Wike defends judges’ housing projects, dismisses NBA criticism

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has defended the construction of houses for judges and justices in Abuja, insisting that the projects do not threaten judicial independence.

Wike spoke on Friday after inspecting ongoing judicial infrastructure projects, including judges’ residences, the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal, and proposed housing projects for judges of the National Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.

His remarks followed criticisms reportedly raised by the Nigerian Bar Association over executive involvement in providing infrastructure for the judiciary.

Rejecting the concerns, Wike said government provision of facilities for judicial officers was not new and should not be interpreted as interference in the judiciary.

“The mere fact that the executive constructs buildings does not mean it will interfere with the judiciary,” he said.

The minister noted that previous administrations had built facilities for both the National Assembly and the judiciary, including the Supreme Court complex.

Wike also accused the NBA leadership of inconsistency, alleging that the association often sought financial support from state governments for its conferences while criticising government-backed judicial projects.

“If governments fund their conferences, does that mean they are no longer independent?” he queried.

He maintained that the FCT Administration would continue implementing projects aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of judges and justices.

According to him, the projects form part of activities marking the third anniversary of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Wike expressed satisfaction with the level of completion of the judges’ quarters, describing the project as well executed and almost ready for inauguration.

However, he criticised aspects of the finishing work at the Court of Appeal Abuja Division project, despite acknowledging that it was nearing completion.

“Almost 90 per cent complete, but I must say it’s not the quality I expected,” he said, adding that contractors had been directed to correct identified defects before inauguration.

The minister assured that the administration would continue monitoring contractors to ensure projects are delivered according to specifications and within schedule.

Source: Daily Post Nigeria