Welcome, Guest: Register On Nairaland / LOGIN! / Trending / Recent / New
Stats: 3,148,810 members, 7,802,596 topics. Date: Friday, 19 April 2024 at 04:59 PM

Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS - Politics (2) - Nairaland

Nairaland Forum / Nairaland / General / Politics / Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS (14845 Views)

FG To Probe Jim Obazee's Tenure As FRCN Boss / FG Suspends FRC Corporate Governance Code / Governance Code: Enelamah & Obazee Clash Over Adeboye, Others (2) (3) (4)

(1) (2) (3) (4) (Reply) (Go Down)

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by shammah1(m): 4:13pm On Jan 11, 2017
Hmm
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by OBAGADAFFI: 4:16pm On Jan 11, 2017
@op

You are partially wrong here.

A law cannot made without due consultation with the Parties/stakeholders involved.

And that was why CAN and co kicked against it from onset.

If i am sole sponsor of a my foundation.

if you remove me as the head of that foundation the funding automatically stops.

2 Likes

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by ZUBY77(m): 4:17pm On Jan 11, 2017
I will read this later, however anything that will make these GO rogues know that Church business is not family business is welcomed.

3 Likes

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by ShakaZullu(m): 4:18pm On Jan 11, 2017
legendte:
The unstable dude again.

Watch him come up with another topic to contradict himself.

I can summarise the dude in a sentence.
He is more like a light boat in a stormy ocean, always dancing to the tune of the wave. He likes to be seen as correct.
Just a populist for the wrong reason.
haba free my boy TonyeBarcanista a bit naaa

this thread is not a controversial thread just a bit educative cool

leave controversies for a controversial day smiley

happy new year bro cool

3 Likes

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by gerg: 4:23pm On Jan 11, 2017
Must this guy be controversial? Controlling religious organisations in this country that's religiously hit up is not right. This guy always support bad thing. I'm still waiting for the day you will create a thread on why the Fulani herdsmen are right to be killing Nigerians.
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by melejo(m): 4:26pm On Jan 11, 2017
TonyeBarcanista:

The position of GO is relative. As long as he is the Head of Management or Board, the law applies to him. Being a Spiritual head is not same as head of leadership, but most GOs are both spiritual and leadership/management heads.

They can keep their spiritual heads, but not management head. That's what the law says.

Beside, I thought the Head of the Church is Christ? Am I missing something?
LOL
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by melejo(m): 4:29pm On Jan 11, 2017
TonyeBarcanista:

The position of GO is relative. As long as he is the Head of Management or Board, the law applies to him. Being a Spiritual head is not same as head of leadership, but most GOs are both spiritual and leadership/management heads.

They can keep their spiritual heads, but not management head. That's what the law says.

Beside, I thought the Head of the Church is Christ? Am I missing something?
Your article makes sense at least within your level of biblical understanding but don't try to win all argument else you will flop as you're already doing. Back to the subject matter, go back and carefully study the last paragraph you posted. From the biblical perspective, you can't separate the bishop of the church from church administration. The head of the church is Jesus yes but he has apostles on earth. I've never seen or heard of a nation, not even the highly advanced nations we often copy from that has a low that goes as deep as detecting the tenureship of ecclesiastical authority. Do you know how they were appointed? If we believe the Holy Spirit appointment them then He alone determines how and when they leave. Don't bring Islam inside here because they have different modus operandi, if this law was meant to touch their way of doing things, eg changing the headship of the Muslim community from northerner to southerner, it will not work. Can you go to my village and change the headship of Amadioa whose tenure ends upon death? See, we know where the law is targeted at irrespective of who made it and I assure you it will not hold water
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by Themandator: 4:29pm On Jan 11, 2017
TonyeBarcanista:
By TonyeBarcanista

One thing about this country is that we are usually dishonest, emotional and sentimental with ourselves over issues that has to do with religion and the State. I shall speak on the controversy surrounding the former National Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Eunuch Adeboye, the Federal Reporting Council of Nigeria governing code for not-for-profit organisations, the suspension of the code, and the unfortunate sack of Dr. Jim Obazee.

1. The NGO Governance Code Has Court Legitimization:
The code was enacted in 2015 to regulate NGOs in the country, including Church and Mosques. I don't believe it was targeted at any individual, religion or sect.

