Because they were determined and as they were ready to leave the state of inactiveness they find themselves, they struggled to pool this self tagged resources together, and they were able to raise a total of 28 pounds of capital sum, in the aforementioned time frame. Joyfully! On December 21, 1844, they opened their (the first ever co-operative shop) with a very meager selection of butter, sugar, flour, oatmeal and a few candles. Within three months, they expanded their selection to include tea and tobacco, and they were soon known for providing high quality, unadulterated goods.

How Do They Get Support/Sponsors?

The pioneers after starting up the shop, decided to add value to their products in a systematic way. So, they started to treating shoppers with honesty, openness and respect, since they believed that this will enable their customers appreciate them, their services, and partner with them.

These most modern businessmen knew quite well that they were having only meager fund to administer to their investment. Therefore, they needed affiliate partners. Their openness and transparency eventually encourage their customers, and they actually feel free partnering with them. As they were very sure that they will apportioned their normal share in their profits made from the investment, and they were also given a democratic right to have a say in the business.

What Resulted Afterwards?

Within the shortest possible time in operation, every customers of the shop became a member/partner and so, had a true stake in the business. At first the first co-operative was open for only two nights a week, but within three months of operation, the store had grown so much that customers of the shop urges that is should be open five days a week. The products from the shop was marked in the vicinity, as best and original.

What Lesson Do You Learn?

From the topics discussed above, we have been able to prove that a well planned and properly managed co-operative society is under compulsion to succeed. This is so because, others that we have seen succeeded applied mutual respect for each other, despite the fact that some are older than others. They displayed the sprit of equality and transparency. This quality, if factually applied will enhance oneness. Its this same quality that helped the members of the Rochdale Pioneers co-operative group. Therefore, no matter the members’ financial or societal position, co-operative members are expected to treat themselves equally. This is the only way they can sincerely come out to say, I am a successful cooperator.

Chapter 4

PROPER CO-OPERATION

Proper Co-operation is needed in the structuring of cooperatives. Because, to achieve success there are some fundamentals principles needed. These materials must be applied in order to reposition the movement for it to sustain the text of time. There are some basic elements defined in a simple logical order that helped the 28 weavers to excel as a co-operative group.

The Elements To Be Used

For effective interaction-base to be fashioned, members of the various groups that make up the Association must be taught the benefit of widening out to others this will etch in the members heart and mind, the spirit of tolerance. This is the first key needed to succeed if we want to get the required result from the ASS team services.

We are all aware that what makes the family institution relevant was the structure at which it was founded. Please take note that during the initial existence of this earth, there was nothing like family, but when the creator saw the need to make family on this earth, the Bible say in Genesis 1:26 “let us make man in our own image and likeness to dominate the earth” he did it (Jehovah God)

After creation, the all wise creator made it absolutely understandable to them that for this institution to be sustained, man need to meet up with some basic laid down rules. It is also very clear and accepted that before the 28 weavers in collaboration with the other artisans in Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers in England, came together to form the first known co-operative society in 1844, there was no active or effective co-operative Society, already existing. Although many have tried, but it was not sustained.

What can Make Co-operative Societies/Associations Effective

Co-operative societies, works on the principles of self-help and mutual assistance to provide services for the members in a prudent and effective manner. Every co-operative society must be registered under the co-operative law. Having understood what Co-operative means, we want to discuss briefly how we can use co-operative to achieve our economic goals. To understand this lets talk about the origin of co-operative society.

Co-operators need to do real work together in other to promote each other’s success in a collective way by sharing resources and helping, supporting, encouraging, and applauding each other’s efforts to achieving their individual set goals. There are various activities and interpersonal benefits that can occur when members promote each other’s effort. This includes orally explaining how solve problems, teaching one’s knowledge to others, checking for understanding, discussing among yourselves the kinds of concepts each member know, and comparing present with past learning in order to ascertain areas that needs amend. Therefore having warmth spirit that hatch to oneness, will go a long ay in making things work for easily. You should bear in mind that applying these qualities can go a long way in helping you solve the social as well as the economic problems of every members of your group.

Co-operative Working Principle

Each of the proposed activities embarked upon by the Society/Association should be structured into group task directions and procedures. Doing so help ensure that cooperative learning groups are both an avenue to lean new technological ideas, and assurance base, for the co-operators that as a member of the co-operative movement, he/she will definitely succeed. This required the services of the Academic Support System (ASS). The services of personnel of ASS is needed by all serious minded member of a co-operative society as this will help those that are committed, to keep assisting themselves to succeed.

With the Personal Support System (PSS) also applied by the co-operator, accompanied with he academic support system, every group will have one committed person from the ASS team attached to them to help them realize their dreams. Most co-operators always ask how they can achieve this goal through applying proper Co-operative Approach (PCA).

An ASS team buttress basic facts to them that by working each other sincerely, they are as well actualizing their collective mutual goals. This will also give them the recognition by the co-operative movement known as, “Knowing Yourselves Well, First”.

When we mentioned that the personal support system method can help co-operators to be more committed to the services of the group, we actually mean it’s the legitimate responsibility to join other members of the group to share from both the gains and the loss of the society.

This aspect of the discussion always warrant that we ask ourselves, “is Academic Support System (ASS) in anyway related to that applying co-operative spirit?” this question becomes relevant because most persons believes that Co-operative Spirit, if properly applied, can go a long way to help the group to work in one accord and will result in groups’ harmony and togetherness. This will help co-operative achieve a lot.

Chapter 5

THE CO-OPERATIVE SPIRIT?

Co-operative Spirit is not to be demonstrated in the running of co-operative alone. Applying this principle of togetherness in our daily activities can help the reader to achieve success in all aspect of his/her life. To succeed in this quest, every member of the co-operative society should de well to put the group’s interest above his or her personal interest. That means, as a member of a co-operative, you are suppose to understand that joining the co-operative society, you will have to develop the opportunities of the society for the good of its members. And that you must allow the love you have for the success of the group be above everything else, including you personal interest as earlier written. Except, your religious responsibilities.

As mentioned above, the effort of applying the co-operative spirit is so numerous. It can be regarded as the extra satisfaction that every member will get as a direct result of being a member of a group. If the aforementioned in not visible in a co-operative, what you see will be low satisfaction and his/her eagerness in the initial stage will cool off. This can make a member loose his earlier commitment to the cause of the society.

The initial reason for setting up the co-operative movement by the founding fathers was to create an opportunity geared towards eradicating the hardship being faced by the less privileged people that existed at that time. The recorded story that led to the setting up of co-operative society was that when the mechanization of the Industrial Revolution was forcing more and more skilled workers into poverty, these tradesmen decided to band (co-operate) together to open their own store where they intends to sell some selected food items.

But What Is Co-operative Spirit?

Co-operative spirit is the attitude persons who have agreed to jointly establish a business posses and display. Although many people are interested in becoming a member of co-operative societies` only after it has succeeded. Probably, because they don’t understand the fact that their attention or participation is needed.

Intended cooperators must understand that Successful co-operative groups we see around us today are the ones whose members recognized what co-operative spirit is and applied it. Therefore, I believe that if utmost concentration is centered on explaining this topic in a simple manner to the co-operators, all co-operatives in the state will find positive headway. To apply cooperative spirit therefore; a good cooperative members must;

1. Be positive

2. Work together

3. Be sincere

4. Be truthful

5. Display Genuine Love

How Easy Is It To Exhibit Co-Operative Spirit?

