Court Grants Bail to Former CCT Chairman
The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama has granted bail to Danladi Umar, the former Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), in the sum of N100 million with one surety in the same amount. The ruling was delivered on Wednesday, July 15, by Justice Peter Kekemeke.
EFCC Arraignment and Charges
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arraigned Umar on July 9 on a four-count charge. The charges allege that he conferred undue advantage on himself while serving as Chairman of the CCT and also as Chairman of the CCT Tender Board. The specifics of the alleged undue advantage were not detailed in court proceedings.
Defense Application for Bail
During Wednesday's proceedings, Umar's counsel, Sunday Edward, applied for bail, citing Section 36(5) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Sections 162 and 163 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA). He argued that the defendant should be granted bail pending the determination of the suit, as is his constitutional right.
Prosecution's Opposition
Prosecuting counsel Christopher Mshelia opposed the bail application, urging the court to refuse bail and instead order an accelerated hearing of the case. Mshelia argued that the nature of the charges and the defendant's former position warranted a denial of bail.
Justice Kekemeke's Ruling
In his ruling, Justice Peter Kekemeke stated that bail can only be denied on specific grounds: if the defendant is likely to commit another offence while on bail, if he attempts to evade trial, or if he intimidates witnesses. The judge noted that the prosecution had failed to provide strong evidence that Umar would jump bail or intimidate witnesses. He further observed that Umar is no longer in a position to intimidate witnesses, having left his official position. The judge emphasized that it is wrong to refuse bail on an unsubstantiated belief.
Bail Conditions
Justice Kekemeke admitted Umar to bail in the sum of N100 million with one surety in the same amount. The surety must own a property within the jurisdiction of the court. The judge did not specify additional conditions such as travel restrictions or reporting requirements.
Next Hearing Date
The court adjourned the matter until October 29 for trial. Umar is expected to appear in court on that date for the commencement of proceedings. The EFCC is expected to present its case against the former CCT chairman.
