Be it enacted by the catholic youth organization of Nigeria Constitution and that of any member, station, zone, groups or

(C.Y.O.N) Diocese of Port Harcourt and by the authority of the committees, the provisions of this constitution shall prevail.
Catholic Bishop of Port Harcourt as follows: 1.3 Where there is a conflict between the provisions of this
We the entire members of the Catholic Youths Organization of
constitution and any one of the deanery or Diocese, the
Nigeria. St. Christopher Catholic Church Port Harcourt, having
firmly solemnly resolved; To come together in love, unity and provisions of either the Deanery or Diocese shall prevail in
harmony as one indivisible and indissoluble organization under hierarchical order.
the one, Holy, Apostolic and Catholic Church, dedicated to the 1.4 The parish executive council shall make polices, rules and
promotion and consolidation of the teachings, doctrines and regulations on areas of interest (s) not already or partially
practice of the Catholic Church. covered by this constitution.
1.5 This constitution shall not come to pass except as
And to provide a constitution for the purpose of promoting good
promulgated.
governance and welfare of persons in the organization on the
principles of freedom, equality and justice, and for the purpose of SECTION TWO
consolidating the unity of members to promote Catholic doctrine SUB-SECTION A
and practice in the parish, Deanery, Diocesan, provincial and 2.1 NAME
National solidarity, with peace, co-operation and understanding. 2.1.1 The organization shall be known and addressed as
Do hereby make, enact and do give to ourselves the following Catholic Youths Organization of Nigeria, (CYON) St. Christopher
constitution. Catholic Church, Rumuokwurusi Deanery, Port Harcourt.
SECTION ONE 2.2.1 MOTTO: The motto of the organization shall be ; ‘’let
1.1 SUPREMACY OF THE CONSTITUTION your light shine’’ (Mathew 5:16)
1.1 Without prejudice to the canon law, the Parish Law and
2.2.3 DRESS CODE: The dress code of the organization shall be
constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria or any law for
the time being in force in Rivers State the provisions of this white upon black, symbolizing purity and hardwork.
constitution shall take precedence over and above any 2.2.4 MODE OF SALUTION: The mode of salutation shall be
other rule (s) of the Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria. “For God and for Youths” and response shall be “Through
St. Peter Claver Parish Port Harcourt and its constituent Christ”
part. SUB-SECTION B:
1.2 This constitution is superior to the constitutions/Bye laws 2.3 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
of member, Catholic communities, stations, Zones, groups 2.3. To enhance the spiritual development of the youths,
and committees and shall be binding on all individual through co-operation and personal prayers. Bible, Catechism
members of CYON. and spiritual readings, and active participation in the
missionary life of the mother Church.

