President Tinubu Behind Judges' Housing Initiative, Not My Decision - Wike
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has stated that providing housing for Nigerian judges in Abuja is part of President Bola Tinubu’s policy, not his personal initiative. Speaking on Wednesday during a media chat, Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, dismissed claims that the housing initiative is a tactic to gain political favor from the judiciary.
Wike explained that the housing project is part of the 2024 national budget and that his responsibility is to oversee its implementation. He said President Tinubu initiated the program to bolster judicial independence, noting the president’s concern that judges without secure housing may be susceptible to political influence.
Quoting Tinubu, Wike shared, “‘Where are the judges living? They have no homes, and that makes them vulnerable to political manipulation. As a president who values judicial independence, I believe judges must have their own homes.’”
Wike clarified that his role is solely to implement this policy, which has been approved by the National Assembly and formalized in the 2024 budget. “This is not a personal decision; it’s law, part of the approved budget. I am simply following the directive to ensure that judges currently living in rented accommodations are moved to secure, appropriate housing,” he said.
He added that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the construction of judges’ quarters and emphasized that even if the initiative had originated from him, it would be a legitimate move to protect judicial integrity—a practice he had also pursued as Rivers State governor.
Responding to critics, particularly within the legal profession, Wike expressed that the project should be viewed positively as a step toward safeguarding the judiciary's independence and integrity.
Comments