The Gombe Network of Civil Society Organisations (GNCSOs), a coalition dedicated to the development of Gombe State, has rescheduled its general executive elections. Originally slated for December 21, 2024, the elections have been postponed to January 9, 2025. This decision, driven by the principles of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, aims to address internal debates regarding the transition from an interim leadership to a formally elected executive committee.
The GNCSOs has operated under an interim caretaker committee for the past six months. While the initial intention was to hold elections for a new executive committee to serve a four-year term, a significant portion of the membership expressed a preference for the current interim leadership to continue, citing the nascent stage of the organization. This proposal, however, clashed with the organization’s constitution, which stipulates a maximum six-month tenure for interim administrations.
To reconcile these conflicting viewpoints and ensure a smooth transition, a compromise was reached. The 17 members present at the decision-making meeting unanimously agreed to extend the interim committee’s tenure, providing a two-week window from December 21, 2024, to January 9, 2025, for members of the interim committee to formally register their candidacies by completing the necessary forms and paying the required fees. This process effectively transforms the interim committee into the official executive committee, subject to member approval on January 9, 2025.
This carefully orchestrated transition aims to address concerns about adherence to the organization’s constitution while respecting the desire of a significant portion of the membership to maintain the current leadership. The decision underscores the GNCSOs’ commitment to a transparent and inclusive process, ensuring all members have an opportunity to voice their opinions and contribute to the organization’s future. The two-week window allows for any objections or alternative candidacies to be presented, further solidifying the democratic principles guiding the organization’s governance.
A key driver behind this decision is the perceived need for continuity and stability, particularly given the organization’s early developmental stage. Many members believe that the current leadership, particularly Chairman Yusuf Ibrahim, possesses the necessary experience and vision to guide the GNCSOs through its formative period. Despite reported reluctance from Ibrahim to continue in the role, there is considerable pressure from other members urging him to make this sacrifice for the greater good of the organization. This sentiment reflects a shared belief that maintaining the existing leadership will allow for consistent progress and establish a solid foundation for future growth.
The postponement of the elections and the subsequent process for formalizing the interim committee as the executive committee highlights the GNCSOs’ dedication to balancing constitutional requirements with the practical needs of a young organization. By prioritizing inclusivity and transparency, the GNCSOs aims to foster a sense of unity and shared purpose among its members. The two-week period leading up to the January 9 affirmation serves as a crucial opportunity for open dialogue, ensuring a smooth and democratic transition of leadership, ultimately strengthening the organization’s foundation as it works towards its developmental goals in Gombe State. Furthermore, the decision to encourage the current leadership to continue reflects a recognition of their contributions and the value of their experience in navigating the challenges faced by a newly formed organization.
