The Senate has removed Yakubu Danladi Umar as the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal, CCT, citing acts of gross misconduct and unacceptable behavior deemed unfit for his office.
This decision was based on the provisions of Section 157 (1) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended. The motion to sack Umar was signed by 74 Senators and supported by 10 Senators present during the session, bringing the total to 84 Senators, surpassing the two-thirds majority required.
The Senate deliberated on the matter during a closed-door session that began at 1:17 PM and ended at 2:36 PM. Following the session, Senate Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno moved the motion, supported by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele.
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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,” the motion highlighted key issues:
-Role of the CCT: The tribunal is tasked with upholding moral and ethical standards in government operations.
-Allegations of Misconduct: Umar faced multiple allegations, including corruption, absenteeism, and even physical altercations.
-Failure to Respond: He reportedly ignored Senate invitations to address these allegations, appearing only once before the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions.
Corruption Investigations: Umar is currently being investigated by the EFCC, ICPC, and DSS for allegations of misappropriation.
The Senate noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had already forwarded the nomination of Abdullahi Usman Bello as Umar’s replacement. Bello’s appointment was confirmed by the Senate on July 4, 2024, necessitating Umar’s formal removal to allow the new chairman to assume office.
The Senate’s decision reflects its commitment to maintaining integrity and accountability in federal institutions. With the removal of Yakubu Danladi Umar, Abdullahi Usman Bello is expected to restore public confidence in the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
Credible News.ng
