The Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) has suspended its National Treasurer, Baba "JFO" Ojonugwa, and 8 other members over an alleged WhatsApp group call. This decision was made after the National Disciplinary Committee (NDC) submitted its final report to the National Executive Council (NEC). The NEC adopted the report at its meeting on 17 May. They didn't reveal the issues discussed by the suspended individuals during the WhatsApp group call.

The association made this decision following disciplinary proceedings initiated against JFO and others over issues linked to the call held on 25 December 2025. The NEC found their actions inconsistent with the association’s constitutional discipline, order, and institutional integrity. They're subject to the provisions of the association’s constitution. The suspension is for 12 months.

Others suspended alongside JFO are Abdulsalami "Triple A" Abdulhakeem, Olumide Aduloju, Joshua Offiong, Njiribeako Alexander, Oliver "Don Oliver" Omaniode, Williams "Ejekajo" Eje, Eric "Ricky" Kussiy, and Sydney "Sydney Sparrow" Asowari. They were suspended for 12 months. The association’s Acting General Secretary, Elizabeth Gabriel, stated that the NEC decided to suspend the individuals to ensure stability. They want to restore constitutional order and protect the interests of PMAN members across the country.

The association’s Acting General Secretary, Elizabeth Gabriel, said the NEC decided to suspend the individuals. They didn't want to compromise the stability of the association. They also want to protect the interests of PMAN members.

"To ensure stability, restore constitutional order and protect the interests of PMAN members across the country, it was resolved that affected chapters shall, where necessary, be placed under interim administrative arrangements, while elections in affected chapters shall be conducted within the constitutionally guided period as may be directed by NEC."

Before the suspension, the nine individuals were referred to the NDC for investigation and appropriate recommendations regarding the issues. The NDC issued formal invitation letters to the affected persons. They followed up with reminders, but they didn't appear. The Committee reported that the affected persons were duly notified. They were afforded an opportunity to appear, respond, and defend themselves, but they didn't.

They failed, neglected, or refused to participate in the proceedings despite the additional opportunity granted in the interest of fair hearing.

The NEC adopted the NDC’s findings and recommendations. They directed that the individuals be subjected to the appropriate constitutional disciplinary measures. Ms Gabriel disclosed that the association appointed Uche James as acting treasurer in the absence of JFO. The appointment will remain in effect pending the conclusion of further investigations. The NEC recognised Mr James as a seasoned accountant and a committed unionist.

The NEC noted that his experience, discipline, and deep institutional knowledge were expected to reinforce financial management. They'll improve accountability and transparency within the association during this crucial period. Mr James won't have an easy task, but he's well-equipped to handle it. The association's NEC praised the NDC for the maturity, diligence, and fairness it demonstrated in carrying out its responsibilities.

The NEC reassured PMAN’s commitment to constitutional governance, internal discipline, due process, institutional stability, and protection of the union from acts capable of dragging it back into disorder. PMAN President, Pretty Okafor, responded to the decision. Mr Okafor reiterated that the association would continue to welcome dissent, criticism, and internal engagement, provided they remain within the limits of its constitution. He won't tolerate any actions that compromise the association's stability.

"Members, state chapters, partners and stakeholders are, therefore, advised to take notice of the decisions of NEC and continue to relate with the lawful organs of PMAN accordingly." They shouldn't ignore this advice, as it's crucial for the association's stability.

As of press time, none of the nine individuals had commented on their suspension. This newspaper checked JFO’s social media pages and found that he hadn't made any statement regarding the suspension. They don't know what he's planning to do next. The suspension of the National Treasurer and 8 other members is a significant development. It's significant because it shows that PMAN won't tolerate any actions that compromise its stability.

PMAN remains focused on rebuilding the union, protecting musicians, expanding opportunities for members, strengthening institutional structures, and positioning Nigerian music for greater national and international impact. They're committed to achieving these goals.

  • The suspension is for 12 months, subject to the provisions of the association’s constitution.
  • Nine individuals were suspended, including Baba "JFO" Ojonugwa, Abdulsalami "Triple A" Abdulhakeem, Olumide Aduloju, Joshua Offiong, Njiribeako Alexander, Oliver "Don Oliver" Omaniode, Williams "Ejekajo" Eje, Eric "Ricky" Kussiy, and Sydney "Sydney Sparrow" Asowari.
  • Uche James was appointed as acting treasurer in the absence of JFO.
  • The NEC praised the NDC for the maturity, diligence, and fairness it demonstrated in carrying out its responsibilities.