Wike Dismisses NBA Criticism of Judicial Housing Projects
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Friday rejected criticisms from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) regarding the construction of residential quarters for judges and justices. He insisted that these projects would not compromise the independence of the judiciary.
During an inspection of ongoing judicial projects in Abuja, Wike specifically criticized the NBA leadership for questioning the motive behind the intervention, labeling the criticism as unfortunate and hypocritical. He emphasized that providing official residences for judicial officers is part of the FCT Administration's efforts to enhance the welfare and working conditions of the judiciary.
Wike noted that the executive arm has historically undertaken numerous projects for the judiciary without any suggestion of interference. He cited the construction of the Supreme Court building as an example. "We have built public houses for both the National Assembly and the judiciary. The Supreme Court was built by us here. So, there is nothing new. The mere fact that the executive constructs does not mean that will lead to interference in the judiciary," he stated.
The minister declared that the FCTA would not be distracted by the NBA's criticisms and remained committed to fulfilling all promises regarding judicial infrastructure in the capital. He accused the NBA of double standards, pointing out that the association often seeks financial support from state governments for its conferences and activities, yet raises concerns when the government undertakes welfare projects for judicial officers.
"It is not for the NBA chairman to comment on what the executive is doing. All he is interested in is when they will go and apply for state government to sponsor NBA activities. Is that not interfering?" Wike queried. He argued that if government sponsorship of NBA programs had not affected the association's independence, there is no basis for claims that housing projects for judges would erode judicial autonomy. "If the government—and this is a voluntary act of government—that act would make them not independent, then why has government funding not eroded the independence of the NBA?" he asked.
Wike explained that the FCTA has directed the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to ensure the housing projects are completed, providing judges and justices with conducive accommodation to focus on their duties.
The NBA, through its President Afam Osigwe, had strongly criticized the construction and gifting of residential quarters to judges by the executive, particularly in the FCT. The NBA argues this practice erodes judicial independence and integrity, portraying judges as beneficiaries of political patronage. Osigwe stated last Monday (April 2026) that having politicians build houses or gift cars to judges creates a "terrible perception" of closeness between the executive and judiciary, undermining public trust. The NBA argued that if judges need housing, the funds should be included in the judicial budget rather than provided via politicians, which makes judges appear to be "doing the executive a favor" by accepting them.
This criticism follows projects led by Wike, who in late 2024 began construction on 40 judges' quarters in Abuja, clarifying that these properties would belong to the judges upon retirement. During the minister's inspection on Friday, he expressed satisfaction with the progress, describing the quarters as "beautiful" and "well furnished," and noting that the facilities were almost ready for inauguration as part of activities marking President Bola Tinubu's third year in office. He commended the quality of finishing, saying the projects reflected the administration's commitment to quality delivery. The minister also inspected the proposed site for the groundbreaking ceremony of residential quarters for judges of the National Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