During its enactment and hearing, a group of Pastors including those from Adeboye's RCCG and other Pentecostal Churches went to federal high court, Lagos to challenge the suit in July, 2015. on Wednesday, March 23, 2016, Honourable Justice Buba dismissed the suit and upheld that the plaintiffs had no locus standi to challenge the suit. The ruling thereafter gave the Council the legitimacy to implement the code.
http://www.barbaric.com.ng/frcn-enact-governance-codes-ngos/

2. On The Provisions Of The Code
I have heard people larment that the code was meant to stifle Christianity and the Church, but on scanning through the provisions of the code, I am yet to see where they get such Idea from.

Firstly, the code does not spare any organisation or sect that is registered as NGO. It does excused Islam/Mosque, neither does it specify a particular sect, religion or church. Even charity organisations are subject to the code as long as they are registered as NGO in Nigeria according to our laws.

Secondly, on the provision of the code, the code simply mandates Chief Executives, organisational heads, founders, General Overseer etc of NGOs to a specified term in office and not to create a sense of "ownership" of their organisations by them. It made it clear that relatives and spouses of organisation heads should not "inherit" the respective organisation under any guise. It allows for accountability to the organisation/members by the heads of the NGOs, as well as mandates financial accountability to the government.

What Is Wrong With The FRCN Good Governance Code For NGOs?
Why should a not-for-profit organisation head wish to "own" the organisation by staying in office without term limit? Why should there not be succession plan in Non-governmental organisation, including churches and mosques? Why should an NGO be inherited by spouse and relatives? What is wrong with Churches and Mosques being accountable to their members and donors, as well as to the government, paying taxes where applicable should they indulge in profit making activities? Is the Church the only group affected?

We are in a society where crises usually brew in churches after demise of founders and General Overseers simply because of lack of succession plan. We are in a society where religious bodies hide under the guise of "the Church" to engage in profit making ventures, yet refused to pay tax to the government like every for-profit organisation. We are in a society where NGO heads lavish organisational funds without accountability to anybody, yet these monies were donations, levies, offerings, tithes etc to the organisations for some purpose or the other. What is wrong with accountability to members and donors of organisation? Is this not a global practice? Will the Bill Gate Foundation donate money without asking for accountability?

What is wrong in clerics contributing to pension funds so as to ensure that their pension is protected by law after retirement? Won't this arrangement help junior pastors?

What exactly is wrong with the bill?

Why Redeemed Christian Church And Some Other Pentecostals?
Firstly, of all the NGOs that includes foundations, charities and Mosques, only Pastors from RCCG and some other Pentecostal Churches went to court to challenge the code. Is there something they are not telling the public? Fine, they exercised their right to challenge government policy, but judgement has been delivered, is it not appropriate to respect the decision and live with the regulation or approach a higher court to set aside the lower court's ruling? Why should Redeemed Church and some Pentecostal Christians see it as a personal battle?

With due respect to RCCG, the code was meant to apply not only to Pastor Adeboye or RCCG, but also to other religious organisations and their heads including Mosques. Making it appear like a personal war against the Redeemed Church or Christianity is improper and against the teachings of Apostle Peter in 1 Peter 2:13-17.

Christianity, The Church And Civil Authority:
1 Peter 2:13 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority,
1 Peter 2:14 or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right.
1 Peter 2:17 Honor all men; love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.

That was a clear instruction to Christians by Apostle Peter. Christians have no history of resisting civil laws/codes even at the point of death during the time of the Roman rule. That was what distinguished Christians from others.

This Code is in fact aimed at sanitizing the society against abuse by so-called religious leaders and bodies. The Church must be subject to the civil authority of the State as long as it doesn't conflict with the demand of God Almighty and His Christ. This is a fact we must get used to or go to court if unsatisfied.


The Sack Of Dr Obazee Is A Bad Omen
The sack of the erstwhile boss of the FRCN may elicit cheers from religious sentimental people, but it only shows that President Buhari is leading Nigeria via sentiment and not principle. Sacking a man for doing his job after obtaining a legal victory is unfortunate and uncalled for. Appointees of government must be allowed to do their jobs without fear or favor to any group, but President Buhari and his minister of trade and investment expected appointees to only do what they ask and not what is to be done. This is unfortunate and a bad omen to leadership. Why should a policy be suspended because of a particular religion/church? Isn't the law meant to be above every individual and group? This is sad!

