Nigerian Senate Removes Danladi Umar as CCT Chairman Over Allegations of Gross Misconduct
The Nigerian Senate, on Wednesday, officially removed Danladi Umar from his position as Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT). This decision followed a closed-door session where lawmakers deliberated on allegations of corruption, misconduct, and absenteeism leveled against Umar.
Grounds for Removal
More than 84 senators supported the resolution to remove the embattled chairman, invoking Section 157(1) of the 1999 Constitution. This constitutional provision grants the Senate authority to remove the head of a statutory body for gross misconduct with the approval of at least two-thirds of its members.
The motion leading to Umar’s dismissal was initiated by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, and titled: “Invocation of the Provision of Section 157 (1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as Amended, for the Removal of the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal.”
Allegations Against Umar
Bamidele highlighted a litany of complaints and petitions against Umar, including allegations of corruption, misconduct, absenteeism, and a physical altercation with a security guard in the Federal Capital Territory.
“It has come to the attention of this Senate, through multiple petitions, that the Chairman of the CCT has failed to meet the ethical standards required of a public officer,” Bamidele stated. He further noted that Umar had been absent from office for over a month without proper authorization.
Additionally, despite being summoned multiple times by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, Umar only appeared once and ignored subsequent invitations. His conduct, coupled with ongoing investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and the Department of State Services (DSS), formed the basis of his removal.
Senate’s Position
The Senate underscored the importance of integrity and accountability in the operations of the Code of Conduct Tribunal, a body tasked with ensuring ethical standards in government affairs.
“Institutions such as the CCT must exemplify the highest levels of morality and public accountability,” Bamidele remarked. “However, Mr. Danladi Umar’s conduct has fallen far short of these standards, tarnishing the reputation of this critical institution.”
Appointment of a New Chairman
In light of these issues, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu submitted the nomination of Mr. Abdullahi Usman Bello as the new Chairman of the CCT. The Senate confirmed Bello’s appointment during its plenary session on July 4, 2024, paving the way for a leadership transition at the tribunal.
The Senate emphasized the urgency of Umar’s dismissal to allow the newly appointed chairman to assume his duties.
Broader Implications
This removal marks a significant step in the Senate’s efforts to address misconduct within federal institutions. Lawmakers reiterated their commitment to upholding accountability and ensuring that public offices are occupied by individuals of high moral standing.
The Senate’s decision sends a clear message about the consequences of negligence and unethical behavior in public service. It remains to be seen how the leadership transition will impact the operations of the CCT and its mandate to promote transparency and integrity in governance.
Danladi Umar’s tenure, which has been marred by controversies and allegations, now comes to an unceremonious end, signaling a new chapter for the Code of Conduct Tribunal under Abdullahi Usman Bello.
