THE Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has refuted allegations that the construction of housing for judges in Abuja is intended to influence them for political purposes.
He clarified that the initiative to build homes for judges is not a policy he initiated, but rather part of a welfare program designed by President Bola Tinubu to uphold the independence of the judiciary.
Wike offered this explanation during a media chat today, emphasizing that the project was included in the 2024 budget, and his role is merely to carry out its implementation.
Wike stated: “(Tinubu remarked) ‘Where are the judges living? They lack proper housing and are thus vulnerable to political manipulation. As a president who aims to guarantee the independence of the judiciary, it is essential for judges to have their own homes.’
“I am not the President; I am fortunate to serve as a minister in this administration, tasked with executing his policies. The President has expressed his wishes and directed us to take action.
“This initiative was approved by the President and forwarded to the National Assembly as part of the 2024 budget for the construction of quarters for judges and justices, in order to relocate them from rented homes where they are living in unsafe environments.
“This is a policy that should receive commendation for the President; it is included in the 2024 budget, appropriated by the National Assembly, and signed into law by the President. What is the concern? I am simply here to implement it.
“The Federal Executive Council has approved the contract and all related aspects; this is not my policy, so why would anyone criticize me for acting on what the Federal Government has sanctioned?”
Wike also maintained that even if the idea of building homes for judges were his own, it would not be problematic, noting that he had previously undertaken similar initiatives as the governor of Rivers State.
The former governor expressed disappointment over the criticisms directed at this project, particularly from members of the legal community, rather than receiving praise for the initiative.