It is true that to affect this quality is not easy. To succeed therefore, we must have an inner conviction that assures us that through this means, we must succeed. We should develop a motivation that what we are involved in, will succeed; we must accept it as a bright light that leads us towards the direction of success. As this is our goal. Believing that we are on the right tract is also important. But it is advisable to display action towards this believe by doing our utmost to participate actively in any of the groups activities that can lead to open door for the organization.

Although many people wish to see what co-operative has offered for others before and what is in the pipeline that they can benefit from it, before they can affiliate to it and pay all their dues. Unfortunately, any group/persons that operate with this scheme in mind can’t be said to possess the co-operative spirit.

Genuine co-operative members must bear in mind that the felt needs of the individual members that made up the group constitute the unfilled desires that tends to drive its members into brink of despair and hopelessness. Such as the need of food, water, shelter, security and protection. Also, because he/she wants to be respected, love and the need of self actualization. Reputable co-operative society should be able to work towards bringing to reality the envisaged dream of the members. They must understand the actual manner of going about what they intend to do. As failure at the onset does not mean failure all the time.

We have learnt that in most African countries, traditional form of co-operation which have survived the impact of colonialism and the structural changes which accompanied the so-called modern society, is the type that enable people to come together to form a “unity of purpose for the protection of the members common interest”.

Such traditional self-help groups may be classified into two main categories of work groups whose members are anticipated to helping each other in rotation or to jointly carry out farming, construction and communal works. Rotating saving and credit associations whose members make regular contributions to a loan fund, has been confirmed by experts to succeed quick. Such groups can be found in every country of sub-Saharan Africa, these groups play a very important role in sustaining their economy.

Chapter 6

CORE VALUE! A TOOL FOR CO-OPERATIVE DEVELOPMENT

What Is Core Value?

Co-operative core value could also means the “harmonized cooperation”, which allow human with equal rights and reciprocated respect for each other work together for the wellbeing of a co-sponsored organization.

Core value is a material that helps to build trust and confidence among its members it is needed in the co-operative business because, cooperative system cannot function effectively in an environment of exploitation, corruption, pride, and materialisms, nor where members are taught to complete with themselves or trained to develop the habit of corruptions to succeed in their process of marketing their goods and doing their supplies.

For cooperatives to succeed therefore, they must have morality among its working-class, as this will help to operate a strong management of their enterprise. Co-operative executives should strive to imbibe community support interest in the minds of their members which is inducted into the cooperative system. Furthermore, cooperatives need ready access to suppliers and markets for their goods and services. And the members of a cooperative must be able to work in a collective spirit and must share similar material aspirations.

Why a Good Co-Operator Needed To Apply Core Value:

For a cooperative society to function efficiently in this politically dominated society, it requires decent people with cooperative values, people with similar material/economic needs. Most importantly people with mutual respect for each other. Having the sense of appropriate organizational and managerial mental structures. This will help them to Demonstrate neutrality. This act of being neutral can help the co-operative group to operate in an environment where the government and other interest groups will come in to render support to them. Real consideration must be given to this basic requirement because cooperatives cannot survive in the absence of sufficient moral base. In other words, strong moral values must first be prevalent among members, in order for the cooperatives to flourish. Relatively, it will become the responsibility of the co-operative managers to create strong moral values in their members in order for the groups to make progress.

Chapter 7

WHY THIS BOOK WAS WRITTEN

This book therefore is designed to offers practical viewpoint for developing cooperative. It will help to examine the co-operative principles, advantages, internal structures, supportive infrastructure, and wider environmental factor necessary for their development. Finally, it will address difficult questions of strategic priorities. This book is to prepare you towards the step you need to take, to prepare you towards setting up co-operative society and running it.

What a Cooperative Members Must Do:

a) A co-operator must be ready to put the interest of his/her co-operative above other interests.

b) A cooperative member must be optimistic that they will be able to succeed through the effort of the group.

c) A prospective co-operative member must understand that to strive in the co-operative business, he must “Understand Co-operative Society”

d) A co-operator should realize the fact that; it is what he/she puts in that he can also get out.

e) A cooperative member must recognize the fact that co-operative society is a business, and that as a member he/she is a share holder. He must also recognize the fact that thrift payment is an integral part of the co-operative system.

f) A co-operator must also understand that co-operative business is all about equal participation and equal benefits. Therefore, anyone that refuses to participate actively must not expect to benefit from the effort of others.

g) A cooperative member must understand the fact that one cannot succeed unless `everyone succeeds. Hence, the spirit of togetherness must be displayed by every member.

For the suggested ideas to be effective, every co-operator must have an emotional interest towards his/her co-operative society. This is expected to enhance more zeal and determination in the mind and hearts of the member in order to help the groups attain success in their investments/endeavors. Another effective material needed by a good co-operator is “Co-operative Spirit”

Chapter 8

THE GOOD THAT IS SCARE!!!

What Is Full Moon?

When the Moon appears perfectly round in the sky, it is known as a “full moon,”

What’s the Difference Between Full Moon and New Moon

When the Moon appears perfectly round in the sky, it is known as a “full moon,” why the New Moon is the onset of a moon in a month setting in. the time the size of the moon is still very tiny.

It’s Significance

The appearance of full Moons is like the end of an Act in your ongoing life story. This is true both on the personal and the global scale. It's like a movie where all the plans/designs are pulled together, and for a brief moment, you can see the interwoven whole. If you concentrate on the final product, you will find out that the full Moon is a time when you begin to make out the path, and can take an exhilarating step forward. It is both a culmination and a time to act on something you've imagined. In the act of doing, you have brought an idea into reality, and made magic.

When the Moon appears perfectly round in the sky, it is known as a “full moon,” indicating that the disc of the Moon is full or complete. This happen on average every 29 days, and advances in astronomy have allowed scientists to carefully predict their patterns. Many traditions and superstitions are associated with the full moon in almost every culture on Earth, especially when the moon becomes eclipsed, as will happen periodically.

Occasionally, two full moons will appear in the same calendar month. The second is known as a "blue moon," and it is relatively uncommon. Some people consider blue moons to be highly auspicious, because of their rarity. More rarely, the month of February will have no full moon, since it is usually only 28 days long. When this happens, January or March will be marked with a blue moon. The Moon is also periodically eclipsed, thanks to its position behind the Earth. When the three planetary bodies reach the perfect alignment, the Earth's shadow will cover the Moon partially or totally.

In the case of the new moon, it is often linked with crime and questionable activity, since the night is dark, allowing people to participate in activities without detection. The full moon, on the other hand, has been associated with insanity, although studies have suggested that the Moon does not have influence on human or animal behavior.

Beauty of the Full Moon

The full Moon often casts an exuberant vibe, making it a great time to have a party. This also opens the door for meaningful programs and projects to strive for appreciative people, thereby allowing them to step into your real life. But keep in mind that it can be intense, too. There's a reason why more patrol-men are sent out on full Moons! Take time to honor yourself in some way for any step you take during full Moon, is easily detected. Not like in the new moon.

Oshiomhole the full moon

Such a thing has never happen before in the life of the Edo people, commented one Mrs. Isibor Alice, a 77 years old mother of 6, who resides in Edo State. And an indigene of Okada by birth. When all things automatically start to turn around for the good of the people, such comments and appreciative remarks are always heard. If you go around town in our present day Edo, What you hear most people say is “This is the beginning of a good lifestyle for the people of the state”. But I, the writer of this book believes the changes that are taking place in Edo Today, is a practical exhibition of what the people want from a good government. Although the process was initially slow, the result so far is perfect; I have always told the people that Comrade Adams Alihu Oshiomhole is one person in a billion. He is scare to come by. But if you have him, you will have to respect the creator of mankind because Oshiomhole has made you to appreciate the purpose for human existence. Many people never believed that Edo would ever experience a government system that will make such visible changes within the shortest possible time.

