Alleged corruption: Court grants Ex-CCT chairman N100m bail

Former Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) Chairman Danladi Umar has been granted bail of N100 million by the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, Abuja. Justice Peter Kekemeke set the bail conditions, requiring one surety in the same amount who must own landed property with a valid Certificate of Occupancy. Umar is to remain in Kuje Correctional Centre until these conditions are met.

The case stems from a four-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Umar is accused of abusing his office by allegedly conferring corrupt and unfair advantages upon himself during his tenure. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The prosecution, represented by Christopher Mshelia, opposed the bail application, arguing that Umar posed a flight risk and might interfere with witnesses, some of whom served under him. However, Justice Kekemeke found that the prosecution had not sufficiently established these risks, leading to the granting of bail.

According to the EFCC's charges, Umar allegedly procured payments from contractors for projects at the tribunal. Specifically, he is accused of causing N5.5 million to be paid to his wife by a subcontractor in 2021 and another N6 million to her by a company linked to a contractor in 2024. Furthermore, the EFCC alleges he caused the same company to pay tuition fees for his son and daughter at Baze University, amounting to corrupt practices.

The court has adjourned the trial to October 29, 2026, for its commencement. Umar was initially arraigned on July 9 and remanded in custody pending the determination of his bail application.