The decision came due to concerns over his effectiveness and responsiveness to the rising security issues in the country.
Reports indicate that U.S. intelligence has been monitoring Senator Umar for potential ties to terrorist groups. It’s alleged that he has funded groups involved in banditry and has sent individuals to Mecca for pilgrimage.
In September 2025, a group called Northern Youth For Peace and Progress submitted a petition to Senate President Akpabio, urging for Umar’s removal. The group’s coordinator, Comrade Hassan Sadau, expressed serious worries about the senator’s supposed involvement in the ongoing security crisis in the region.
The motion to remove Umar, as well as Senator Godiya Akwashiki from Security Intelligence, was brought forward by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele. While progress is being made, there’s recognition that the pace needs to quicken when addressing such critical security matters.