We! The Edo-farmers in collaboration with other Edo people wish to remain grateful to you Our Comrade governor for helping us to pass through this temping period without serious injury, being inflicted on us, Once again, we thank you for helping us to start benefiting from the dividend of good government.

Will this Gesture Continue?

Most people never believed that farmers will ever be recognized again in this state. Because, for a long time, matter relating to farmers has been a kind of turmoil for the various governments that has served in Edo state. This is true, base on the fact that Farmers were relegated, oppressed, cheated on and even thrown off balance. Accessing various farmers loan and benefiting from other national/international incentives have been very difficult for the dedicated farmers of Edo. For decades now, this trend has been on. It has not been easy for real Edo-farmers to benefit from any incentives directed towards them.

But in the year 2011, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole approved the release of 1 billion naira loan for Edo-farmers, after intervention by the Royal Father of Edo Kingdom, His Royal Highness, Omo’ Noba ‘Nedo, Uku Akpor-lokpor-lor, Oba Erediauwa. The Oba of Benin. we will not fail to be thankful and Loyal to our Comrade governor.

For the reason that we have been recognized and assisted by the people’s governor of Edo State, we want to assure your Excellency, the executive governor of Edo State Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, that we now have cause to really confide in you. We the executive of All Co-operative Farmers Association, Edo State, hereby promise to always support you in this journey of trying to make food available in the state. We know you have not reached your peak in GLORY! We the farmers of the state will do our utmost to make sure you shine to every part of the country like the full moon that comes out in its time, no matter how thick the cloud tries to cover it. You are a full moon and you must shine as a full moon.

Oshiomhole! The Full Moon

At a time in the lifetime of a moon to appear perfectly round the sky, it is usually considers as “full moon” this indicates that the disc of the moon is full or complete. This event does not happen everyday as the moon grows. If we take time to observe the setting in of the moon and how it develops, we’ll find out that this developing into full moon always appear about 29 days after the first appearance of the moon.

What is The Difference Between the New Moon and The Full Moon?

In the case of New Moon it is often linked with crime and questionable characters/activities because at this time, thick darkness overshadow the earth, allowing people to participate in various dubious activities without detection the opposite is often said of the Full Moon. Therefore our previous political Rulers who have ruled this state can no doubt be considered as the full moon rather, new moon. As this title or privilege can only be ascribed to OUR ADAMS OSHIOMHOLE, ALONE.

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Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION TO THE CONSTITUTION

1. Interpretation

All words and expressions used in this document are consequently defined as set out in the Sections below. The following words or expressions shall have the meaning respectively assigned to them below:-

a. “AGM” means the Annual General Meeting of this Association which shall have the period of twelve months hiatus to hold. Beginning on every January 1^st, and ending on the following 31^st December. That means the meeting will be expected to hold between January and February, every year.

b. “Constitution” means the ‘Farmers Cooperative Associations’ regulatory document as unanimously accepted and approved for use by the members of the Association commencing on the 7^th of January, 2013., which can be amended from time to time, with a vital reason.

c. “HE/SHE” here means same as the affiliated members/co-operative Societies registered with this Association.

d. “President” the president shall be the head of the Association. And this position shall be contested for by any interested members of the group who feel he/she is capable to pilot the affairs of the Association. Therefore anybody that wants to work in this capacity must be a full time farmer, (someone that must be available whenever his/her attention is needed).

e. “ACFA” means All Co-operative Farmers Association, Edo State. As can also be referred to as Association of Co-operative Farmers, or Farmers Co-operative Association, Edo State.

f. “Vision Bearer, Live Patron (VIBLIP)” the VIBLIP of this Association shall be the member of this group who have seen the full benefit of coming together as an Association and spread the progress news to others who later became members of this Association. This position is not rotational, nor to be contested, complemented or amended. And it is different from the position of Live Patron of the Association.

g. “Special Life Patron (SPELIP)” the SPELIP of this Association shall be the member of this group who have labored assiduously by collaborating with the VIBLIP to achieve success and development of this body. The VIBLIP and SPELIP positions are very important and sensitive to this Association. Hence, it will never be classified among the contestable positions (positions to be contested for). The person considered to be the collaborator or someone who had play fundamental role towards the success of ACFA only shall be eligible for this SPELIP position..

h. “ACFA” All Co-operative Farmers Association, Edo State.” this shall be the name of this group. ‘ASSOCIATION’ in this context mean ‘Friendly coming together’ while “CO-OPERATIVE” ‘here mean, persons who have develop the habit to help one another’ “FARMER” used here in relation to this Association mean ‘cultivators’. In summing up the various words used in relation to the purpose of founding this Association, we could say that this Association is a Co-operative Farmers Community Association, Edo State. That is, they have brought themselves together as good friends to set up a community made up of persons with the intention to help one another, in the area of agriculture.

i. If there shall arise any doubt regarding the meaning or intention of any of the words used in this constitution, please consult the “Code of Conduct” or the “Exclusive paper” of this Association. Or otherwise, refer the matters to the Honorable Commissioner for Youth and Sports, for Ruling.

2. Name, Address and Area of Operation

a. This amalgamated group shall be called ALL CO-OPERATIVE FARMERS ASSOCIATION, EDO STATE. (ACFA) as registered with the Ministry of Youth and Sport, Edo State. And the official address shall be 262 UPPER EKENWAN ROAD, UGBIGHOKO QUARTERS, BENIN CITY, EDO STATE.

b. This Association Of Co-operative Farmers, Edo State, having solemnly resolved to live in unity and harmony as one indivisible and indissoluble organization under Jehovah’s guidance, and dedicated to the promotion of ideas expected to lead to the success of all its members/affiliates and has anticipated to operate in all the Local Government Areas of Edo State, within the Nigeria boundary, the Africa continent and the world at large; In order to promote the state, national, and international Co-operation and understanding, among the co-operative enthusiasts.

And to provide: For all members of the Association a constitution for the purpose of promoting the good intention of the VISSION BEARER of this alliance, and to be concern with the welfare of all its registered members on the principles of freedom, equality and justice. For the purpose of consolidating the progress of all members/affiliates of this conglomerate. Its motto shall be “Great Farmers! Great Nation….. No Farmers! No Food….. No Food! No Life…….”

3. Supremacy of the Constitution

A. This constitution is supreme and its provision shall be binding on all the authorities and members that are registered with The All Co-operative Farmers Association, Edo State. Throughout the local government area, the state, nation and the world at large.

B. All Co-Operative Farmers Association, Edo State. Shall be governed only by persons that come into service/authority in accordance with the provision of this constitution.

C. This Association shall operate in all the 18 Local Government Areas of the state, which shall be categorized into three zones, as follows:-

1. Edo South zone

2. Edo Central Zone

3. Edo North Zone

D. There shall be, for this Association, seven members of Executives, of which the Secretary is a member.

E. The Trustees of this Association shall consist of the president, secretary and one other person, as may be approved by the executives. They shall be saddled with the responsibilities to meet from time to time in order to run the business of the Association, effectively and profitably.

