A Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Maitama has granted bail to former Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), Danladi Umar, in the sum of N100 million with one surety in like sum.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arraigned Umar on July 9 on a four-count charge bordering on alleged gratification and abuse of office. The charges accused him of conferring undue advantage on himself while serving as Chairman of the CCT and Chairman of the CCT Tender Board.
During Wednesday’s proceedings, counsel to the accused, Sunday Edward, urged the court to grant his client bail pending the determination of the case, citing relevant sections of the Constitution and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).
The prosecuting counsel, Christopher Mshelia, opposed the bail application and prayed the court for an accelerated hearing of the matter.
In his ruling, Justice Peter Kekemeke held that bail cannot be denied except on the belief that the defendant would commit another offence if released. The judge further noted that bail may also be refused if the defendant is likely to evade trial or intimidate witnesses.
Justice Kekemeke ruled that Umar is no longer in a position to intimidate witnesses and that the prosecution failed to provide strong evidence that he would jump bail. He described the refusal of bail on mere unsubstantiated belief as wrong.
The court 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 matter was adjourned to October 29, 2026, for trial.
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