2 3
2.4. To co-ordinate the activities of the Catholic youths in the (iv) If baptized but not a communicant the probation period
parish so that they may become more active, better and God- (Class) may be extended pending when the first reception of the
fearing Christians. holy communion takes place.
2.5. To undertake religious activities, social, educational and
others that will help members to actualize their divine calls. 3.1.4 The secretary in conjunction with the pastoral shall
2.6. To Promote and encourage individual and group works of recommend, successful candidates for the registration with the
charity, and good moral. following.
2.7. To promote brotherly love and mutual co-operation (1) Membership card ₦200.00
among members. (2) A copy of constitution at a minimal charge
2.8. To produce disciplined leaders who will lead in the spirit of (3) Monthly dues ₦200
Christ in and outside the church. (4)Registration ₦200
2.9. To liaise with other Christian organizations whose aims (5) Presentation of baptismal card
and objectives are same as listed herein.
SECTION THREE 3.1.5 Each member shall belong to at least one of the following
SUB-SECTION A groups in the organization(1) and band/technical (ii) Cultural
3.1 MEMBERSHIP (iii) Drama (iv)Sport.
3.1.1 Membership of the Organization shall be open to all
young card carrying members of the parish, who are willing to 3.1.6 Each member shall attend at least 50% of all the
abide by the laid down rules and regulations guiding the organization’s programs annually (i.e general meetings, prayer
organization. meetings vigils, group meetings and SAC meetings) unless
3.1.2 Interest persons shall attain a minimum age of 14 years. he/she is reported sick or has obtained permission for absence
for period of one year.
No upper age limit is fixed (to allow for active participation by
any youthful and dynamic minded catholic) SUB-SECTION B
3.1.3 Such interested person(s) shall be required to observe a 3.2 LOSS OF MEMBERSHIP
three-month probation period during which he/she shall (i) 3.2.1 A member shall be deemed to have lost his/her
attend all the organizations’ activities and (ii) new comers class, membership when; (i) he/she fails to attain 50% participation of
organized by the pastoral committee, if joining the organization the overall activities of the organization for one year, (ii) when
he/she fails to pay his/her monthly dues for one year.
for the first time, if not there must be an identification to prove
that one was once a member of CYON. (iii) Must be a baptized 3..7. The Secretary shall inform the affected member (s) in
catholic and a communicant writing three months to end of the safe period. If the secretary is
guilty of such, assistant or any other executive members may
carry out such function.
4 3.8. Re-admission should follow the 5 due procedure of admission
SUB-SECTION C The executive body of the organization shall consist of the under
3.3 MEETINGS listed.
3.1. The monthly general meetings of the organization shall be 1. PRESIDENT
held on the first Sunday of every month, immediately after the 2. VICE-PRESIDENT
8:00am mass, at any suitable hall within the parish premises. 3. SECRETARY GENERAL
3.2 An emergency general meeting may be convened by the 4. ASSISTANT SECRETARY
executive (where the need arises) after due publicity. 5. FINANCIAL SECRETARY
6. TREASURER
3.3 Executive meeting shall be held twice in a month one of 7. PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER 1
which must be a Tuesday preceding the general meeting and the 8. PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER 2
second any other day of the month subject to the agreement of 9. PROVOST 1
the executive after 6pm mass in any suitable hall within the 10.PROVOST 2
parish premises. 11.PASTORAL 1
3.4 Quorum; General meetings A two third majority of the 12.PASTORAL 2
members shall constitute a Quorum. Executives: any five 13.WELFARE1
members two of which shall be the President or voice president 14.WELFARE 2
and the secretary or assistance secretary shall constitute a EX-OFFICO MEMBERS
quorum (secretary with order by the president). 15. IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT WHO IS STILL AN ACTIVE
3.5 Dress Code: the dress code for every general meetings MEMBER
weddings, burial, etc. shall be white shirt (long sleeves) upon 16. YOUTH SPECIAL ADVISER
black skirt with youth scarf or pure white scarf for females and 17. PATRONS/PATRONESSES
white shirt (long sleeves) upon black trousers for males or SUB-SECTION C
Footnote: No designs, three quarters, short or sleeves shirts, and 4.3 RESPONSIBILITIES OF OFFICERS
no short skirts nor Jeans is allowed during the activities 4.3.1 PRESIDENT
highlighted above. i. Shall preside over all the executive and general meetings
SECTION FOUR of the organization.
SUB-SECTION A ii. shall endorse all minutes of the organization
4.1 SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR iii. Shall conduct a vote to end matters where no consensus
4.1.1 Shall act as the spiritual mentor and chancellor of the could be reached.
organization. He is the representative of the parish priest. iv. shall exercise veto power in case of a tie in vote and or
SUB-SECTION B when the need arises.
4.2 COMPOSITION OF EXECUTIVE v. Shall present quarterly reports and harmonized the
annual report of the organization at the end of each year.
vi. Shall draw up agenda for meetings in collaboration with
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 4.3.5 FINANCIAL SECRETARY
viii. shall authorize expenditure it times of emergency not i. Shall collect and keep records of all the organizations
exceeding a sum of ten thousand naira (20,000) only. income.
ix. Shall make available the organization financial record to ii. Shall issue and keep records of all payment vouchers of the
the parish priest or his representative at least once a year. organization.
x. Shall be signatory to the organization’s account. iii. Shall remit all income to the treasurer within 48 hrs of
xi. The president reserves the discretion to pardoning or collection.
awarding a penalty while the laws in the constitution are iv. Shall render a statement of income and expenditure at every
observed alongside. general meeting.
4.3.2 VICE PRESIDENT v. Shall request estimation from all other executive members
i. Shall deputize in the absence of the president
for the preparation of an appropriation budget in
ii. Shall be chairman of the sisters’ affair committee, if a
female. collaboration with the president.
iii. Shall perform any other duty as may be delegated to vi. Shall make available the organization’s financial records to
him/her by the president. the Audit committee not later than two weeks to the
4.3.3 GENERAL SECRETARY expiration of their office or as at when need be.
i. Shall be responsible for all secretariat documentation vii. Shall prepare quarterly, the statement of account to the
for on behalf of the organization.
organizational at general meetings.
ii. Shall preside over meetings in the absence of the
president and vice president. 4.3.6 TREASURER
iii. Shall run the administration of the organization in the i. Shall be in custody of all funds belonging to the
absence of the president and vice president. organization and deposit same in the organization’s bank
4.3.4 ASSISTANT SECRETARY account within 48 hrs after receiving same from the
i. Shall in the absence of the secretary, perform all the duties financial secretary excluding the imp rest amount
aforementioned ii. Shall be in custody of the organization’s bank note i.e
cheques and cash book.
ii. Shall perform such duties as delegated by the general
iii. Shall maintain a monthly imp rest account of five thousand
secretary or the executive.
(5, 000) naira only and retires same in the executive and
iii. With/in reference to section 4, sub-section C article 3 item
general meeting.
iv. And (iv) he/she cannot perform the duties of the
iv. Shall effect the payment of all duly authorized vouchers and
secretary in administration of the organization.
shall not make any payment without a voucher, while
ensuring value for money in the expenditure.
v. Shall liaise with the financial secretary for the preparation
of reports/statement of account.
8 vi. Shell keep and maintain accurate 9 and up to date account of
 4.3.7 PUBLIC RELATION OFFICER 1 ii. Shall carry out other activities assigned to, by the
i. Shall handle all approved publications of the organization president when the need arises.
ii. Shall liaise with the mother church, external bodies on 4.3.13 WELFARE 1
behalf of the organization on matters bordering on
i. Shall be in charge of all welfare activities as stated in
information dissemination.
iii. Shall be the organization’s spoke’s person to the general section 4.5
public (Image maker) ii. And any other duty assigned by the president as the need
4.3.8 PUBLIC RELATION OFFICER 2 arises.
i. Shall actualize the aforementioned in the absence of PRO 1 4.3.14 WELFARE 2
ii. Shall assist the PRO 1 and perform any other duties as they i. Shall assist the welfare officer in discharge of his or her
both may agree. duties and do same in his or absence.
4.3.9 PROVOST 1 ii. And any other duty assigned by the president when the
i. Shall maintain peace and other in all the organizations need arises.
gathering. 4.3.15 EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
ii. Shall ensure the proper arrangement of the venue for i. The Ex-officio member of the executives listed in 15-17
meetings and other activities. above shall play advisory role both to the organization and
iii. Shall enforce the payment of fines and penalties, by individual members. (Patrons should be married in the
members as pronounced by the president. Church).
iv. Shall report/complain to the executive committee all ii. They shall be communicants who are zealous for the total
matters of breach of the constitution. well-being of the youth and shall be chosen from St.
v. Shall be subject to the directives of the organization Christopher community.
president. iii. Item No. 15(the immediately past president who is still an
4.3.10 PROVOST 2 active member) shall serve as a bridge between the past
i. Shall assist the provost 1 in the discharge of his /her and incumbent executive for easy administration and
duties and do same in his or her absence. continuity.
4.3.11 PASTORAL 1 iv. Item No. 17 (Youth special adviser) shall be appointed by
i. Shall be the head of the pastoral committee the executives and ratified by the general house, however
ii. Shall carry out other duties assign to him or her by the he/she shall have graduated from CYON to CMO/CWO.
president when the need arise. v. Patron/patronesses shall
4.3.12 PASTORAL 2 i. Be appointed by the organization and endorsed by
1. shall be the assistant head of pastoral, shall assist his or her the parish priest.
superior in the discharge of duties and shall carry out his or

