FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, has defended the construction of residential houses for judges and justices in Abuja, dismissing concerns that the projects could undermine the independence of the judiciary.
Wike made the remarks on Friday after inspecting ongoing judicial infrastructure projects, including judges’ residences, the Court of Appeal Abuja Division, and proposed housing projects for judges of the Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
His comments come amid reported criticism from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) over executive involvement in providing infrastructure for the judiciary.
Responding to the concerns, Wike insisted that such interventions were not new and do not interfere with judicial independence.
“The mere fact that the executive constructs buildings does not mean it will interfere with the judiciary.
“We have built public houses for the National Assembly and for the judiciary before. The Supreme Court was built by government. So there is nothing new in this,” he said.
Wike also criticised the NBA leadership, accusing it of inconsistency in its stance, particularly over its reliance on government support for its programmes while questioning executive projects.
“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 Federal Capital Territory Administration would continue with projects aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers.
“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 are part of activities marking 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 nearly ready for commissioning.
“We’ve seen the judges’ quarters beautiful. I’m very elated that the job was done well. The houses are well furnished and almost 99 per cent ready,” he stated.
The minister also revealed that preparations were underway for the groundbreaking of residences for judges of the Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
However, he expressed dissatisfaction with parts of the Court of Appeal Abuja Division project, despite its advanced stage.
“Almost 90 per cent complete, but I must say it’s 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 to monitor contractors closely to ensure timely and quality delivery of all projects.
“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.