In conclusion, we must be aware that in sane climes like Europe, USA, UK and South Africa, such institutions (Religious and other NGOs) are well regulated, especially with respect to their finances and management. RCCG and some other churches have their branches over there and they comply with their regulations. Why should they now have problem with ours? Churches, Mosques and other NGOs are not classified under sole-proprietorship, and as such can't be said to belong to any SINGLE individual irrespective of his status or perceived status. Hence, management and finances must be regulated to reflect that.

Finally, irrespective of my Christian faith, it is my belief that sanity must be brought in our society. If Jesus could pay his tax as a male adult (according to the law) and subject himself to civil law, why not his followers?


May God Bless Us All And Bless Nigeria
Happy Year 2017
www.nairaland.com/attachments/4720022_code3_jpeg6f5173fd1b894b6ab6561498111a224b
Shared on Palmchat



You miss the point of argument in the public domain which is that a tenure of office is not ordained by fiat for any body called to ministry ......
I was expecting to cite in your article examples of country with such regulations.
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by martineverest(m): 4:31pm On Jan 11, 2017
Wiseandtrue:
Get it right, Its a Non Governmental Organization (NGO) therefore government have no right to meddle in their affairs.
Government self wey dey meddle have they done their duty(ies)
How have they helped the masses they are leading abeg they should face governance and do it well.
They should lead an exemplary life undecided others will follow abi no be so
ur ignorance eludes me,despite reading the OP's post......even in US states,govt meddle into NGOs thru laws...i could also remember how russian xpelled and NGO for not following due process...arent these nations more civilised than ur bigoted nation?

2 Likes

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by Ecosystem4u: 4:33pm On Jan 11, 2017
legendte:
The unstable dude again.

Watch him come up with another topic to contradict himself.

I can summarise the dude in a sentence.
He is more like a light boat in a stormy ocean, always dancing to the tune of the wave. He likes to be seen as correct.
Just a populist for the wrong reason.

Dont mind the erratic mofo he wants to be seen as being wise.

1 Like

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by Themandator: 4:33pm On Jan 11, 2017
melejo:
Your article makes sense at least within your level of biblical understanding but don't try to win all argument else you will flop as you're already doing. Back to the subject matter, go back and carefully study the last paragraph you posted. From the biblical perspective, you can't separate the bishop of the church from church administration. The head of the church is Jesus yes but he has apostles on earth. I've never seen or heard of a nation, not even the highly advanced nations we often copy from that has a low that goes as deep as detecting the tenureship of ecclesiastical authority. Do you know how they were appointed? If we believe the Holy Spirit appointment them then He alone determines how and when they leave. Don't bring Islam inside here because they have different modus operandi, if this law was meant to touch their way of doing things, eg changing the headship of the Muslim community from northerner to southerner, it will not work. Can you go to my village and change the headship of Amadioa whose tenure ends upon death? See, we know where the law is targeted at irrespective of who made it and I assure you it will not hold water



The law is injurious to the society in the long run.......it is a disincentive to philanthropy as some who run such foundations as head would rather close them than hand them over to some other....it is unscriptural even to the Muslim nation...the sultan is the head of the Muslim community in Nigeria and if we go by the law , he will one day be asked to step down as the head of the supreme council for Islamic affairs
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by Butteredpako: 4:35pm On Jan 11, 2017
AZeD1:


True it's the 2nd.
The first being not believing in Biafra and the by force joining of Delta state into their proposed country.
Lol,
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by Nobody: 4:36pm On Jan 11, 2017
If Jesus could pay his tax as a male adult (according to the law) and subject himself to civil law, why not his followers

Because Jesus is the son of God and his followers in Nigeria aka Men of God are 'gods'
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by wolfash: 4:37pm On Jan 11, 2017
@OP
Thanks for the eye opener.
I agree with some of what you wrote.
But with all due respect and information available to me, I am yet to come across any official statement where RCCG spoken against the government, I know a lot of Christians who attends pentecostal churches who are angry with the government before now used the medium to accuse the government of bias and trying to break the bones of Christianity in the country.
And let's not forget this is Nigeria, not USA, we are sensitive when it comes to religion, because we are still working on our coalition and unlike most countries, we have almost equal number of Christians and Muslims in Nigeria, which gives room always for suspicion and sensitivity.

Lastly, I don't know if you are a Christian and if you are whether your own denomination uses the same organisational structure as RCCG and most pentecostal churches (meaning you could be catholic, Anglican, etc), but which ever, I will like to say you can't separate spirituality from the governance of church, if start saying GOs have a specific number of years they must use, then you are saying God doesn't have a say in when a Christian leader should hand over like we saw severally in the bible, citing Moses, Elijah, etc as example.

