Wike Defends Judges’ Housing Projects, Dismisses NBA Criticism
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended the ongoing construction of government-funded housing projects for judges and justices in Abuja, insisting that the initiative does not threaten judicial independence as alleged by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
Wike made the remarks while inspecting judicial infrastructure projects in the nation’s capital, following criticism from the NBA over the involvement of the executive arm in providing welfare packages for members of the judiciary.
According to the former Rivers State governor, the provision of housing and infrastructure for judicial officers is not a new development in Nigeria. He noted that successive administrations have over the years funded the construction of courts, judges’ quarters, and other major judicial facilities, including the Supreme Court complex, without any claims of interference in judicial activities.
The FCT Minister maintained that the housing projects are strictly aimed at improving the welfare, comfort, and working conditions of judges and justices, stressing that the initiative should not be politicized.
Wike also accused the NBA of double standards, arguing that the association frequently seeks financial support and sponsorship from governments for its annual conferences and activities, yet criticizes similar government interventions targeted at the judiciary.
He questioned why the provision of decent accommodation for judicial officers should suddenly become controversial when previous governments had undertaken similar projects without public outrage.
The controversy began after NBA President, Afam Osigwe, expressed concerns that politicians building houses or offering gifts to judges could create a perception of closeness between the judiciary and the executive arm of government.
Osigwe warned that such actions may weaken public confidence in the independence and neutrality of the judiciary, especially in politically sensitive cases.
However, Wike dismissed the criticism, insisting that no judge would compromise his or her integrity because of government-provided housing.
He further revealed that the projects form part of activities lined up to mark the third anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, adding that several of the judges’ quarters are nearing completion and would soon be inaugurated.
The debate has continued to generate reactions among legal practitioners, political observers, and members of the public, with many divided over whether executive-sponsored welfare projects for judges strengthen the judiciary or pose a threat to its independence.
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