Wike Vows to End Judges’ Rent Era by 2027

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has pledged that no judge of the FCT High Court will be living in rented accommodation by 2027, as the government begins the construction of new official residences for judicial officers in Abuja.

Wike made the assurance on Monday during the flag-off ceremony for the design and construction of official houses for Heads of Courts in the FCT, emphasising President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to improving judicial welfare.

"Before the end of Mr President’s first tenure, no judge of the FCT High Court will be staying in a rented quarter. This is not about Federal High Court or National Industrial Court, but strictly FCT High Court judges," Wike said.

According to the Minister, the housing projects are captured in the 2024 and 2025 FCT budgets, already approved by the National Assembly and assented to by President Tinubu. 

According to him, the initiative stemmed from the President’s directive to prioritise the welfare and security of judicial officers.

Wike warned that judges living in rented apartments face potential risks, given the sensitive nature of cases they handle. 

"Sometimes, you don’t even know the landlord or neighbours. These judges preside over serious matters, and you can never tell what might happen," he said.

He disclosed that the residences being constructed for the Heads of Courts will become their personal property upon retirement. 

"As they retire, the properties become their own. That is the approval of Mr President," Wike added, confirming that Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) have already been issued in the beneficiaries’ names.

The beneficiaries include the President of the Court of Appeal, the Chief Judges of the Federal and FCT High Courts, and the Judge of the National Industrial Court.

The latest housing initiative follows earlier projects, including 40 judges’ quarters in Katampe District and new magistrates’ courts in Jabi.

Wike clarified that the FCT Administration’s role in the project does not infringe on judicial independence.

"The Federal Capital Development Authority is responsible for constructing public buildings in the FCT. This is part of our mandate," he said.

The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, hailed the project as a major achievement towards strengthening judicial independence.

"The provision of secure and befitting accommodation will enhance the operational independence and dignity of the judiciary. Even if you accuse the judiciary of corruption, what will they use the money for? Accommodation? It’s already guaranteed," Fagbemi said.

Fagbemi also commended President Tinubu and the FCT Administration for prioritising institutional reforms and infrastructure development within the judiciary.