10 11
 ii. Receive a certificate duly signed by the parish priest, ii. Shall coordinate and keep records of participation of the
President and secretary on his /her appointment. clean up exercises and also organize charity works
iii. Be a practicing catholic and be able to address and advice iii. Shall ensure the continuous existence and growth of the
the CYON on the matters affecting the organization and various groups (i.e zones, bands/technical, drama,
the church. cultural, sport etc) of the organization.
iv. Meet the executives and /or the general house as and at
iv. Shall give a monthly report to the executive and general
when required.
SUB-SECTION D house of the well-being of zones and the various groups
4.4 COMMITTEE/RESPONSIBILITIES through periodic visits (e.g any sick or non-performing
4.4.1 The executives council shall appoint CYON members into member)
subcommittees. Where there is an objection to any appointment v. Shall coordinate the activities of the zonal leaders/welfare
which carries 2/3 majority of the general house, the executive committee and deanery representation.
council shall replace such appointed member with another vi. Shall be responsible for youth outings such as wedding
person.
felicitation and condolence visits.
i. The executive council shall have the power to set up any of
the committee (s) as may be required for the effective vii. Shall ensure that entitlements and award as provide in the
running of the affairs/activities of the organization. constitution are giving to merited members.
ii. the committee shall be given a term of reference in writing 4.6 AUDIT COMMITTEE
at most two (2) weeks after their inauguration. i. Shall be set up when a call is so made by the general
iii. The number of members of any committee shall be limited house owing to any obvious lapses and/or discrepancies
only to the nature of task to be carried out by the in the organization financial records or as a periodic
committee. check.
iv. A take-off grants shall be given to committees set up,a s ii. Shall be independent of the executive committee while
may be required for their function (s) and/or in-line with carrying out their duties.
the term of reference. iii. Shall consist of five members, of which all shall be active
v. Without prejudice to the above mentions, the executive members of the organization
council shall appoint the following House Committee. iv. The chairman and secretary amongst others shall be
4.5 WELFARE COMMITTEE account/audit professionals. Where there is none, a
i. Shall be in-charge of all welfare activities of the person of credible character shall be chosen by the house.
organization (i.e ensuring the promotion of issues relating v. Shall audit the organization’s records at the expiration of
to the welfare of members, and also liase with SAC in all the tenure of office.
matters related to entertainment).
12 13
(vi) Shall undertake the examination of the financial transaction 8. In pursuance of the success of the committee, it shall have
of any ad-hoc committee at the expiration of their term with a access to the homes of defaulters (s) or any other location
view of expressing her opinion and recommendations. deemed necessary by the committee to aid effective
investigation.
(vii). Shall annually inspect the organization’s financial records
9. All suspects shall be given opportunities to appear before the
and make appropriate report at the expiration of the tenure
Disciplinary Committee for defense.
office recommendations.
10. All issues that require disciplinary action shall be referred to
(Viii). Shall report to the general house all its finding the committee by the executive council. Acts constituting
genuine cases of indiscipline shall be
(ix) Shall be an ad-hoc committee i. Homosexual, incest and Prostitution
ii. Abortion and Murder of any kind
4.7 DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE iii. Misappropriation of CYON fund or embezzlement
1. Shall be independent of the executive committee while iv. Cultism
carrying out their duties. v. Drug, pedding, extreme cases of (abuse or addiction) and
2. Shall consist of five or six members of which all shall be drunkenness.
active members of the organization. vi. Fighting and Quarreling
vii. immodest and mundane dressing including women wearing
3. The chairman and secretary shall be either of the legal
clothes above kneel and men wearing pant above kneel to
profession or law enforcement agencies. Where there is none a CYON functions. (except cases were it affects nature of job, and
person of credible character shall be chosen other activities involving such attires like cultural display
4. Shall undertake investigation and adjudicate on such matters sporting wear etc. when approved by the executive council.)
of discipline and contravening of the bye-law. Their verdict shall viii. All other attitudes capable of undermining the integrity as
be binding on all members of the organization. well as threatening the peaceful co-existence of the organization.
5. In the event of an of unpopular verdict, the matter shall be FOOTNOTE: Any member who happen to have a child before
joining the organization on wedding shall not receive the
referred to the Ex-officio members before the spiritual director.
constitutional benefit (s) right (s) but as suggested by the
6. In the event of an executive members investigation, such executive.
officer shall be relieved of his/her duties pending the outcome of
the investigation. 4.8 EDUCATION/ENLIGHTENMENT COMMITTEE
7. The committee shall report all her verdict to the general i. Shall consist of seven members or more.
house. ii. The chairman and secretary shall be professionally trained
educators. Where there is none, person (s) of credible character
shall be chosen.
14 15
iii. Shall ensure the human development of members 5.1 GROUPS/RESPONSIBLITIES:
iv. Shall conduct test for successful candidates on all O’level 5.1.1 BAND/TECHNICAL/CHOIR
examinations each year as to present names of three most i. Shall be the custodian of the organization’s musical
outstanding for awards. instruments
v. Shall encourage members to improve their literate level ii. Shall undertake evangelical and commercial ventures
through organization of quiz, debates, essay writing, lectures, iii. Shall entertain the organization and mother church in any
seminars etc (some of the listed function could be done in activity/function as directed by the executives.
conjunction with the pastoral group). iv. Shall train interested members in the use of musical
4.9 SISTERS AFFAIRS COMMITTEE (SAC) instruments
I. Shall compose of all female members of the organization 5.1.2 DRAMA
II. The chairperson shall be the highest female ranking officer i. Shall train interested members in the art of theater art and
in the executive drama
III. Shall undertake those exclusive female needs ii. Shall present drama piece relating to spiritual doctrines of
IV. Shall at the supervision and co-ordination of the welfare the church at notice given by the executive.
officer ensure the provision and or equitable distribution iii. Shall undertake commercial entertainment ventures as the
of food and other related items at the organizations case arises, on approval of the welfare/social committee
activities or functions iv. Shall have an artistic director (and assistant if need be) as
V. Shall perform other functions (s) assigned to them by the appointed by the President.
president and or the executive council. 5.1.3 DANCE
4.10 PASTORAL COMMITTEE i. Shall train interested members in cultural dances
i. The chairperson shall be the pastoral head Choreography etc.
ii. Be responsible for all spiritual activities, improvement of ii. Shall be the custodian of the organization’s cultural
musical instrument and regalia.
the Youth’s knowledge/ understanding of the scripture
iii. Shall presents cultural dances and choreographic display
and the doctrine of the church.
the organization or mother church.
iii. Organize such activities which will improve the spiritual
iv. Shall undertake entertainments or commercial ventures at
growth of members, namely Retreats, Revivals, Quiz,
notice given by the executive or welfare/social committee.
Carols, Sing-songs, Lectures, Catechism and Bible studies v. Shall have a group leader (and assistant if need be) as
etc. appointed by the President.
iv. Organize such activities as in (iii) above at least two (2) 5.1.4 SPORT
times a year. i. Shall be in charge and organize sporting activities for the
v. Be responsible for counseling the youths with regards to organization as directed by the general house and or the
spiritual guidance e.g attendance to sacrament, pre- executives council.
guidance to marriages, sex education, distribution of ii. Shall have a director and assistant appointed by the
Christian literature etc. president.

16 17
NOTE: All the above listed groups are sub-committees under the Conduct a general election within two general meeting before the
social committee and all appointment shall be terminated at the end of their tenure.
end of the executive tenure or before if the president wishes Every tenure shall last for 2 years.
for a change in persons heading the groups). 5.2. NOMINATION OF CANDIDATE
i. From among the electoral officers a returning officers shall be
SECTION FIVE appointed.
SUB-SECTION A ii. Nomination shall be by simple raising up of hand and it shall
5.1 ELECTION OF OFFICERS prerogative of the electoral officer to appoint who nominates.
GENERAL CONDUCTS iii. No member shall be allowed to nominate twice for a particular
i. There shall be general election into offices Nos 1-14 of post, while the electoral officer could reject any nomination
section (4) the office of the past president (No. 15) shall be he/she doubts its genuineness with cogent reasons.
iv. The electoral committee shall conduct a general election within
filled by the selected by the executive, subject to the
two general meetings to the end of any tenure of office.
endorsement of the general house.
v. Absenteesim on the Election Day after proper announcement
ii. The tenure of office for every elected executives shall be has been made without permission from the electoral
two years. committee shall attract a penalty of two hundred (200.00)
iii. Any officer having held a particular office for two naira only.
consecutive terms shall not be eligible for re-election into vi. Any member appointed or nominated for any post must submit
same office. a manifesto to the house.
iv. An electoral officer who may include a matron/patroness 5.3 ELECTION OF OFFICERS
spiritual Director representative of the Deanery and i. Election shall be held in every two years
parish Council Ex-officio member shall in as observers ii. No officer shall be qualified for nomination for an office
during the election he/she has held for two consecutive term
v. Indebtedness and proven case of indiscipline as listed in iii. Any member whose monthly dues and levies are not up to
section 4.7 above shall disqualify a member from holding date before the commencement of the election shall not be
voted for
an office or voting except otherwise decided by the
iv. Any members who is adjudged deficient participation and
general house.
attendance shall be disqualified from the election.
vi. Three months to the expiration of any tenure of office, the v. Any member whom a vote of no confidence has been passed
incumbent president shall set up an electoral committee. on shall not stand for the election
vi. Before a member is eligible to be voted for he/she must be
a communicant
vii. Any member to be voted for shall be of integrity
viii. Before a member is qualified to contest for election. He/she
must be at least six months order in the organization.

18 19
 ix. Two months notice shall be given before the conduct of the 5.4 BYE-ELECTION
election. I. Where an office is vacant as a result of resignation,
x. The deanery representatives shall be present at the election. dismissal, impeachment, transfer or death, the house shall
xi. Election shall be conducted after the first general meeting conduct a bye-election within sixty (60) days to fill the
after a term. This must be made to coincide, as much as vacant seat.
possible with the end of the term. II. Failure of approval by the highest ranking officer within
xii. Nomination shall be by open ballot while elections shall be 60 days as regards the above mentioned in section 5.4.i,
by secret ballot. (after a motion had been raised and supported by 2/3 of
xiii. A member shall be given a maximum of two chances of the house) result to an automatic impeachment.
nomination. III. Where the officer is head of the department the assistant
xiv. A winner shall be contested for separately becomes the head and the position of the assistant will be
xv. A note shall be given to the church parish council informing declared vacant.
them of the elections and delegates shall come in as
IV. There shall be no swapping of offices (however an
observers.
executive members is at liberty to resign from his office
xvi. A three members panel, which shall include at least one non-
and becomes fit to contest for another position before the
registered members of CYON preferably the parish priest
commencement of a bye-election).
patron/Matrons. Shall be appointed by the house of
observer during the election. 5.5 RESIGNATION/LOSS OF OFFICE
xvii. The incumbent shall handover documents to the newly I. An officer shall be at liberty to resign his/her position,
elected officers on the day of the general meeting after the provided that he/she tenders a notification as the need
general election. arises before the effective date of disengagement and shall
xviii. Newly elected officers shall assume office at the first general II. An elected officer may also lose his/her office, if a case of
meeting immediately after the handover is done by the gross misconduct brought against him/her is established
incumbent. by the disciplinary committee.
xix. Newly elected officers shall attend retreat/induction course III. An elected officer could lose his/her office by death, or as
before the first general meeting after the elected person (s) a result of negligence of duty or abuse of office, whereby a
who fails to attend such organized programs shall pay a vote of no confidence shall be moved against him/her,
penalty as may be agreed by the house (this is applicable seconded at a general meeting.
only when an induction until a winner emerges. IV. The impeachment motion so moved shall be considered in
xx. No executive member of deanery or the diocese is allow to the same general meeting.
contest. V. If the impeachment motion commands two-third majority
xxiii. Election shall start from the highest ranking office. support the officer shall vacate the office.
xxiv. No married members is allowed to contest for any position VI. In event of any of the aforementioned, a bye-election shall
(but can be appointed to handle groups by the incumbent be held within sixty (60) days.
President).

