A Maitama-based High Court of the Federal Capital Territory has ordered the detention of former Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) Chairman, Danladi Umar, at Kuje prison. Justice Peter Kekemeke issued this ruling after the Federal Government presented a four-count corruption indictment against the former official.
Prosecutors contend that Umar exploited his position to secure illicit financial benefits. Specifically, he is accused of funneling N5.5 million in 2021 through his wife’s bank account from a contractor hired to paint the CCT headquarters. Furthermore, he allegedly received N6 million on January 25, 2024, from another contractor tasked with digitizing CCT records, and instructed a third contractor to pay N2.43 million for his daughter’s Baze University tuition fees. These actions purportedly violate section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
After entering a not-guilty plea, Umar’s defense team requested bail. The prosecution, led by Christopher Mshelia, sought time to file a formal response to the application. Justice Kekemeke subsequently adjourned the proceedings to July 15 for the bail hearing. Umar is remembered for his 2019 issuance of an ex parte order that resulted in the removal of then-Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, eventually convicting him and ordering the forfeiture of his assets despite Onnoghen’s prior resignation.
