Barr. Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), on Friday defended the construction of residential houses for judges and justices in Abuja, dismissing concerns that the projects could undermine judicial independence.
Wike made the remarks after inspecting ongoing judicial infrastructure projects, including judges’ quarters, the Court of Appeal Abuja Division, and proposed residential developments for judges of the National Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
His comments followed criticisms reportedly raised by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) over executive involvement in providing infrastructure for the judiciary.
Rejecting the concerns, the minister argued that government provision of facilities for judicial officers was neither new nor a threat to the autonomy of the judiciary.
“The mere fact that the executive constructs buildings does not mean it will interfere with the judiciary,” he said.
“We have built public housing for the National Assembly and the judiciary before. The Supreme Court was built by government, so there is nothing new in this.”
Wike accused the NBA leadership of inconsistency, alleging that the association often sought financial support from state governments for its conferences and activities while criticising government interventions in the judiciary.
“All they are interested in is when state governments will sponsor NBA activities. If governments fund their conferences, does that mean they are no longer independent?” he queried.
He maintained that the FCT Administration would remain committed to implementing projects aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of judges and justices.
“This is a voluntary act by government to make judicial officers comfortable and focused on their work. It is not done to erode judicial independence,” the minister added.
Wike said the projects formed part of activities lined up to mark President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.
He expressed satisfaction with the level of completion of the judges’ quarters, describing the project as well executed and almost ready for inauguration.
“We have seen the judges’ quarters. They are beautiful, and I am very pleased that the work was done well. The houses are well furnished and almost 99 per cent ready,” he stated.
The minister also disclosed that preparations had commenced for the groundbreaking ceremony of residences for judges of the National Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
However, he expressed dissatisfaction with aspects of the finishing work at the Court of Appeal Abuja Division project despite its advanced stage of completion.
“It is almost 90 per cent complete, but I must say it is not the quality I expected. I have told the contractor that several errors must be corrected before inauguration,” he said.
Wike assured that the administration would continue monitoring contractors to ensure all projects were delivered according to specifications and within schedule.
“All the promises that have been made, we are going to fulfil them. That is why we are going around to inspect and ensure contractors are ready,” he added.
