Fadina calls for a Transparent and Fair ATPN Electoral Process
One of the contestants for the
election of the Presidency of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), Prince Oluwafemi Fadina has alleged lack of transparency , undue favoritism and procedural fraud accompanying the on - going process
Addressing the press in Abuja ,Prince Fadina on behalf of him and other contestants said a fair process is a pivotal moment that demands the highest standards of transparency, fairness, and procedural integrity.
" However, recent developments raise serious concerns about insufficient preparedness, potential biases, and procedural flaws '
Prince Fadina ,CEO ,Jethro Tours and promoter of Awori Tourism highlighted his and others misgivings in the election process
Lack of Candidate Briefings: A Critical Oversight
It is troubling that candidates have not received adequate briefings from the AGM team. This omission represents a fundamental failure, as candidates deserve clear, thorough instructions on election procedures, rules, and expectations. The absence of these briefings undermines the credibility of the process and disadvantages candidates unfairly.
We call for an immediate, comprehensive briefing for all candidates to restore clarity and fairness to the electoral process.
2. Conflict of Interest: Candidates Operating from the Secretariat
Allowing a presidential candidate—or any candidate—to operate from the Association Secretariat during the election period is unacceptable. This situation creates a clear conflict of interest, compromises the Secretariat’s neutrality, and casts doubt on the election's impartiality.
To uphold fairness, we demand that all candidates vacate the Secretariat immediately, ensuring that it remains a neutral ground.
3. Chairman’s Conduct: Failing to Ensure a Free and Fair Election
The Chairman of the AGM has failed to foster an environment conducive to a free and fair election. The lack of a proper timetable, inadequate briefings, and rushed deadlines for delegate list submissions all indicate a poorly managed process. The Chairman’s role is to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability, yet the current approach falls far short.
We call for the immediate uprightness of the procedure to assure a level plain ground
4. Unreasonable Deadlines and Absence of Clear Guidelines
The directive from the Chairman to submit delegate lists within an unreasonably short timeframe is procedurally flawed. Effective electoral processes require ample time for scrutiny, verification, and transparency. Without a clear timetable and transparent guidelines, there is room for manipulation and bias.
We demand the following corrective actions be taken without delay:
Release of a Comprehensive Electoral Timetable: A detailed schedule outlining key activities—including candidate briefings, delegate verification, and voting procedures—must be published promptly.
Extension of Delegate Verification Deadline: The rushed deadline for delegate list submissions should be extended to allow thorough and transparent verification.
Implementation of Clear Electoral Guidelines: The AGM team must establish and communicate clear electoral bylaws to prevent ambiguity and bias.
Call on the Chairman for Impartial Oversight: Given the
5. Legal and Ethical Implications
The current election process violates fundamental principles of fairness, equity, and transparency. The actions and inactions of the AGM leadership expose the association to potential legal challenges and reputational damage.
We insist on a transparent and fair election. The ATPN must demonstrate integrity and accountability, setting an example for other professional associations.
We demand immediate action on the issues highlighted above. Members are closely watching, and this moment will be judged by the AGM team’s commitment to fairness and justice
