Judiciary Deserves Executive Support, Tinubu Means Well – Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary, describing ongoing interventions as a deliberate effort to support democracy and improve judicial independence.

The Minister stated this during an inspection of the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal under construction at Daki-Biyu and judges’ residential quarters in Katampe District.

Wike explained that the judiciary, as a critical arm of government, depends largely on the executive for funding and infrastructure, stressing that democracy cannot thrive without a strong and well-supported judicial system.

“Every arm of government depends on the executive to provide funds. So, even if for example, you give them the funds directly, you are the ones still providing the funds. Mr. President means well for the judicial arm of government which is very, very key.” Wike said.

According to Wike, “You cannot talk about democracy without talking about the judiciary. You can’t talk about them doing their work when they cannot have befitting places to stay.”

At the Daki-Biyu site, the Minister disclosed that the Court of Appeal complex is near completion, noting that the project is about 85 to 90 percent ready.

Following the court inspection, Wike visited the judges’ quarters in Katampe District, where 40 residential houses are being constructed to ease accommodation challenges faced by judicial officers.

He said the houses are designated for judges of the FCT High Court, Court of Appeal, and Federal High Court, with plans also underway for the National Industrial Court.

Highlighting the importance of security and welfare, Wike noted that many judges currently live among unknown neighbours, sometimes including individuals standing trial before them.

He said the new quarters would provide a safe, decent, and professional living environment, eliminating the need for judges to rent private residences.

The Minister also inspected the “House of Courts” project, which includes official residences for heads of courts such as the President of the Court of Appeal and Chief Judges of key courts.

He described the development as unprecedented, saying, “It has never happened in the history of this country where Heads of Courts are being given houses on their retirements.”

Addressing concerns that the projects could compromise judicial independence, Wike dismissed such claims, insisting that critics would always find fault.

“Before now, they said judges have nowhere to stay… now you are providing it, it becomes an attempt to buy them. How many people can you buy over?” Wike asked.

He expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, stating that most of the projects are expected to be completed and handed over to President Tinubu by June or July for formal presentation to the judiciary.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji