1. Eligibility for IPOIDU Membership Membership is open to persons who meet the following core requirements: 1.1 Indigeneity / Descent - Any person who is an indigene of Ilaje by birth (born to at least one Ilaje parent), or
- A person who can trace direct ancestral lineage to any of the recognised Ilaje kingdoms, towns, or communities (Ugbo, Mahin, Aheri, Etikan, and other historical Ilaje settlements), or
- A person adopted or recognised under Ilaje customary law as belonging to an Ilaje family.
1.2 Age Requirement - Ordinary membership: 18 years and above.
- Youth membership: 15–35 years (subject to Youth Wing regulations).
- Junior/Cadet membership: Below 15 years (under parental or guardian supervision).
1.3 Character and Conduct - Must be of good character and not convicted of any serious criminal offence that brings the Union or the Ilaje people into disrepute.
- Must uphold the culture, values, and collective interests of the Ilaje people.
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| 2.Categories of Membership |
| Category | Description | Voting Rights | Notes |
| Ordinary Member | Full indigene meeting all basic criteria | Yes | Core membership |
| Diaspora Member | Ilaje descendant resident outside Nigeria | Yes | Same rights as Ordinary |
| Youth Member | Indigene aged 15–35 years | Limited / Yes (Youth Wing) | Under Youth Wing |
| Women’s Wing Member | Female indigene (may also hold Ordinary membership) | Yes | Under Women’s Wing |
| Associate Member | Spouse of an Ilaje indigene or long-term resident with proven contribution | Limited | No right to hold certain offices |
| Honorary Member | Non-Ilaje individuals conferred membership for outstanding service | No | By National Executive decision |
| Life Member | Ordinary member who has paid Life Membership fee | Yes | Exempt from annual dues |
3. Documentation Required for Application Applicants shall submit: - Completed membership application form
- Evidence of Ilaje origin (any of the following): – Birth certificate or affidavit of birth showing Ilaje parentage – Letter of identification from a recognised traditional ruler, family head, or community leader – Local Government of Origin certificate (Ilaje LGA or relevant area) – Family or community attestation
- Two recent passport photographs
- Photocopy of valid means of identification (National ID, International Passport, Driver’s Licence, or Voter’s Card)
- Payment of prescribed registration/admission fee and annual dues
4. Admission Process - Submission of application and supporting documents to the Branch/Chapter or National Secretariat.
- Screening by the Membership Committee.
- Recommendation to the Branch/Chapter Executive or National Executive Council.
- Approval and issuance of membership number and membership card.
- Formal induction (where applicable).
5. Rights of Members - Right to attend meetings and participate in Union activities.
- Right to vote and be voted for (subject to category and constitutional provisions).
- Right to benefit from welfare, educational, and development programmes of the Union.
- Right to receive information and publications of the Union.
- Right to raise matters of concern affecting Ilaje people through proper channels.
6. Obligations of Members - Payment of annual dues and other approved levies.
- Active participation in Union programmes and community development efforts.
- Promotion of unity, peace, and the positive image of the Ilaje people.
- Compliance with the Constitution, Bye-laws, and lawful decisions of the Union.
- Protection of the cultural heritage and collective interests of Ilaje.
7. Cessation / Termination of Membership Membership may cease or be terminated on the following grounds: - Voluntary resignation in writing
- Persistent non-payment of dues after due notice
- Conviction for a serious criminal offence
- Conduct adjudged by the Disciplinary Committee to be injurious to the Union or the Ilaje people
- Death
8. Special Provisions - The National Executive Council may make additional regulations for membership in consultation with Chapters.
- Diaspora Chapters may adopt supplementary requirements consistent with the overall Constitution.
- Dual membership of other recognised Ilaje associations is permitted provided it does not conflict with the objectives of this Union.
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