Thanks
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by Nobody: 4:37pm On Jan 11, 2017
This is a fight against christianity - Shallow Minds & Dumb Head Christians Council of EEEdiots
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by melejo(m): 4:40pm On Jan 11, 2017
Themandator:




The law is injurious to the society in the long run.......it is a disincentive to philanthropy as some who run such foundations as head would rather close them than hand them over to some other....it is unscriptural even to the Muslim nation...the sultan is the head of the Muslim community in Nigeria and if we go by the law , he will one day be asked to step down as the head of the supreme council for Islamic affairs
And I asure you that will not happened, instead of them to detect the tenure ship of the sultan Nigerian will scatter
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by menxer: 4:41pm On Jan 11, 2017
Well said.

I was pissed by the sentiments people are attaching to this issue without a good understanding of what the FRCN codes really mean.

The deception in religious organizations will be open for all to see: it has always been about the money.

3 Likes

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by 123ABCXYZ(m): 4:42pm On Jan 11, 2017
I dont think d pressure was from d spiritual leaders or NGOs alone. Stakeholders in the private and public sectors also have problems with some of the requirements of d code as they were overly strict. Obazee has his own issues... and is never loved even among professionals. He acts and behaves like a god. i feel his removal is long overdue. No matter how good ur intentions are or how powerful u are, u must always thread with caution. Never ignore pressure groups and stakeholders even if wat dey want does not make sense.

Obazee is known for always bulying his way through... and dis has affected d way the FRC operates. Ask any CFO; dem go tell u... they are all celebrating.
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by Nobody: 4:44pm On Jan 11, 2017
Wiseandtrue:
Get it right, Its a Non Governmental Organization (NGO) therefore government have no right to meddle in their affairs.
Government self wey dey meddle have they done their duty(ies)
How have they helped the masses they are leading abeg they should face governance and do it well.
They should lead an exemplary life undecided others will follow abi no be so
Remember, NGOs is not our mother tongue, those countries that thought us about NGOs police theirs very closely, Nigeria should not be different and don't forget that the fact that they are taking peoples contribution makes them accountable to government.

2 Likes

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by Pebcak: 4:46pm On Jan 11, 2017
TonyeBarcanista:
By TonyeBarcanista

One thing about this country is that we are usually dishonest, emotional and sentimental with ourselves over issues that has to do with religion and the State. I shall speak on the controversy surrounding the former National Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Eunuch Adeboye, the Federal Reporting Council of Nigeria governing code for not-for-profit organisations, the suspension of the code, and the unfortunate sack of Dr. Jim Obazee.

1. The NGO Governance Code Has Court Legitimization:
The code was enacted in 2015 to regulate NGOs in the country, including Church and Mosques. I don't believe it was targeted at any individual, religion or sect.

During its enactment and hearing, a group of Pastors including those from Adeboye's RCCG and other Pentecostal Churches went to federal high court, Lagos to challenge the suit in July, 2015. on Wednesday, March 23, 2016, Honourable Justice Buba dismissed the suit and upheld that the plaintiffs had no locus standi to challenge the suit. The ruling thereafter gave the Council the legitimacy to implement the code.
http://www.barbaric.com.ng/frcn-enact-governance-codes-ngos/

2. On The Provisions Of The Code
I have heard people larment that the code was meant to stifle Christianity and the Church, but on scanning through the provisions of the code, I am yet to see where they get such Idea from.

Firstly, the code does not spare any organisation or sect that is registered as NGO. It does excused Islam/Mosque, neither does it specify a particular sect, religion or church. Even charity organisations are subject to the code as long as they are registered as NGO in Nigeria according to our laws.

Secondly, on the provision of the code, the code simply mandates Chief Executives, organisational heads, founders, General Overseer etc of NGOs to a specified term in office and not to create a sense of "ownership" of their organisations by them. It made it clear that relatives and spouses of organisation heads should not "inherit" the respective organisation under any guise. It allows for accountability to the organisation/members by the heads of the NGOs, as well as mandates financial accountability to the government.

What Is Wrong With The FRCN Good Governance Code For NGOs?
Why should a not-for-profit organisation head wish to "own" the organisation by staying in office without term limit? Why should there not be succession plan in Non-governmental organisation, including churches and mosques? Why should an NGO be inherited by spouse and relatives? What is wrong with Churches and Mosques being accountable to their members and donors, as well as to the government, paying taxes where applicable should they indulge in profit making activities? Is the Church the only group affected?

