Wike Affirms Judicial Autonomy Amid Provision of Judges' Housing in FCT

Nyesom Wike, the Minister for the Federal Capital Territory, has addressed criticisms claiming that the government's initiative to provide accommodation for judges threatens the independence of the judiciary.

During a visit on Thursday to the Court of Appeal Division Complex in Daki Biu, as well as to various accommodation projects in Katampe and Asokoro, Wike firmly rebutted these allegations.

He stated, “Let’s proceed with the project. There will always be criticisms, and previously, there was no adequate provision for the judiciary. Critics have noted that judges lacked proper facilities to perform their duties efficiently.”

He further remarked, “Now that we are offering these facilities, some claim it’s an attempt to influence them. It raises the question: how many judges could possibly be swayed? The intent of Mr. President is to support the judiciary, which is an essential component of democracy.”

Wike emphasized the connection between democracy and the judicial system, underlining that judges require suitable accommodations to effectively perform their roles.

“Even if monetary support was provided directly, the executive remains responsible for funding all arms of government. The accusations of attempting to manipulate judges should cease until these provisions are realized,” he stated.

He reiterated that the current administration aims to uplift the judicial sector, highlighting that this commitment marks the first time in Nigeria's history that any government has prioritized the welfare and accommodation needs of judges.

Wike mentioned that the president had entrusted him with the task of establishing a separate administrative headquarters for the Court of Appeal, noting that construction is nearing completion at about 85-90% readiness.

Additionally, he disclosed plans for 40 residential units: 20 for the FCT High Court, 10 for the Court of Appeal, and another 10 for the Federal High Court. He also affirmed that the Industrial Court's housing project would commence shortly.

He anticipates that the president will officiate the commissioning of these projects come June or July, remarking that this initiative is unprecedented, as judges have traditionally not been provided with housing upon retirement.