The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended the construction of houses for judges and justices in Abuja, saying it does not threaten the independence of the judiciary.
Wike spoke on Friday after inspecting ongoing judicial projects, including judges’ residences, the Court of Appeal Abuja Division, and planned housing projects for judges of the Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
His comments followed criticism reportedly raised by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), which questioned whether the executive arm of government should provide such facilities for the judiciary.
Responding to the criticism, Wike said there was nothing unusual about government building infrastructure for judges.
According to him, the government has previously built structures for both the judiciary and the National Assembly, including the Supreme Court building.
“The fact that the executive builds houses does not mean it will interfere with the judiciary,” he said.
Wike also accused the NBA leadership of hypocrisy, claiming the association often seeks financial support from state governments for its conferences and activities while criticizing government support for the judiciary.
He insisted that the projects were aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of judges, not influencing their decisions.
The minister said the projects are part of activities marking the third anniversary of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Wike expressed satisfaction with the judges’ quarters project, saying the houses are almost completed and well furnished.
He also revealed that preparations had started for the groundbreaking ceremony of new residences for judges of the Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
However, he criticized some finishing work at the Court of Appeal Abuja Division project, saying the quality was below his expectations and that contractors had been asked to correct the errors before inauguration.
Wike assured that the FCT
Administration would continue monitoring contractors to ensure all projects are completed according to standard and on schedule.
