JUST IN: Senate removes CCT chairman over misconduct

The Nigerian Senate invoked Section 157 (1) of the 1999 Constitution on Wednesday to terminate Yakubu Umar's tenure as Code of Conduct Tribunal Chairman, citing misconduct. Umar's removal, supported by 74 senators with 10 others in attendance, enables Abdullahi Bello's appointment as Chairman.

The Senate's decision, reflecting concerns over Umar's conduct, highlights the importance of upholding high standards in public office. A closed-door session preceded the motion, led by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele and seconded by Senate Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno.

It was 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.”

According to Bamidele, “The Senate: Notes that the Code of Conduct Tribunal is one of the key components of Federal Institutions in the country, saddled with the sacred statutory responsibilities of maintaining high standard of morality in the conduct of government business and to ensure that the actions and behaviours of public officers conform to the highest standards of public morality and accountability