We are in a society where crises usually brew in churches after demise of founders and General Overseers simply because of lack of succession plan. We are in a society where religious bodies hide under the guise of "the Church" to engage in profit making ventures, yet refused to pay tax to the government like every for-profit organisation. We are in a society where NGO heads lavish organisational funds without accountability to anybody, yet these monies were donations, levies, offerings, tithes etc to the organisations for some purpose or the other. What is wrong with accountability to members and donors of organisation? Is this not a global practice? Will the Bill Gate Foundation donate money without asking for accountability?

What is wrong in clerics contributing to pension funds so as to ensure that their pension is protected by law after retirement? Won't this arrangement help junior pastors?

What exactly is wrong with the bill?

Why Redeemed Christian Church And Some Other Pentecostals?
Firstly, of all the NGOs that includes foundations, charities and Mosques, only Pastors from RCCG and some other Pentecostal Churches went to court to challenge the code. Is there something they are not telling the public? Fine, they exercised their right to challenge government policy, but judgement has been delivered, is it not appropriate to respect the decision and live with the regulation or approach a higher court to set aside the lower court's ruling? Why should Redeemed Church and some Pentecostal Christians see it as a personal battle?

With due respect to RCCG, the code was meant to apply not only to Pastor Adeboye or RCCG, but also to other religious organisations and their heads including Mosques. Making it appear like a personal war against the Redeemed Church or Christianity is improper and against the teachings of Apostle Peter in 1 Peter 2:13-17.

Christianity, The Church And Civil Authority:
1 Peter 2:13 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority,
1 Peter 2:14 or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right.
1 Peter 2:17 Honor all men; love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.

That was a clear instruction to Christians by Apostle Peter. Christians have no history of resisting civil laws/codes even at the point of death during the time of the Roman rule. That was what distinguished Christians from others.

This Code is in fact aimed at sanitizing the society against abuse by so-called religious leaders and bodies. The Church must be subject to the civil authority of the State as long as it doesn't conflict with the demand of God Almighty and His Christ. This is a fact we must get used to or go to court if unsatisfied.


The Sack Of Dr Obazee Is A Bad Omen
The sack of the erstwhile boss of the FRCN may elicit cheers from religious sentimental people, but it only shows that President Buhari is leading Nigeria via sentiment and not principle. Sacking a man for doing his job after obtaining a legal victory is unfortunate and uncalled for. Appointees of government must be allowed to do their jobs without fear or favor to any group, but President Buhari and his minister of trade and investment expected appointees to only do what they ask and not what is to be done. This is unfortunate and a bad omen to leadership. Why should a policy be suspended because of a particular religion/church? Isn't the law meant to be above every individual and group? This is sad!

In conclusion, we must be aware that in sane climes like Europe, USA, UK and South Africa, such institutions (Religious and other NGOs) are well regulated, especially with respect to their finances and management. RCCG and some other churches have their branches over there and they comply with their regulations. Why should they now have problem with ours? Churches, Mosques and other NGOs are not classified under sole-proprietorship, and as such can't be said to belong to any SINGLE individual irrespective of his status or perceived status. Hence, management and finances must be regulated to reflect that.

Finally, irrespective of my Christian faith, it is my belief that sanity must be brought in our society. If Jesus could pay his tax as a male adult (according to the law) and subject himself to civil law, why not his followers?


May God Bless Us All And Bless Nigeria
Happy Year 2017
www.nairaland.com/attachments/4720022_code3_jpeg6f5173fd1b894b6ab6561498111a224b
Shared on Palmchat

Nice and educative write up i owe you 10 bottled of big stout with all you can eat asun grin

2 Likes

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by Segadem(m): 4:46pm On Jan 11, 2017
martineverest:
number 1 reason is the most powerful reason.....all govts of every countries of the world regulates NGOs.

