Wike Clarifies: Building Houses for Judges is Tinubu’s Policy; My Role is Implementation

In response to criticisms, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike has refuted claims that building residences for judges in Abuja is a tactic to influence the judiciary. He clarified that the housing project is not his personal initiative but rather a policy set forth by President Bola Tinubu to support judicial independence.

Wike addressed the controversy during a media chat on Wednesday, explaining that the initiative, approved in the 2024 national budget, aims to improve judges’ welfare and provide them secure and stable accommodations. This project, Wike stressed, is intended to prevent judges from being vulnerable to political manipulation due to insecure or temporary housing situations.

According to Wike, the President’s policy emerged from concerns about judges lacking adequate housing, making them susceptible to undue influences. “The President said, ‘Where are the judges living? They have no homes and therefore are open to political manipulation. For me, as a president who wants to guarantee the independence of the judiciary, judges must have their homes,’” Wike recounted.

Highlighting his position as an implementer, Wike stated, “I am not Mr. President; I am simply fortunate to serve as a minister under this administration, tasked with carrying out his policies. The project was part of the 2024 budget submitted by Mr. President, approved by the National Assembly, and signed into law.”

He further emphasized that the Federal Executive Council had approved the contracts associated with this housing development, underscoring that it is a national policy initiative, not a personal agenda.

Wike noted that he had previously implemented similar housing initiatives for judges during his tenure as Governor of Rivers State. He expressed disappointment over the lack of support for this project, particularly from members of the legal community, whom he hoped would commend the government’s efforts to secure the judiciary’s independence.

The minister dismissed accusations suggesting any political motive, describing the project as a much-needed investment in judicial welfare.