Senate Removes CCT Chairman Danladi Umar Over Alleged Misconduct

The Nigerian Senate has removed Danladi Umar, the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), following allegations of gross misconduct. This decision was made in accordance with Section 157(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended), which grants the Senate the authority to remove key public officials after due process.

The motion to remove Umar was presented during a closed-door session lasting over an hour and a half. Upon resuming plenary, the Senate revealed that more than 84 lawmakers had supported the motion for his removal.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who sponsored the motion, emphasized the importance of the CCT in promoting high standards of integrity and accountability in government. He stated, “The Code of Conduct Tribunal is a statutory institution that must uphold integrity, probity, and accountability. However, Mr. Yakubu Danladi Umar’s conduct has fallen far short of these standards for a public official entrusted with such an important role.”

Bamidele further highlighted that Umar’s actions had tarnished the reputation of the Tribunal, which should be an example of moral rectitude. He noted that the Senate had received numerous petitions accusing Umar of corruption and misconduct, leading the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions to summon him for several investigative hearings. However, Umar only attended one session and failed to respond to further invitations.

The Senate also expressed concern over Umar’s extended absenteeism from office, reportedly for over a month without permission, and his involvement in a public altercation with a security guard in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). These actions, coupled with ongoing investigations by the EFCC, ICPC, and DSS, were cited as evidence of gross negligence and misconduct unbecoming of the CCT Chairman.

In addition, the Senate confirmed the appointment of Abdullahi Usman Bello as the new CCT Chairman. President Bola Tinubu had nominated Bello, and his confirmation took place during a plenary session on July 4, 2024.

Section 157(1) of the Constitution allows for the removal of the CCT Chairman or any member of the Code of Conduct Bureau by the President, based on an address supported by a two-thirds majority of the Senate, for inability to perform duties or misconduct. The Senate’s decision reflects its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the Tribunal and ensuring that it continues to serve as a model of corporate governance in Nigeria.

This marks the first time since 1999 that the Senate has invoked this constitutional provision to remove the head of an agency, demonstrating the 10th Senate’s resolve to uphold the rule of law and maintain public confidence in vital government institutions.