F. There shall be an appointment letter to be addressed to every member who have been voted for or appointed to serve in the position of executive of this Association. It shall be certified by the beneficiaries that he understands what the assignment contained, and that he/she still wish to accept it. By signing the document will attest to the fact that he/she understood what his assignment mean ‘Putting the Interest of the Association, above other responsibilities’.

4. Aims and Objectives

The aims and objectives of the ALL CO-OPERATIVE FARMERS ASSOCIATION

shall be;

1. To engage in thrift/credit operations and other transaction that is geared towards

assisting all members of this Association financially.

2. To engage in any agricultural undertakings that will spur up the interest of all

members of this Association into developing more concentration for this venture.

3. To assist small scale businessmen/women with micro loan to boost their Businesses by organizing them into clusters to form co-operative entrepreneurial groups. And to bring the women together to form groups in order to care for the need of all women, affiliated to this Association.

4. To undertake simple processing, packaging and marketing of co-operative farm products.

5. To create avenue for peaceful coexistence among all its members and individual Farmers in the State.

6. To primarily operate on the principle of self-help in every aspect of our economy.

7. To stock and distribute consumers commodities to the communities at reasonable prices. To engage in import/export, act as manufacturers’ representatives and to operate transport services.

8. To provide effective and profitable agricultural services to all, and to market/distribute fresh and original foodstuffs direct from the farm to interested customers, in HOME service transactions.

9. To be present in every Agricultural and Co-Operative Meetings, Seminars, Workshops and Summit organized/held in the instance of promoting the welfare of all co-operative farmers in the state.

10. To encourage and assist in giving our members the privilege to complete their secondary school course, if he/she so wish for this assistance. As we will set-up Adult school for our farmers in the ACFA farming Communities.

11. To become a member of any National or international Association whose objectives are whole or similar to the objects of the Association.

12. To print, publish and distribute to members newspaper or other publications designed in the

interest of promoting co-operative principles and practice.

13. To organize and congregate all co-operative farmers in the state, assist them to Acquire Lands/Building for use, to affect the life of the general public positively, and to undertake any civil works.

14. To engage in oil field services and any other engineering/construction works.

15. To protect and defend all co-operative farmers in the state, by making meaningful

representation to the Legislative, Executive and the Judiciary.

16. To operate one of the most potent means of capital accumulation, through the savings of

members.

17. To carry out any other activities designed to encourage the spirit and practice of

cooperation, and to promote the business and lifestyle of all members of this Association.

5. Our Mission

Our mission shall be to make sure that all Co-operative Farmer in the state speak collectively as one indivisible and indissoluble entity. As this will assist in appreciating the individual effort put in, to addressing the problems affecting both the individual and co-operative farmers registered to this Association, in the State.

6. Membership and Liability

The membership of Association shall consist of;

1. Members who joined by means of registration.

2. Members admitted in accordance with this constitutional provision.

7. Qualifications to becoming a member of The Association

Every member of The Association Of Co-Operative Farmers, Edo State must be;

1. Discipline, honest, and loyal to the rules of law of The Association as stipulated in this constitution, and the Associations Code of Conduct.

2. Members’ groups must be made up of mature mind of not less than 18 years old. They should be enterprising and business like.

3. Members must be ordinarily residence in Edo State, but in the case that a member leave the area of membership of this Association; he/she may retain his/her membership therein. But may not borrow there from, excess of his/her capital.

4. Members of this Association, must be truthful, self-employed and someone who is motivated and passionate about farming as a business.

5. Intending affiliate members must be good listeners. They must never at any time be rude to any member of the executives, and must listen carefully before commenting in the meetings.

6. The Association wished to be made up of people who do not say what they cannot establish the fact. This attracts a fine.

7. This Association will never admit groups or Societies who already is a member of any organizations of which its aims is in any way, similar to that of this Association. If the group, Society or organization still wishes to affiliate to this Association, he must therefore resign his membership with his previous organization.

8. Requirements for admission

a. Application form shall be collected from the office Secretariat for the sum of non-refundable N500= (five hundred naira only)

b. An application for membership which must be attached to the form shall be made in writing and conveyed through the Secretary whom, shall disposed it of to the executives who may grant or refuse admission of such application which they assumed is not qualified to be a member of the Association.

c. An appeal can be made through a member to the general meeting, if the executives refuse his/her application.

d. Every member on admission shall provide a comprehensive list of the name of their members and the activities they have embarked on so far, since the formation of the affiliating group.

e. The affiliating co-operative society shall subscribe to the associations’ identity card, which certifies that they are bonafide member of the All Co-Operative Farmers Association, Edo State (ACFA).

9. Termination of membership

Membership shall be terminated;

1. By death.

2. In case of permanent insanity.

3. If not willing to obey the rules and regulations of the Association anymore.

4. If he ceases to reside in the area of operation as described in this constitution.

5. If a member of this Association is found to belong to another group of which its aim is same as that of this Association.

6. If he ceases to hold one full capital share with this Association.

7. If he willingly decides to withdraw from the Association, but must convey the notice to the Association through the secretary. So that his record can be checked whether he/she is owing, or a surety to any other person.

8. If deceit, lies, double game, is found in him/her. And if he/she is found to be prejudicial.

10. Past members liability

a. If a member seizes to be an affiliate of this Association, he shall be referred to as a past member. And he shall be liable for the debt owed by this Association, if the debt was incurred when he was still a member. He is free from such dept only if the fact shows that the dept was incurred two years after he ceases to be a member.

b. The property of a member group who determine to terminate his membership with this Association, shall be liable for the dept owed by such group to the Association, if it is confirmed that such property existed within the period he was a member of the Association till his intentions became known, Or within the period of two years after his intention had been known.

c. If a member owes the Association at the time of account check and balance, whether present member or past member, his money with the Association will be used to offset the dept owed. If he has no savings with this Association at this time, other legal measures will be taken by the Association to recover the debt. Even if it is a surety he/she stands for, for another member.

Chapter 2

The Power and Duties of the Executives

11. Officers

The president, the Vice President and Treasurer of the association shall have the period of three years to operate and shall resign at the Annual General Meeting which falls on the third year from the date he/she was elected into office as official of the Association, but shall be eligible for re-election. If not re-elected, they shall function as ex-officio members of the executive. What the co-operative sector has been missing all these while in this part of the globe has been their ability to make a clear distinction between the “management” and “governance” of the movement. The president there to govern, why the secretary/manager is to manage. Any vacancy arising due to the death of a member of the executives elected at an executive Meeting shall temporarily fill removal, withdrawal or transfer of an officer.