Idahosa's church became his family's business.,..his wife,children are all pastors of the church
[b] yeah, this is what I can go against if you turn church leadership to family affair without consulting God for the next leader after the demise of the leader,
...but if the leader is chosen by God like the case of RCCG abd the government want to change what God has ordained then that government is heading towards doom

...and I always have respect for article of barcanister but I can't believe that Tonye was blaming PMB for terminating the appointment of FRC's boss, abi are u telling the world that u haven't read a part of the story where he was(FRC's boss) directed to suspend the enforcement of the law for the main time, but the man refused bluntly, how can u go against the way of your employer especially the directives of your president

Sir, u will be the first to write an epistle if the PMB has turn the deaf ear to the situation, as some people are saying that he wants to islamize Nigeria before the decision was reversed


who can please the world?
[/b]
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by menxer: 4:52pm On Jan 11, 2017
OBAGADAFFI:
@op

You are partially wrong here.

A law cannot made without due consultation with the Parties/stakeholders involved.

And that was why CAN and co kicked against it from onset.

If i am sole sponsor of a my foundation.

if you remove me as the head of that foundation the funding automatically stops.


There were consultations, recommendations and some things fine tuned before the implementation.

@bolded, What exactly did they kick against?
That they were not consulted?
If yes, then the court case should have been after the implementation of the code not before.

If CAN was not consulted which group then was?

3 Likes

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by donnie(m): 4:52pm On Jan 11, 2017
TonyeBarcanista:
By TonyeBarcanista

One thing about this country is that we are usually dishonest, emotional and sentimental with ourselves over issues that has to do with religion and the State. I shall speak on the controversy surrounding the former National Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Eunuch Adeboye, the Federal Reporting Council of Nigeria governing code for not-for-profit organisations, the suspension of the code, and the unfortunate sack of Dr. Jim Obazee.

1. The NGO Governance Code Has Court Legitimization:
The code was enacted in 2015 to regulate NGOs in the country, including Church and Mosques. I don't believe it was targeted at any individual, religion or sect.

During its enactment and hearing, a group of Pastors including those from Adeboye's RCCG and other Pentecostal Churches went to federal high court, Lagos to challenge the suit in July, 2015. on Wednesday, March 23, 2016, Honourable Justice Buba dismissed the suit and upheld that the plaintiffs had no locus standi to challenge the suit. The ruling thereafter gave the Council the legitimacy to implement the code.
http://www.barbaric.com.ng/frcn-enact-governance-codes-ngos/

2. On The Provisions Of The Code
I have heard people larment that the code was meant to stifle Christianity and the Church, but on scanning through the provisions of the code, I am yet to see where they get such Idea from.

Firstly, the code does not spare any organisation or sect that is registered as NGO. It does excused Islam/Mosque, neither does it specify a particular sect, religion or church. Even charity organisations are subject to the code as long as they are registered as NGO in Nigeria according to our laws.

Secondly, on the provision of the code, the code simply mandates Chief Executives, organisational heads, founders, General Overseer etc of NGOs to a specified term in office and not to create a sense of "ownership" of their organisations by them. It made it clear that relatives and spouses of organisation heads should not "inherit" the respective organisation under any guise. It allows for accountability to the organisation/members by the heads of the NGOs, as well as mandates financial accountability to the government.

What Is Wrong With The FRCN Good Governance Code For NGOs?
Why should a not-for-profit organisation head wish to "own" the organisation by staying in office without term limit? Why should there not be succession plan in Non-governmental organisation, including churches and mosques? Why should an NGO be inherited by spouse and relatives? What is wrong with Churches and Mosques being accountable to their members and donors, as well as to the government, paying taxes where applicable should they indulge in profit making activities? Is the Church the only group affected?

We are in a society where crises usually brew in churches after demise of founders and General Overseers simply because of lack of succession plan. We are in a society where religious bodies hide under the guise of "the Church" to engage in profit making ventures, yet refused to pay tax to the government like every for-profit organisation. We are in a society where NGO heads lavish organisational funds without accountability to anybody, yet these monies were donations, levies, offerings, tithes etc to the organisations for some purpose or the other. What is wrong with accountability to members and donors of organisation? Is this not a global practice? Will the Bill Gate Foundation donate money without asking for accountability?

What is wrong in clerics contributing to pension funds so as to ensure that their pension is protected by law after retirement? Won't this arrangement help junior pastors?

What exactly is wrong with the bill?

Why Redeemed Christian Church And Some Other Pentecostals?
Firstly, of all the NGOs that includes foundations, charities and Mosques, only Pastors from RCCG and some other Pentecostal Churches went to court to challenge the code. Is there something they are not telling the public? Fine, they exercised their right to challenge government policy, but judgement has been delivered, is it not appropriate to respect the decision and live with the regulation or approach a higher court to set aside the lower court's ruling? Why should Redeemed Church and some Pentecostal Christians see it as a personal battle?

