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 amount.
Umar is facing a four-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which alleges that he conferred undue advantage on himself while serving as Chairman of the CCT and Chairman of the tribunal’s Tender Board. He was arraigned on July 9.
At Wednesday’s proceedings, defence counsel, Sunday Edward, urged the court to grant his client bail in accordance with Section 36(5) of the Constitution and Sections 162 and 163 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), pending the determination of the case.
Counsel to the EFCC, Christopher Mshelia, opposed the application, asking the court to refuse bail and instead order an accelerated hearing of the matter.
In his ruling, Justice Peter Kekemeke held that bail cannot be denied unless there is credible evidence that the defendant is likely to commit another offence, evade trial or interfere with witnesses.
The judge observed that Umar no longer occupies a position from which he could intimidate witnesses and noted that the prosecution failed to provide convincing evidence that he was likely to abscond or obstruct the course of justice.
Justice Kekemeke added that it would be improper to deny bail based on mere speculation or unsubstantiated beliefs.
The court subsequently admitted Umar to bail in the sum of N100 million with one surety in like amount. The judge also directed that the surety must own property within the court’s jurisdiction.
The case was adjourned until October 29 for the commencement of trial.
