Prominent human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has expressed strong opposition to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike’s recent gifts of houses and cars to judges, describing the gesture as inappropriate and unethical. This development follows Wike’s October launch of the design and construction of 40 Judges’ Quarters in the Katampe District of Abuja, which has sparked significant public controversy.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Falana argued that it is improper for the executive arm of government to provide such benefits to members of the judiciary. He emphasized that such actions could compromise the independence of the judiciary and raise questions about the principle of equality before the law.
“The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory operates like a state governor by virtue of Section 299 of the Constitution,” Falana stated. “So, he cannot say, ‘I am going to build 40 houses, 10 shall go to the Federal High Court, 10 shall go to judges in the FCT High Court, and 10 shall go to the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court.’ No. Because you are a minister of the Federal Government, like a state governor, your budget is limited to the affairs of the FCT.”
Falana further noted that Wike’s actions blur the boundaries between the executive and judiciary, especially given that the FCT Minister, as head of the territory, often has cases pending before these courts. “On the theory of equality before the court, you cannot be seen to be giving cars or houses to the judges who are going to determine your cases,” he added.
The senior lawyer underscored the importance of judicial autonomy, which is constitutionally guaranteed. He argued that the judiciary has no business relying on the executive for houses or cars, as the Constitution provides financial autonomy that allows the judiciary to manage its budget independently.
Falana also criticized Wike for his approach to demolishing private properties in the FCT, describing it as primitive and a violation of the law. He explained that the Urban and Regional Planning Act applicable in the FCT outlines a specific procedure for addressing breaches of planning laws.
“In the FCT, if a house has breached the law, the case must first be taken to the Urban and Regional Planning Board. If the property owner loses, they can appeal to the Urban and Regional Tribunal. If that fails, the case may go to the High Court, where an order for demolition may be issued,” Falana explained.
In his view, the ongoing demolitions bypass these lawful procedures, undermining due process and citizens’ rights.