With due respect to RCCG, the code was meant to apply not only to Pastor Adeboye or RCCG, but also to other religious organisations and their heads including Mosques. Making it appear like a personal war against the Redeemed Church or Christianity is improper and against the teachings of Apostle Peter in 1 Peter 2:13-17.

Christianity, The Church And Civil Authority:
1 Peter 2:13 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority,
1 Peter 2:14 or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right.
1 Peter 2:17 Honor all men; love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.

That was a clear instruction to Christians by Apostle Peter. Christians have no history of resisting civil laws/codes even at the point of death during the time of the Roman rule. That was what distinguished Christians from others.

This Code is in fact aimed at sanitizing the society against abuse by so-called religious leaders and bodies. The Church must be subject to the civil authority of the State as long as it doesn't conflict with the demand of God Almighty and His Christ. This is a fact we must get used to or go to court if unsatisfied.


The Sack Of Dr Obazee Is A Bad Omen
The sack of the erstwhile boss of the FRCN may elicit cheers from religious sentimental people, but it only shows that President Buhari is leading Nigeria via sentiment and not principle. Sacking a man for doing his job after obtaining a legal victory is unfortunate and uncalled for. Appointees of government must be allowed to do their jobs without fear or favor to any group, but President Buhari and his minister of trade and investment expected appointees to only do what they ask and not what is to be done. This is unfortunate and a bad omen to leadership. Why should a policy be suspended because of a particular religion/church? Isn't the law meant to be above every individual and group? This is sad!

In conclusion, we must be aware that in sane climes like Europe, USA, UK and South Africa, such institutions (Religious and other NGOs) are well regulated, especially with respect to their finances and management. RCCG and some other churches have their branches over there and they comply with their regulations. Why should they now have problem with ours? Churches, Mosques and other NGOs are not classified under sole-proprietorship, and as such can't be said to belong to any SINGLE individual irrespective of his status or perceived status. Hence, management and finances must be regulated to reflect that.

Finally, irrespective of my Christian faith, it is my belief that sanity must be brought in our society. If Jesus could pay his tax as a male adult (according to the law) and subject himself to civil law, why not his followers?


May God Bless Us All And Bless Nigeria
Happy Year 2017
www.nairaland.com/attachments/4720022_code3_jpeg6f5173fd1b894b6ab6561498111a224b
Shared on Palmchat

Mtcheeeeeeew.....
Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by menxer: 4:56pm On Jan 11, 2017
Wiseandtrue:
Get it right, Its a Non Governmental Organization (NGO) therefore government have no right to meddle in their affairs.
Government self wey dey meddle have they done their duty(ies)
How have they helped the masses they are leading abeg they should face governance and do it well.
They should lead an exemplary life undecided others will follow abi no be so

What an NGO mean is not-for-profit organization, and must be registered with government.

If the government registers your NGO, who sets the terms and conditions for registration, you or government?

2 Likes 1 Share

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by Nobody: 4:57pm On Jan 11, 2017
Atheist are gonna masturbate on this thread, I hope y'all clamoring for this law will not start talking form both sides of your mouth when a Muslim cleric is also asked to step down, cos we know how things work in this country

1 Like 1 Share

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by menxer: 5:00pm On Jan 11, 2017
2dugged:
Atheist are gonna masturbate on this thread, I hope y'all clamoring for this law will not start talking form both sides of your mouth when a Muslim cleric is also asked to step down, cos we know how things work in this country

Your comment presupposes Muslims are atheists or atheists are Muslims.

1 Like

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by grandstar(m): 5:09pm On Jan 11, 2017
These churches seem not only above the law, they are untouchable.

For years now, no government has dared touched Redemption Camp over the horrid traffic jams they put motorists through during their holy ghost program.

Well, the sack of Obazee simply illustrates my point.

3 Likes

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by Nobody: 5:09pm On Jan 11, 2017
TonyeBarcanista:
Nice to see you in the New Year, Happy New Year to you.


I await your modified comment

Let me address your initial post here. I completely agree with you that non profits should be regulated and I agree with you that churches are not specifically targeted. Neither are the thousands of private trusts and foundations managed directly by families under wills, Deed of gifts or settlement.

This is the problem.

The Code is part of the dysfunction of Nigerian government similar to a civil defence official arresting you for not having a fire extinguisher in your car. It is an abuse of office and of the law and sound societies are not built this way.

