In a groundbreaking move that underscores the Senate’s commitment to upholding integrity and accountability in public service, Danladi Umar has been removed as Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT). The Senate invoked Section 157(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, citing gross misconduct and negligence as grounds for his dismissal.
The decision, reached through a decisive Senate plenary session, represents a turning point for the CCT, which is tasked with maintaining high ethical standards among public officers. But what led to this historic development?
Contents
A Closer Look at the Senate’s Deliberation
The motion to sack Umar was listed as the first item on the Senate’s order paper. It was championed by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who argued that Umar’s actions had tarnished the reputation of the tribunal. Following a closed-door session lasting over an hour, the Senate reconvened and overwhelmingly supported the motion, with 74 members signing and a total of 84 senators endorsing the decision.
The Senate’s stance is rooted in a series of allegations leveled against Umar, including corruption, absenteeism, and inappropriate public behavior. Among the most glaring accusations was his alleged physical altercation with a security officer in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which raised questions about his suitability to lead a tribunal of such magnitude.
The Allegations That Triggered the Sack
Danladi Umar’s tenure as CCT Chairman had been marred by controversies. The Senate received numerous petitions detailing alleged corruption, misappropriation, and absenteeism. Despite being summoned by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions on multiple occasions, Umar reportedly attended only one hearing and failed to cooperate with subsequent investigations.
Furthermore, his actions reportedly caught the attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Department of State Services (DSS). These agencies are said to be investigating the alleged financial improprieties and professional misconduct associated with his role.
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Senate’s Stand on Integrity and Accountability
Highlighting the significance of the tribunal, Senator Bamidele emphasized the need for public institutions to embody moral rectitude. He stated, “A statutory institution of such magnitude is expected to be an epitome of moral rectitude and should uphold virtues of integrity, probity, and accountability. However, the conduct of Mr. Yakubu Danladi Umar has fallen short of these standards.”
The Senate also noted that Umar’s prolonged absenteeism from office without permission not only disrupted the tribunal’s operations but also breached ethical standards for public officeholders.
The Appointment of a New CCT Chairman
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier nominated Abdullahi Usman Bello as the new Chairman of the CCT. The Senate confirmed Bello’s appointment during a plenary session on July 4, 2024. With Umar’s removal, Bello is expected to take over officially, bringing a fresh perspective and renewed focus to the tribunal’s operations.
What This Means for Nigeria’s Judiciary
The Senate’s decision to remove Umar sends a strong message about the importance of accountability and ethical conduct in public service. It also reflects a growing resolve to restore public trust in key institutions. Observers believe that Abdullahi Usman Bello’s leadership may mark a new era for the tribunal, emphasizing transparency and adherence to the rule of law.
For citizens, the development underscores the Senate’s role as a watchdog, ensuring that public officers adhere to the highest standards of morality and accountability.
Final Thoughts
The removal of Danladi Umar as CCT Chairman is more than a disciplinary action—it is a statement of intent by the Senate to prioritize integrity over impunity. As Abdullahi Usman Bello assumes office, all eyes will be on the CCT to see whether it can rise to the expectations of Nigerians under its new leadership.
For more information, visit the original report by Vanguard here.
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