20 21
 SECTION SIX
III. The treasurer shall maintain at all times a retire able
FINANCE impress (float) of ten thousand (10,000) naira only.
SUB-SECTION A IV. Signatories to the bank account shall be the president, the
treasurer and the parish priest. The president, and any
6.1 SOURCE OF INCOME other one of the two above shall be eligible to approve the
instrument for withdrawal from the bank.
6.1.1 The source of income for the organization shall be:
V. At the expiration of any tenure or change of parish Priest,
1. Membership registration/card fee. a change of account signatories with the organization
2. Monthly dues. banker shall be effected within 3 months.
3. Revenue from cultural and drama.
4. Rental charges from band, chairs/tables and bus. SECTION SEVEN.
5. Donations/launching. 7.1 CODE OF CONDUCT/DISCIPLINE OF MEMBERS.
6. Offering from prayer meetings vigils. I. Lateness to any of the organizations meeting whether
7. Interest from bank accounts general, or Executive , especially after the minutes of the
8. Fines and such others. previous meeting had been read and adopted, shall attract
9. Proceeds from the shop. an on-the-spot fine of N50,00(fifty naira) only.
10. Any other source approved by the general house. II. Non-attendance to any of the organization functions
except with prior and approved permission of the
6.2 FINANCIAL CONDUCT president or secretary attract a fine of N100.00 ( one
I. The organization shall operate a saving account and/or hundred naira) only.
such that may be agreed by the Executive council on the III. Any member who indulges in random speeches, noise
understanding of the parish priest. making, discourteous behavior or disturbance and/or
II. All expenditure be requisition signed by the heads of the distraction during executive council/General meeting shall
committee incurring the exchange and improved by the be liable to an on-the-spot fine N50.00 (fifty naira) only
executive council, after which such money shall be and any other punishment suitable.
accounted for. IV. Any member who is found guilty of stealing, fighting, etc,
III. All receipt on behalf of the organization shall be deposited shall be suspended for a period not less than one (1)
into the organization’s bank account within 3 working month and/or other sanction (s) as may be recommended
days. by the disciplinary committee and approved by the
Executive council or General house.

