Abuja: The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, stated that President Bola Tinubu’s support for the judiciary and other branches of government is essential. Wike conveyed these remarks following an inspection of the construction sites for the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal in Daki Biyu and the Judges’ Quarters in Katampe, Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Wike highlighted that President Tinubu has instructed the FCT Administration to address the accommodation challenges faced by judges and to enhance their working environment. The President has shown specific concern for the welfare of the judiciary and the conditions in which judicial officers perform their duties.
Wike expressed satisfaction with the progress of the Abuja Court of Appeal complex, noting it is between 85 and 90 percent complete and is slated for inauguration during President Tinubu’s third year in office. At the Judges’ Quarters, Wike mentioned that the President personally intervened to resolve accommodation issues, emphasizing his dedication to the judiciary’s welfare.
The housing units are allocated to judges from the FCT High Court, the Court of Appeal, and the Federal High Court, with plans to extend this intervention to the National Industrial Court. Wike noted that this significant step marks the first time any government has intervened in such a manner, ensuring judges are provided with suitable accommodations.
Wike added that the judiciary will no longer have to rent houses, as they now have their own accommodations located in a conducive environment. The project includes residences for the heads of various courts, such as the President of the Court of Appeal, the President of the Industrial Court, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, and the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court.
The minister expressed confidence that the project will be completed and ready for inauguration between June and July. He emphasized that this development strengthens the independence of the judiciary and provides housing for court heads upon retirement.
Wike dismissed criticisms suggesting that the initiative aims to influence the judiciary, asserting that criticisms will always exist regardless of government actions. He reiterated the dependency of all government branches on the executive for effective functioning and funding, underscoring the importance of providing suitable accommodations for judges to perform their duties effectively.