By Abigail Philip David
The Senate has removed the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), Danladi Umar, citing allegations of gross misconduct and dereliction of duty.
The decision was made during a plenary session after a closed-door meeting that lasted over an hour and a half. More than 84 senators supported the motion to remove Umar, in accordance with Section 157(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers the Senate to remove key public officials after following due process.
The motion for Umar’s removal was sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who emphasized the importance of integrity and accountability in the leadership of the CCT.
“The Code of Conduct Tribunal is expected to exemplify the highest standards of integrity and accountability,” Bamidele stated. “Unfortunately, the conduct of Mr. Danladi Umar has fallen far below these standards, as evidenced by numerous allegations of corruption, misconduct, and absenteeism.”
Allegations Against Umar
The Senate Leader highlighted several key issues, including:
– Avoidance of Investigations: Umar appeared only once before the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions during its investigative hearings, ignoring subsequent invitations.
– Extended Absence: He allegedly stayed away from office for over a month without proper authorization.
– Corruption Allegations: He is under investigation by the EFCC, ICPC, and DSS for alleged misappropriation and misconduct.
– Public Misconduct: Umar was involved in a physical altercation with a security officer in the Federal Capital Territory.
Bamidele described these actions as a breach of the requisite standards for a public officer entrusted with such responsibilities, adding that they undermine the credibility of the Tribunal.
Precedent-Setting Decision
This marks the first time since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999 that the Senate has invoked its constitutional powers to remove the head of a federal agency.
The removal of Umar aligns with the Senate’s confirmation of Abdullahi Usman Bello as the new Chairman of the CCT. Bello’s nomination was submitted by President Bola Tinubu and confirmed on July 4, 2024.
Constitutional Backing
Section 157(1) of the Constitution provides that the President, acting on an address supported by two-thirds of the Senate, may remove the Chairman or members of the CCT for misconduct or inability to discharge their duties.
This decision, according to the Senate, is a step toward preserving the integrity of the Tribunal and reinforcing public trust in Nigeria’s governance institutions.
The move signals the 10th Senate’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining high ethical standards within public service.