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IV. Any member who fails to attend a General Meeting XI. Any member who is found guilty of unhealthy or immoral
and/or function/activity in the recommended uniform relationship shall be suspended and or expelled from the
organization and/or such other sanction(s) as any be
without a prior approval from the president shall pay a
recommended by the disciplinary committee subject to
fine of N100.00 (hundred naira) only and any other executive council/General house approval.
punishment suitable. XII. Any member who indulges in any activity or conduct
V. Any member found guilty of embezzlement or within or outside the church, likely to embarrass the
misappropriation of organization funds shall in organization or bring it into hatred, contempt, ridicule,
dispute or scandal in whatever manner shall face
addition to the provision of section seven shall be liable
disciplinary measures.
to any other sanctions(s) as may be recommended by XIII. Without prejudice to the aforementioned offences and
the disciplinary committee. punishments, the executive council, disciplinary
VI. Any member who engages in dishonest practices of committee or General house can from time impose any
fraud shall be prevented from holding any office. punishment on any member for any act or offence which
VII. Disobedience negligence in carrying out lawful is inconsistent with the provision of this constitution
and/or aims and objectives of the organization and/or
directive of the organization or executive subject to a laws, teachings and traditions of the Catholic Church.
fine as may be recommended by the disciplinary XIV. Every member shall have the right to be heard in matters
committee subject to the executive council/General that affects him/her with regards to discipline.
house approval. And refusal to comply results to a XV. Where a member fails, neglect and/or refuses to appear
further punishment as maybe agreed by the house if before the disciplinary committee in respect to any
allegation/offence, the committee’s finding and
reasons are not convincing.
recommendation if upheld by the General house, shall be
VIII. Any officer of the organization who disobeys and/or binding.
neglects to carry out lawful directive or duty of the XVI. Information on the suspension and or expulsion of a
organization shall be liable to a fine N200.00 (two member as a result of disciplinary measure shall be
hundred naira) only and/or be removed from office communicated to the parish in writing within one (1)
month of such decision and his decision on the matter
after a fair hearing.
shall be binding.
XVII. Any member aggrieved by a decision of the disciplinary
committee, Executive council and or General house in line

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With the provisions of this constitution , shall have right to member fails to meet the criteria in No (2) Above, the monetary
appeal within two (2) weeks after the date of the decision to the benefits shall be deducted from what the member owes and the
parish priest and his decision on te matter shall be final. balance paid to him/her.
SUB-SECTION B
SECTION EIGHT. 9.2 CATEGORIES OF BENEFITS
8.1 SUSPENSION OF MEMBERS Provided a member satisfies the provision as listed in sub-
I. All act of gross misconduct or indiscipline which include section Above, he/she shall benefits as under listed.
misbehavior in public places like: fighting, quarreling and 9.2. 1 WEDDING
stealing. I. Cost free performance by the youth band group.
II. Any rebellion against constitution authority’s and refusal II. Free use of the organization’s chairs, tables, and other
to carry out lawful orders given by those in authority. such services as may be available within the organization
III. Embezzlement of the organization’s fund or property. The excluding the bus service. Which will be at a minimal
culprit, shall in addition, refund the amount or properly so charge.
embezzled to the organization. III. Presentation of a Rosary. Catholic version of the Holy
IV. The period of suspension shall be depending on the gravity Bible, a token of ten thousand (10,000) naira only and
of the offence with a letter. also free will donation from members.
V. Any youth members on suspension shall not be entitled to IV. If a member is marrying outside the church (catholic)
any benefit with the period of the suspension. he/she will be entitled to the above benefits.
V. Entitled to CYON Clearance (which includes a discount of
SECTION NINE. parish hall in the understanding of the Priest in Charge)
BENEFITS 9.2.2 YOUTH WEDDING.
SUB-SECTION A I. The couple (members) shall be entitled to all the benefits
9.1 CRITERIA FOR BENEFITS as listed under wedding above, exception item No. 111
1. To be entitled to the right and privilege of membership, wherein which shall be double (They shall be presented
one should have been an active member of the with two Rosaries two Catholic version of the Holy Bible
organization for minimum of one year excluding and a token of twenty thousand (20,000) naira only.
transferring members with proof of active participation II. For any member wedding outside Port Harcourt diocese,
from their parish of domicile. a minimum of two shall represent the organization as
2. A member shall have recorded a minimum attendance of long as he/she satisfies the conditions for benefits given
70% at all CYON function as prayer meetings, vigils, above and provides a means of transportation.
general meetings, labor etc within the last one year.
3. To enjoy any right from the organization the matter in
question shall be in good financial standing whereas if the