The officers shall consist of the following;

A. president

B. Vice president

C. Secretary

D. Treasurer

E. Head of Coordinators (HOC)

F. Task force chairman

G. Public relation officer

H. Farm Manager

I. Assistant treasurer

J. Assistant farm manager

12. Duties of the officers and the secretary

i. President; the president shall preside at all general and executive meetings of the association, and shall have the power to convey meetings. Therefore anybody that intends to function in the capacity of the president of this Associations’ must be a full time farmer, (must be available, whenever needed) someone that must be available whenever his/her attention is needed.

ii. Vice President; in the absence of the president, the vice president shall have all the powers of the president, and shall preside in all executive and general meetings.

iii. The Treasurer; the treasurer shall take charge of all the money received by the organization from both its members and from other transactions made. And shall make disbursement in accordance with the instruction by the trustee of the Society, as recommended by the executives. Any fund realizes by the organization, should be deposited by the treasurer in any bank approved for the purpose by the general meeting. All such fund must be deposited in the name of THE ASSOCIATION OF CO-OPERATIVE FARMERS. Therefore anybody that wants to work in the capacity of the Associations Treasurer must be a full time farmer, (someone that must be available whenever his/her attention is needed).

iv. Task force chairman; the Task Force Department of ASSOCIATION OF CO-OPERATIVE FARMERS shall be headed by a Taskforce Chairman who will work closely with the secretary in order to have access to the record of all the members and non members of the association that has borrowed money from this body.

a. The task force chairman shall have the power(s) to seal up the business place of any beneficiary of this association that mismanage the money borrowed or default, in payment.

b. The task force department shall be obligated to serve as inspector to assist the secretary recover any money (loan) given out to both the members and non members of this Association, the Task force chairman will be made to lead a team that will monitor the usage of such money by the individual or group.

c. All matters regarding loan recovery is strictly the responsibility of the task force department who will closely work with the secretary, in order to achieve this goal.

v. Farm manager; the farm manager shall be in charge of all activities relating to the farming sector of this Association and will be headed by the farm manager who will always report all its activities to the office of the Secretary/manager, for prompt response.

vi. Public Relation Representative (PRR); the public relation representative of

this association, must be a complete gentleman, a full time farmer found to be excelling in his farming business. He must have a formal understanding of Agric business, So that he can be able to represent the group effectively when called upon to do so. This office will work directly with the office of the Secretary in order to be furnished with the latest information of the Association. Therefore the public relation representative is expected to represent the organization anytime a representative is requested for. Either in the media or other relevant places the attention of this body may be required.

vii. Assistant farm manager; the assistant farm manager will act in the place of the farm manager, in the absence of the farm manager.

viii. Secretary;

The executives of this Association shall appoint a General Secretary. Who will be entrusted with the management of all ventures of the Association, including keeping in safe custody of the seal, certificate and other relevant documents of the ACFA. Therefore anybody that wants to work in the capacity of the Associations Treasurer must be a full time farmer, (someone that must be available whenever his/her attention is needed).

13. Competencies (in order of Importance)

(A) An executive should be person(s) of high Integrity. because his assignment requires his being honest and ethical

(B) A member of the executive must be person(s) who have concern for others as it is very obvious that his assignment requires being sensitive to the plight of others. In the case of their needs and feelings.

(C) The Associations’ executive must be understanding and helpful. Both to the people inside and even outside the Associations range.

(D) A member of the executive must be ready to display the spirit of cooperation at free will in order to fulfill his obligation which requires him/her, to be pleasant with others in the process of accomplishing his responsibilities. He should also learn to display a good-nurtured cooperative attitude.

(E) He must be patient enough to give attention to detail because as a member of the executive, he is expected to give true judgment to issues. Hence he is required to be careful about details or the information’s he receives which is expected to be forwarded to others, may have been corrupted be fore sending it. Cautiousness in this regard will show that he is thorough in doing his work task.

(F) An executive should accept Dependability. Since his work requires being reliable, responsible, dependable and fulfilling obligations without regret.

14. Qualities Required From Persons Vying For The Position Of An Executive of ACFA

Persons intending to serve in the position of an Executive/Committee Member of this All Co-Operative Farmers Association must be ready to display the qualities outlined below. He/she must also be free from speculating/promulgating prejudicial stories, as this negative quality if exhibited, can tear apart an organization within the twinkle of an eye.

This prejudicial spirit if displayed can lead to acute jealousy known as envy. Hence anyone who urges to serve as a member of the management team must avoid being prejudicial.

1. Must be Positive

2. Must be ready to work together with others

3. Must be receptive

4. Must be sincere

5. Must be truthful

6. Display Genuine love

7. Must be ready to serve Faithfully

8. Must be ready to put the interest of the Association above his personal interest.

Therefore, in their conduct of the affairs of the Association, the Executive/Committee members shall exercise the prudence and diligence of ordinary men/women of business and shall be responsible for any loose sustained through acts of omission contrary to the law, the regulation or this constitution.

Note: The various Executive positions to be contested for in this Association will not be assigned to zones or areas; rather it is base on the credit of the individuals and their qualifications. And in the consideration for persons for these responsible positions, the contestants must meet up with the specified legal requirement for vying for these positions as outlined below.

1. Contestants must not be owing the Association.

2. He must be a regular and financial member of ACFA.

3. He must be known to be free of prejudice. (should be of good standing with ACFA)

4. He must be well acquainted with the principles and structure of the co-operative movement.

5. Every contestant must be known to be truthful, sincere and determined to work towards the growth and development of the Association.

15. Duties s of the Secretary/Manager

The duties of the secretary have been assigned as follows;

1. To summon and attend General Meetings, executives, and Committee Meetings

2. To manage the affairs of the association in accordance with the principles and structures of the co-operative society movement as approved by the International Co-operative Alliance (ICA)

3. To maintain correctly and up-to date the prescribed books and registers.

4. To procure from borrowers the due execution of bonds with security

5. To prepare all receipt, vouchers and documents required by the regulations

Or the constitution or called for by the executives.

6. To sign all relevant documents on behalf of the association and conduct its correspondence.

7. To record the proceedings of such meetings and have them duly signed.

8. To prepare and submit to the Committee the Annual Accounts and Statements

9. To certify copies of entries in book under section 21 of the co-operative Bye-law.

10. To supervise the transactions of the organization and to spell out the penalties for all offence committed by any member (s) of the organization.

11. To hold in safe custody the Seal and relevant document of all the dealings of the association, including the Certificate of registration of the ACFA Association.

12. To perform such other duties of managing the affairs of the association effectively, or other responsibilities such that the executive of the association may delegate to him.

16. Qualification To The Executive Offices

1. The president; A person shall be qualified for the election into he office of the president if:-

a) He is legitimate citizen of Edo State by birth.

b) He is up to the age of 30 years.

c) He has been educated up to the Primary School Leaving Certificate or it’s equivalent.

d) He/she is willing to uphold the ability to give attention to what others are saying and to give positive response to it. And to adjust his/her actions in relation to the action of others, in order to be able to manage his own time and the precious time of others.

e) He must be free of prejudicial character of any sort and must be full time Farmer.

2. Vice-President; same as president

3. Treasurer; A person vying for election into the office of the Treasurer:

a. He must be legitimate citizen of Edo State by Birth.

b. He must be up to the age of 30 years and,

c. He has been be educated up to the Primary School Leaving Certificate or its equivalent.

d. Must be free of prejudicial character of any sort, and must be full time Farmer.

4. Secretary; A person to be appointed into the office of the Secretary,

a. Must be a legitimate citizen of Edo State by Birth.

b. He must be up to the age of 30 years and,

c. He must have been educated up to the First School Leaving Certificate or its equivalent.

d. Must be free of prejudicial character of any sort, and must be full time Farmer.

Note: this will be applicable to other relevant positions of the associations as certified by the

Executives.

17. The Women Should Be Empowered To Obtain Their Targeted Full Objectives

Women, a viable tool for economy stabilization have not fully been empowered to demonstrate their skills as it relates to community development and human management. This act of seclusion has not essentially allowed them to exhibit to the full, the gift of nature imbedded in them, the various governmental authorities therefore should recognize the fact that for reality, women have important role to play in order to promote the economic stability of their immediate environment, locality, communities, states, and the nation in-general.

Because of this undisputable fact, the All Co-Operative Farmers’ Association, Edo State has resolved to empower women as recommended by the Associations’ Constitution Drafting Committee, and approved by the general house. The followings are some resolve made;

a. That AFCA women will be ascribe their proper place in the scheme of things,

b. That AFCA women will be given the opportunity to occupy about 20 – 25% of the seat of executives of the Association.

c. That appropriate sensitization will be made to enable women understand the system of operation in this Association.

d. That an arm will be set up in the Association to be operated by women themselves, which will be known as Co-operative Women Marshal (COWOM) they shall be the representatives of all women farmers and entrepreneurs operations in the state. If this is done, they are sure to help the movement identify the felt need of all their members, and to make sure they are wholly being represented.

Some other ways to empower women as recommended by the All Co-operative Farmers movement, is for women to be ascribe their proper place in the scheme of things, which otherwise could mean that women should in practical zing made to occupy to 20% of the seat of the executive of the Association of Co-Operative Farmers.

The general view of women is, if they are fully mobilize, and given the clout authority) to operate independently with all the required assistance rendered, they will be able to identify the peoples felt need which will enable them to know the appropriate program to set-up in order to meet the need of the people, one on one or attending to them individually. Such inclusion of women into community development programs will bring out the potentials in them. This will give them joy as they are no more sidelined.

Chapter 3

18. CONSTITUTION AND THE DUTIES OF THE GENERAL MEETING

The ultimate authority under the law in all the affairs of the ASSOCIATION OF CO-OPERATIVE FARMERS, Edo State, shall be the general meeting. But, the Trustees shall meet from time to time or at least once in three months to review and direct the work of the association.

Meeting Attendance:

It is the duty of all registered members of the ASSOCIATION OF CO-OPERATIVE FARMERS to attend all schedule meetings. Failing to do so;

i. Fine will be impose on any member who fails to attend any meeting

Called for by the executives, the secretary, the president, or the VIBLIP of this Association.

ii. All matters shall be decided by a majority vote by members up to one forth

of the members in attendance. When such matters are decided, each member shall have one vote only. In all the meetings.

iii. Therefore, meeting attendance is a major requirement for any group that

have decided to be a member of this ASSOCIATION OF CO-OPERATIVE FARMERS.

19. The duties of the ordinary general meeting shall be as follows:

(1) Suspend or remove from office any member, officer or member of the executive who erred, in accordance with the associations constitution.

(2) Confirm the admission or expulsion of members.

(3) Fix the rate of interest to be charged on loans to members;

(4) Ratify the appointment of the Secretary on the recommendation of the Executives. But members must have a logical reason to support such move.

(5) Dispose-of any other business, duly brought before it.

20. Powers And Meetings Of The Executives Of All Co-operative Farmers Association, Edo State

Meetings of the executives shall be held when necessary and at least once a month. The attendance of such meeting will be at least, five members to be able to dispose of any business. And the executives shall exercise all the powers of the association, except those reserved for the general meeting. Subject to any regulation or restriction duly lay down in the associations’ constitution by the general meeting. The executives shall have the powers stated as follows;

(1) To observe in all their transaction the constitution the regulation, and the Bye-Laws.

(2) To ensure the maintenance of true and accurate accounts of money received and expended, and all the assets and liabilities of the Association. To make sure they are properly entered into the Ledger or relevant account books

(3) To make sure the register of members is kept correct and up-to-date.

(4) To present to the annual General Meeting an income and expenditure account and an audited Balance Sheet;

(5) To examine the accounts, sanction contingent expenditure, and supervise the maintenance of the Associations’ register.

(6) To consider the inspected notes of the Government Staffs and take necessary action;

(7) To recommend the admission of new members subject to the confirmation of a General Meeting.

(8) To arrange for the recovery of share installments and interest on overdue installments.

(9) To summon General Meeting.

(10) The executive committee shall have the power to set up representatives in the Local Government Areas and Zones. The LGA shall be referred to as Area while the Zones will be called zone. The Association will be represented in all the L.G.A areas by area Coordinators and represented in the zones by Zonal Coordinators.

(11) To contract loans subject to any restriction imposed by General Meeting, the president or the VIBLIP of the Association.

(12) To decide the terms on, and the periods for which loans are to be given and to approve or reject the security offered by borrowers.

(13) To remind the secretary/manager to arrange for the recovery of loans and interest and to sanction renewals when necessary.

(14) To decide the terms of, the periods for, and the rates of interest at which deposits and loans from non-members are to be received, and to arranged for the payment or return of such deposit or loans.

(15) To decided the terms of purchase and sales of any goods or stock which the Association may require for its members and to arrange for the sales and the safe custody of such assets while in stock.

(16) To critically observe that members/borrowers utilize the loans for which purpose it was requested for.

(17) To assist in the inspection of the books by any person/agent authorized to do so.

(18) To institute conduct, defend, compromise, refer to arbitration, or abandon legal proceedings by or against the Committee, its Officers or employees in matter concerning the affairs of this Association.

(19) To take necessary action regarding debtor or delinquent members

(20) To carry on the business of the Association, watch over the interest of its members, and to set an example of keenness and co-operative spirit to others who are not yet members of the Association.

(21) The All Cooperative Farmers Association, Edo State shall act as an agent on

behalf of all co-operative Farmers, and Small Scale Entrepreneurs in Edo State of Nigeria for easy facilitation of any kind of incentives and information’s to all Cooperative farmers in the state.

In their conduct of the affairs of the organization, the executives are expected to exercise the prudence and diligence of ordinary men/women of business and shall be responsible for any loss sustained through the acts of omission contrary to the laws, the constitution, and the Bye-Laws.

21. Disposal Of Contract

1.The presence of at least one forth of the total members of the executives shall have the power(s) to disposal of any business. Provided that, where the total numbers of members exceeds seven, two or three members as the case may be shall surface. But the General Secretary must be aware and fully involved.

3. BORROWING: The Executive may on behalf of the Association borrow such money as may be necessary to promote the objects of the Association from sources approved by the General Meeting of the Association, as recommended by the Executive Committee.

No resolution passed by the General Meeting shall invalidate any act validity done by the executives of the Association before the general passing of the Resolution.

Chapter 4

Finance

22. Creation of fund

The primary source of income generation for the Association (ACFA) shall consist of the followings;

1. Membership form of non refundable N500= (five hundred naira only) as the need arises.

2. Entrance Fee of N5, 000= (five thousand naira only) must be paid by every cooperative society that wish to affiliate to this Association.

3. Every member must be registered to the Associations’ Community farm with a non refundable sum of N3, 500= (three thousand, five hundred naira only) to subscribe for one acre of farmland.

4. In accordance with this constitutions requirement, every affiliated members of the Association must subscribe to a minimum share of N20, 000= (twenty thousand naira only).

5. There shall be compulsory thrift and saving to be paid by every members of this Association.

6. Every registered members of this Association shall pay monthly dues of N1, 000= (one thousand naira only) for the running of the Association. These can be amended from time to time.

7. Every member shall be made to pay project dues anytime there is a project to be embarked upon by the Association.

23. Payment and Operation Of Shares

Every member must hold at least 20,000 full shares of the minimum of N1.00= per share, the share shall not be transferable. But divided shall be paid to subscribers anytime there is profit realized from the business the investment was used for.

Shares shall be paid up in not more than 6 monthly installments. Any member may pay up the full value in advance at any time. Members not paying their installments by the due date may be fined for every full month of arrears.

24. Maximum on Share Holding

No member shall hold more than one fifth of the number of shares paid, by a member group. If any member, by Inheritance or otherwise, become possessed of more than the maximum share permitted, the executives, may sell the excess or buy them on behalf of and for disposal by the Association.

