Wike Denies Allegations of Judiciary Influence Through Housing Programme for Judges

By MUHAMMED DANBABA

Abuja, Nigeria — Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has refuted claims that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is seeking to control the judiciary by providing housing accommodations for judges. Addressing a media chat in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike clarified that the decision aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare and independence of the judicial system.

Housing Project for Judges: Ensuring Judicial Independence

According to Wike, the initiative is part of the 2024 budget approved by the National Assembly, aimed at bolstering judicial independence by improving the living conditions of judges, who currently lack permanent housing. He explained that the policy stems from Tinubu’s vision of a judiciary free from external influence, with judges living in secure, government-provided accommodations.

“Tinubu said, ‘Where are the judges living? They have no homes and are therefore open to political manipulation. As a president who values judicial independence, judges must have their own homes,’” Wike shared, emphasizing that his role is simply to execute Tinubu’s policies.

FCT Minister Responds to Criticism

Wike rejected accusations from opposition members who suggest the housing project is a political strategy to sway judicial loyalty. He underscored that the initiative has already been approved and appropriated in the 2024 budget, signed into law by Tinubu himself.

“It is in the 2024 budget, appropriated by the National Assembly, assented to by Mr. President, which is now law,” Wike stated. “I’m only the implementer. How is it my fault for carrying out a government-approved policy?”

Wike also referenced his record as a former governor, noting that he had implemented similar policies to support the judiciary.

Wike Criticizes PDP’s Bala Mohammed

The FCT Minister addressed criticism from Senator Bala Mohammed, Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, claiming Mohammed’s objections are rooted in previous political differences. Wike alleged that Mohammed’s opposition stems from personal frustrations after failing to consolidate control within the PDP’s leadership.

This development comes as the Tinubu administration emphasizes policies aimed at judicial reform and independence, with the housing initiative for judges expected to improve working conditions for Nigeria’s judiciary.