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III. A certificate of merit shall be presented to the couple. indebted. Otherwise it shall be treated as in No
9.2.4 above during a condolence visit.
INVITATION PROCEDURE FOR WEDDING
I. A formal invitation to a catholic wedding shall reach the 9.2.6 DISASTER
organization later than two months to the wedding date. i. Any member involved in disaster with substantial
II. Such invitation shall be accompanied with a wedding card
and any other item as it pleases the invitee. loss of goods/properties shall be presented with a
III. Any intending couple that defaults this provision shall purse of five thousand (5,000) naira only in
have their entitlement denied. Members of the
Organization shall however, be encourage to attend such addition of the proceeds from the free will donation
wedding on individual basis. organized on his/her behalf shall be presented.
9.2.4 DEATH OF MEMBER
I. At the death of an active member, the organization shall in SECTION TEN.
full attendance accompany the remains (corpse) for 10. GENERAL
interment and participate actively in the service of song. ii. Every standing committee shall be dissolved
I A purse of ten thousand (10,000) naira only shall be
together with the executives that set them up at
given to the next of kin, during a condolence visit with evening
prayer, Whereas, if he/she is indebted, the purse shall be a the expiration of the executive’s tenure of office.
difference of the amount he/she owed.
iii. The Clauses, “good financial standing” and “active
III. The transportation entertainment of the members at
the burial and service of song shall be the responsibility of the members” shall refer to an up-to-date payment of
organization.
dues, levies, fines and regular attendance to
IV. A requiem/mass shall be arranged by the organization.
9.2.5 LOSS OF A MEMBER(S) PARENT activities respectively.
I. The loss of any members (s) parent shall attract a
iv. The executive may constitute an ad-hoc committee
delegation of full members at the interment and visit
where in Port Harcourt of the entire organization either where the need arises.
before or after burial.
v. ORDER: call for order takes precedence over any
II. A purse of three thousand (3,000) naira only shall also be
presented to the bereaved member, so long as he/she is other business during meetings.
not

28 29
vii. The call for other shall by simply saying the words “for
God and for youths” and attention shall be restored with a SECTION TWELVE
response saying “through Christ”. PLEDGE OF FIDELITY
viii. INFORMATION: A point of information shall be made to 1. Any Person who has been called to pledge his or her
substantiate an issue under discussion or give clarity to fidelity should appear before the congregation with a
issues. Rosary and a copy of the Catholic version of the Bible.
ix. LEAVES: Taking leave out of meeting with out permission 2. Every officer (elected or appointed) shall subscribe to
attracts a fine of (100,00) fifty naira. pledge of office as provided herein after, before the
x. DRESS: Wearing of dresses considered as mundane shall congregation and/or General house which will be
attract penalty. administered by the Priest in-charge or the Presiding
SECTION ELEVEN. chair person or any other person(s) delegated to carry
such function.
AMENDMENT/REVIEW
3. The Pledge of Fidelity shall be Thus: I,
i. The provision of this constitution shall remain in force
………………………………………………………………………………
without any amendment for twelve (12) calendar months
do solemnly declare that shall be faithful to the Catholic
in the first instance.
Church and to the Catholic Youths Organization of
ii. This constitution is subject to a review in every half
Nigeria (CYON) of St. Christopher Catholic Church of
decade.
Port Harcourt Diocese.
iii. This document shall be amended by a properly
I. That as the/a ………………………………………….. Of the
constituted committee based on a unanimous agreement Organization, I shall discharge my duties to the best of
of a two-third (2/3) majority of members present in the my abilities, faithfully and in accordance with the
general meeting, whereby a motion this effect was moved provisions of the Catholic Church.
and seconded. II. That I shall not allow my noble idea to conflict with the
iv. A paragraph, sub-section or section as bye-law shall be provisions of the constitution of the catholic youth
provided as inclusion to this constitution when a organization of Nigeria and of its Mother Church.
III. That I shall not allow my personal interest(s) to
substantive motion is brought to the general house and
influence my official conduct and I shall to the best of
enjoys a two-third (2/3) majority support of members my abilities purse protect and defend this constitution.
present. Hence the paragraph, sub-section or section shall
be suspended.
v. The President shall inaugurate a constitution review
committee to draft the proposed amendment.

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 THE
CONSTITUTION

CATHOLIC YOUTHS ORGANIZATION OF NIGERIA (CYON)

ST. CHRISTOPHER CATHOLIC CHURCH,
RUMUOKWURUSI DEANERY, PORT HARCOURT DIOCESE
RIVERS STATE
 1

COMMENCEMENT

1. The old constitution is invalidated, nullified and ceases to

exist as a constitution of the said organization.
2. The newly amended constitution shall from this day……….
of the month of………………………….2022

Signed:

Osuagwu Cynthia .N. Otu Pius

CONSTITUTION COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN PRESIDENT

Rev. Fr. Patrick Vareba

PARISH PRIEST THE
This………….day of …………………………………202………….. CONSTITUTION
CATHOLIC YOUTHS ORGANIZATION OF NIGERIA (CYON)
ST. CHRISTOPHER CATHOLIC CHURCH, RUMUOKWURUSI
DEANERY, PORT HARCOURT DIOCESE
RIVERS STATE

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