25. Confiscation of Shares

Shares shall not be unconditionally withdrawn; but if at the end of the financial year the association financial situation is favorable, the executives may repay to any member whose membership was terminated during the year a sum not exceeding the amount paid by him on account of shares, when a written document has been effected in respect of the groups withdrawal from the Association. Provided that not more than five percent of the total paid share capital shall be returned back to investors in any one year without the VIBLIP permission-

26. Loans

a). Deposit and loans from non-members;

The Association shall not incur any liability towards non-members in excess of the sum equal to three fourths of the total cumulative value of the paid up share capital, all reserves and Thrift savings, and shall not begin to accept any such deposits or loans from non – members.

b). Loans from External Body; The All Co-Operative Farmers Association can seek for loan from any external body provided majority of the executives of Association approves of it to cater for the need of its registered members.

c). Interest on loan to non members;

The rate of interest the Association shall pay to non-members on loans or deposits to the body shall not exceed 6% per annum nor shall it exceed three fourth of the rate of interest charged by the Association on loans to members.

d). Purpose of loan;

Loans may be granted to member only for purposes, which in the belief of the executives are productive, or necessary, and in the best interest of the borrower. Any loan giving out; and found not to be used for the purpose it was given to such individual/group(s) shall be demanded back from the borrower, without prior notice, by the executives of this Association (complete with all its interest).

e). Application for loans;

Application for loan shall be made through the secretary and disposed of by the executives.

f). circumstance surrounding giving/approval of loans;

No loans shall be granted to:

i. Any individual other than a member of the Association.

ii. Any member whose installments of shares are still pending.

iii. Any member who has not paid thrift savings under section AP3

of this constitution

g). Loans to members;

No loans shall be granted to a member within a month of his admission by the executives except in the case of the transfer of an existing loan of a past member to his nominee or other successor in interest who is or become a member of the Association.

h). Loans to other registered Society/Associations

With the prior approval of one third of the executives of this Association, a loan may be granted to another registered society/Association’s who may have not been affiliated to this Association.

i). No loans shall be approved for any member;

1. For a period exceeding the time limit fixed by the executives of

the Association

2. If it will make a member’s debit at the time of the loan

to the amount to be borrowed exceeds his maximum credit limit.

3. Unless approved by majority of the members of the executives

who were present in the meeting at which the approval was considered.

j). Amount to be paid as Interest on loan to members

Interest on loan to members shall be charged at a rate to be fixed by the Committee annually and approved by the General Meeting, but shall in no case exceed 20% per annum. In the case of default in repayment penal interest shall be charged at twice the nominal rate.

27. Uses and custody of funds

The fund of this Association shall be called trustee fund and it shall be utilize for the purpose of developing the activities and programs of the Association.

28. Investments Such of the funds of the Association as are not required for currents use may be invested in any manner permitted by Law as set out in this constitution, or for other purpose considered to be beneficial to this Association and its members.

Chapter 5

29. Marketing Members Produce

To thrive in achieving the target of acquiring and effectively marketing all members produce realized from the Associations Community farm, as outlined below, the following must be accomplished;

1. The president, secretary, H.O.C and the VIBLIP of this Association shall be entitle to a means of mobility i.e. motorcycle, car. etc. to enhance fluent operation of this Associations’ transaction.

2. The Association shall make sure all required official provisions available to make sure they are connected to the web services, n order to promote the goods and services of ACFA members’ goods and services.

3. The farmers Cooperative Community farm will be operated by the design made available by the secretary of this Association and approved by the members.

(a) The Association shall decide which produce it shall market and shall

make plans ultimately to market such goods for all such registered members.

(b) When the Association has decided to market any particular type of

Produce for its members, it shall be bound to sell that produce primarily to interested members otherwise can market to external organizations.

highest quality and free from adulteration. Produce, which falls below the standards set by the Association, may be rejected and the erring Society/member shall be disciplined appropriately.

(d) The Association shall have genuine measuring scales or other means

of measuring produce and shall give member a receipt showing the weight volume or other measure, and the value of the produce after deducting toll, if necessary.

(e) The Association may either pay the member the value of the produce at the time of purchase or the benefiting co-operative society may wait until the Association has sold the produce, or may pay an installment of the value as the member may decide.

30. Budget/Appropriations:-

i. A budget of anticipated revenues and expenditures for the ensuring year shall be presented by the executive directors of this Association and shall be submitted to the Annual General meeting for approval.

ii. No resolutions shall be introduced nor declaration made at a meeting of the Association of the executives or Committees or at any other meeting under the auspices of the Association which in the opinion of the presiding officers is contrary to this constitution, and no officers, director, employee or agent when speaking or acting on behalf of the Association shall speak contrary to this constitution or the Bye-law.

iii. What The Appropriation shall contain:

a. About 10% shall be credited to Education Fund

b. At least 25% shall be credited to the Associations’ Reserve Fund

c. Dividend not exceeding 10% shall be directed towards, or regarded as reward for members who have paid their full membership capital share. This may be facilitated in any particular year the Association makes good turn-over in the Ventures embarked upon.

d. There shall be Five percent of the total profit made by the Association put forward as an appreciation by the Association as will be remunerated as honoraria to the VIBLIP of this association, annually, for conceiving and demonstrating that farmers can manage their affairs effective, and sustainably.

e. There shall payment of honoraria to the members of executives who have worked relentlessly towards the growth of the Association, as may be decided by the General Meeting.

f. Dividend shall be paid to members for their savings with the Association as may be decided by the General Meeting.

g. The SPELIP of this Association shall be rewarded with three percent of the total profit made by the Association

h. 10% of the net surplus shall be directed towards charitable purposes.

i. The balance shall be credited to any developmental, propaganda, insurance or other funds authorized by the General Meeting. Dividend shall not be paid to any member while any claims due from depositor or lender remain unsettled.

NOTE: There shall be constructed in the farm community;

1. A Ware house.

2. A cottage/processing mill, which shall accommodate Drying machine, Packaging facilities, and etc.

3. There shall be constructed blocks of offices to be utilized by the various working officers.

4. Main Hall for meeting Seminars and workshop shall also be constructed in the co-operative farm community.

5. The Association shall be responsible for the sales, purchase, processing and marketing of all produce from the farm.

6. That as All Co-operative farmers Associations representatives, our tentacles drape all features of Agriculture. Ranging from any kind of Animal Husbandry, Tree Crops, Cash Crops, Arable Crops etc, cultivated in Edo State.

Chapter 6

31. The Decree

CD1. Issues discussed in the executives meeting which has not been approved by the

executives or the president shall not be convey to members, i.e. if the executives are working on modality to purchase a large expanse of land to be distributed to all members at a considerable price, must not be put across to anyone, except to a member of the executive, until the person so appointed makes it public. Violators will be punished according by the specified law.

CD2. The president shall not be allowed to transact any business in the Name of the

Association single-handedly. Neither should he receive goods, incentives, or other benefit aimed towards ameliorating the plight of the members of the Association without the knowledge of, or involvement of one or two other executives. Of which the Secretary should be one. And should not be found to be diverting the business of this Association, or agreeing with others to divert/convert a business directed towards this Association.

CD3. Business aimed at improving the lifestyles of All Co-Operative Farmers

Association directly or indirectly must never be re-directed to the custody of any individual in the Association, Except a unanimous agreement was first reached by the executives. As violators will be punished according to the law.

CD4. The section of this constitution that relates to the positions of the VIBLIP and

SPELIP of this Association, shall never be amended nor adjusted, unless more recognition is going to be attached to it.