1. The NFP code is not promulgated law. It did not pass through NASS neither did it require or receive the assent of either GEJ or PMB. It is a guidance code without any sanction for breach whatsover. And why would this be? Perhaps because it contains no sanctions or enforcement power. Let us go to point 2.

2. The FRCN is NOT the body tasked with supervising NFP management structures or governance. This is admitted by the FRCN in clause 35 of the code. It only has remit for financial statements. The body tasked with Managing companies AND NPF's is the corporate affairs commission, the Federal Inland Revenue ( FIRS). The latter issues them with Tax Exemption Certificates while the former supervises and investigates their operations under pursuant to sections 315(2) and 606 of the CAMA where the interest of the public so demands.

3. The code published by FRCN ( being at best subordinate orders or guidance/practice notes has attempted to amend two pieces of superior Federal legislation by fiat. Namely the CAMA and the Trustee Investments Act without legislative approval and without reconciling conflicting clauses Without first amending these two pieces of legislation through the NASS the FRCN code is void to the extent of such inconsistency.

We need to avoid getting trapped in the matrix here. Many people including myself feel upset with the way many religious bodies comport themselves. Anti church sentiment is high because of the opaque way many of them manage money and especially their failure to translate this into better lives for the poor in society. Many others see this as an opportunity to score political points - blaming GEJ or PMB. This is also part of the cleverly constructed Nigerian matrix that gets people to waste their energies and focus. What is really important is that things be done legally - this is the foundation of a just society

The FRCN over reached its powers and created a potential legal traffic jam. Happily it has been resolved for now. May I also point out that many private Foundations and Family Trusts would have been affected with the loss of international donor support and the inability of Trustees to provide for beneficiaries ( many of them aged people and under aged children)

I have enjoyed reading many of your posts and I like the way you try to isolate key points for the reader. I wish you a prosperous and fulfilled new year.

6 Likes 4 Shares

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by Nobody: 5:09pm On Jan 11, 2017
menxer:


Your comment presupposes Muslims are atheists or atheists are Muslims.
nope, Christians seems to be the main target and atheist seem to find it easier to pick on Christians cos they know their fate should they use the same momentum to attack Muslims, that is my point

1 Like 1 Share

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by emmanuelewumi(m): 5:09pm On Jan 11, 2017
TonyeBarcanista:

The position of GO is relative. As long as he is the Head of Management or Board, the law applies to him. Being a Spiritual head is not same as head of leadership, but most GOs are both spiritual and leadership/management heads.

They can keep their spiritual heads, but not management head. That's what the law says.

Beside, I thought the Head of the Church is Christ? Am I missing something?
Anglican Communion in Nigeria have their in-house corporate governance code.

A Primate /Archbishop or Bishops of various dioceses in the country can only act in the capacities for a maximum of 10 years and MUST retire at the age of 70.

2 Likes

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by kjhova(m): 5:10pm On Jan 11, 2017
2dugged:
Atheist are gonna masturbate on this thread, I hope y'all clamoring for this law will not start talking form both sides of your mouth when a Muslim cleric is also asked to step down, cos we know how things work in this country

I am not so sure that you expressed your thoughts as intended cause you seem to align atheists and muslims as one.

I am an atheist and I see no reason to masturbate on this matter. The reason is that I am liberal and not a militant with hatred for religion. An atheist ought to be interested in this topic only for the legal, political and moral lessons and the implications of the outcome for Nigeria's polity. That a daddy G.O. gets knocked off his perch or not is my least desire.

1 Like 1 Share

Re: Why I Support FRCN's Governance Code For NGOS by Firefire(m): 5:15pm On Jan 11, 2017
The code is irrelevant. finito!

(1) (2) (3) (4) (Reply)

President Buhari, Minister Of Power, Imo State Governor Meets In Asorock / No/limited Cash Will Cause Low Voters Turnout / Judge Orders Transfer Of $9.8m Seized From Andrew Yakubu To The Court's Account

(Go Up)

Sections: politics (1) business autos (1) jobs (1) career education (1) romance computers phones travel sports fashion health
religion celebs tv-movies music-radio literature webmasters programming techmarket

Links: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10)

Nairaland - Copyright © 2005 - 2024 Oluwaseun Osewa. All rights reserved. See How To Advertise. 124
Disclaimer: Every Nairaland member is solely responsible for anything that he/she posts or uploads on Nairaland.