The Senate, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has entered a closed-door meeting to discuss the possible removal of Justice Danladi Umar, the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT). This follows a motion raised by Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, invoking Section 157(1) of the amended 1999 Constitution, which outlines the procedures for removing the CCT Chairman.
Bamidele called on the Senate to take action, pointing to multiple petitions submitted against Justice Umar. To ensure a smooth discussion, senators agreed to deliberate privately on sensitive aspects before opening the matter to the larger Chamber, according to an insider.
The Constitution requires a two-thirds majority vote from both Chambers for the removal of the CCT Chairman. Should the Senate decide to proceed, the motion suggests that Abdullahi Usman Bello would step in as the new Chairman.
This move comes amid rising concerns about the tribunal’s leadership and operations. The outcome of the Senate’s decision is expected to have significant implications for the CCT’s direction. Once internal deliberations are finalized, the Senate will reconvene in an open session to continue proceedings.