CD5. Absenteeism shall never been entertained from any registered members of this

Association, as it attracts fine. Late arrival to meeting will pay a fine.

CD6. This Association shall not condone members’ failure to pay his Thrift,

dues, and other gainful due and savings. As failure to pay up regularly attract

price.

CD7. Noise making in the meeting/phone ringing shall strictly be prohibited. As the

meeting is a place were like-minded business oriented individuals collectively come together to finalize their contract. Hence noise may cause distraction. Therefore offender shall be made to pay a price for the breach.

CD8. Insulting one another in the meeting shall be regarded as a serious offence by

this Association, and shall attracts fine. As both parties except one kept quiet or does not respond. This later one shall be free of the fine.

CD9. The divided paid on shares shall not exceed 5% and no dividend shall

be paid if any overdue claim to a depositor or lender remains unclear.

CD10.

/pg. 17

If the business or contract of this Association fails because the treasurer becomes inefficient, shall attract serious penalties.

Chapter 7

32. PENALTIES

The General Meeting of this Association shall impose fines on members and staffs that violates the rules and regulations as lay down by this Association. Minimum fine will not be below two hundred Naira (N 200.00) in any one case, for flagrant or repeated contravention of these Laws or Decrees.

AP1. Any executive who reveals the confidential matters of the Association without prior permission by the appropriate authorities shall be expelled from the Association and all his previous dues and benefits shall be confiscated.

AP2. The president or any member of the executives who divert, plan to divert, coalesce with others to divert or is aware of the plot to divert programs/projects directed towards the Association. Shall be fined N10, 000= (ten thousand naira only), queried, or suspended from his office. Or may attract all aforementioned punishments.

AP3. Any member group who fails to pay his Thrift/Dues, Savings consecutively for three months shall be suspended, unconditionally, from the Association, for failure to meet up with his membership obligation(s). If negotiations for reinstatement is started, the group shall be made to pay three (3) times what he owes. Such group may not benefit from any incentives from the Association henceforth.

AP4. Absenteeism from meeting for 6 consecutive times attracts suspension from the

Association.

AP5. If it is found out that any executive of the Association of Co-Operative Farmers is going into contract with any individual, organization or governmental parastal in lieu of the Association without the knowledge of one or two other executives of which the secretary should be one, will lead to the suspension of such person. Pending, the outcome of the committee so set-up to investigate the purpose for such actions.

AP6. Absenteeism from meeting for 6 consecutive times attract fine of N2, 000= (two

thousand naira only) or suspension from the Association, pending when the fine is paid, and they prove to be of good behavior.

AP7. Fine for late arrival to meeting will be decided by the members present in that

meeting.

AP8. If any business transaction or contract embarked upon by this Association fails because the treasurer becomes inefficient, he/she shall be made to refund the total gain expected to be realized from such business by the Association, be suspended for six months, be expelled from the Association. Or may attract all aforementioned penalties.

AP9. Noise making in the meeting attract fine of N200= 9 (two hundred naira only).

AP10. Phone ringing in the meeting is fined at 200= (two hundred naira only).

AP11. If members/executives are found to bandy words with each other in the meeting shall attract fine of N2, 000= (two thousand naira only). But if in a public place or when members or executives Insult themselves, they will pay fine equal as same as above.

AP12. Arresting your fellow member for any reason, without first reporting the matter to the house, attracts the fine of suspension or membership termination from the Association.

Chapter 8

33. Miscellaneous Provisions

Improved farming and supply of consumer goods

a. Members, in the General Meeting of this Association, shall decide what better methods of farming are to be adopted, after seeking the advice of the Officer of the Ministry of Agriculture. They shall also undertake simple increased cultivation wherever possible;

b. Member who fails to adopt any latest means of cultivation, approved by the General Meeting may be Penalized, or expelled from the Associations’ Farming Community.

c. The Association shall purchase for supply to members such equipment, seeds or other Agricultural supplies as are necessary for the development of members’ farms. Where the members are not in a position to pay cash for these supplies, the value of the materials may be treated as a loan under ACFA constitution.

d. The Association shall receive/stock on behalf of all co-operative Farmers in the state in order to distribute/sale to members/general public for domestic and personal use, fertilizer, seeds and any other kind of in-puts, or any financial assistance for all members of this Association. Including agricultural Grants.

e. The Association shall include food-stuffs or its like among such food supplies that may be supplied to members on credit. Member may not benefit from these incentives if the member is indebted to the Association.

34. Sureties

Surety shall be the person/group or organization who volunteer

himself to be held responsible if the person/group he is standing surety for, fails to pay back any assistance rendered to him. A surety must be a reputable member of the Association, but not an executive. He shall personally guarantee;

(i) Repayment of the loan if the borrower defaults;

(ii) The correctness of the particulars on which the value of the borrower’s securities are based;

(iii) That the loan is used for the purpose stated by the borrower in his

application. If misuse is noticed, the surety should report it to the executives, immediately.

(iv). All loans so approved shall be subject to the right of the Association.

And repayment can be called for, immediately misappropriation is noticed. Or in the case that the borrower gives an indication of resignation.

35. Books and Account Records

A. The books accounts registers and papers of this Association shall be open at all reasonable times for inspection by members of staff of any accredited Offices for the purpose. Provided that no other person, whether the Associations’ executive or members shall be allowed to see the personal account/record of any other member without that member’s consent. Copies of the Association constitution, the regulations and of the co-operative society Bye-Laws shall be available for inspection, at all reasonable hours, as these contain the registered address and other information’s of the Association.

B. Each member shall purchase from this Association a passbook showing particulars of his personal activities/account with the Association.

36. Informal books

The Secretary shall not keep any book that does not have a direct dealing with the affairs of the Association or its members except those officially recognized and prescribed.

37. Receipts

It shall be the duty of every member;

A. To insist upon obtaining from the Secretary a separate printed receipt from the proper receipt book, or such other forms of receipt as may be approved by the General Meeting, the Executives or the Trustees of this Association for every sum of money paid by him to the Association.

B. To sign, or make his thumb print in the proper book, in token of receipt when ever any sum of money is paid or repaid to him by the Association.

38. The Vision Bearer

That after carefully recognizing the effort and sacrifice Putin by a man who conceived this idea of amalgamating the co-operative farmers groups, and developed it to this logical maturity, we the members and executives of All Association Of Co-operative Farmers, Edo State (ACFA) has unanimously agreed to assign this position of the VIBLIP of this Association to Mr. Agbonlahor Osamuyimen. While the position of the SPELIP has been assigned to Mr. John Obasogie

39. Affiliation to Other National and International Bodies

Unless there are reasons to the contrary, the Association shall affiliate itself at the earliest possible moment to any National and International Credit Co-operative Association, Agricultural institutions, women affairs organizations and shall also serve and be represented as a humanitarian group.

40. Disputes

Any dispute arising in or concerning this Association and its members or past members shall be resolved in accordance to this constitution, principles from the Associations Code of Conduct/Duty Ethics, or may be referred to the office of the Commissioner for youth and Sport, Edo State for settlement by arbitration.

41. Certificate and seal

The Secretary shall hold in safe custody the certificate and seal of this ACFA on behalf of the trustees. The seal shall be of a pattern approved by the executives, AND APPROVED BY THE General Meeting. All legal documents of this Association must be sealed, or otherwise stamped before such documents can be considered valid for use by this Association. Document shall be sealed by at least two of the trustees one of whom shall be Secretary.

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