Wike Prioritizes Judges’ Welfare, Flags Off Construction Of 3 Magistrate Courts

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT),Dr Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to addressing the welfare and accommodation challenges confronting the judiciary in Abuja.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony of new magistrate court complexes in Jabi, Asokoro, and Garki districts, Wike said President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda recognizes that the quick dispensation of justice is impossible without providing judges and magistrates with a conducive working and living environment.

He pledged that before the end of President Tinubu’s first tenure, at least 80 percent of accommodation issues facing judges and magistrates in the territory would be resolved.

According to him, by October this year, 20 units of duplexes will be handed over to the FCT High Court, while another 30 units will be delivered by June next year.

“You cannot talk about fighting corruption if you do not provide the right environment for judges and magistrates, or take care of their welfare.

“Sometimes, the conditions under which they sit in court are very embarrassing. We must provide them with proper offices and court halls if we want them to function effectively,” Wike stated.

The minister lamented that some judicial officers currently reside in rented apartments, exposing them to harassment from landlords and even cohabitation with individuals whose cases they adjudicate. “That cannot continue. We must guarantee their safety and dignity,” he stressed.

He also disclosed that the FCT Administration is introducing an Information Technology (IT) system to phase out manual court records, which he described as “tedious and time-consuming.” The system, he said, will modernize proceedings and enhance judicial efficiency.

Wike emphasized that the FCDA has always been responsible for providing public buildings in Abuja, from the Supreme Court to INEC, adding that the current projects are a continuation of that mandate.

He commended the judiciary for its partnership, which he noted has contributed to improved revenue generation in the FCT, and urged them not to relent in supporting the administration.

Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the FCDA explained that the Jabi project is part of three new magistrate court complexes designed to expand access to justice in the FCT.

The facilities, which will include courtrooms, magistrates’ chambers, a library, offices, and supporting infrastructure, are expected to decongest existing courts and improve legal service delivery.

According to him, the projects will not only strengthen the rule of law and boost economic activities but also create job opportunities during construction.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji