Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended the construction of judges’ quarters in Abuja, insisting the project is designed to improve the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers and not to influence their decisions.
Wike made the clarification during his monthly live media chat, where he explained that providing decent accommodation and facilities for judges is part of broader efforts to strengthen public institutions and enhance service delivery.
According to him, similar infrastructure support has been extended to other arms of government, including the legislature, security agencies, and electoral bodies, as part of governance responsibilities.
“The essence is to provide what will enable the judiciary to perform effectively without complaints. Welfare is important, and the working environment is equally critical,” he said.
He questioned the adequacy of existing working conditions for judicial officers, arguing that a poor environment can negatively affect productivity.
“Is this the kind of office the judiciary should have? Regardless of how much money is allocated, if people work in a conducive environment, they are more likely to give their best,” Wike said.
He added that government investment in infrastructure for institutions such as the National Assembly, police, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is intended to support effective governance and justice delivery.
“When we build facilities for the National Assembly, what is the purpose? When we provide infrastructure for the police, what is the purpose? When we support INEC, what is the purpose?” he asked.
Wike also cited his past experience as governor, recalling poor court facilities he encountered in Cross River State, where judicial proceedings were sometimes affected by inadequate infrastructure.
He further noted that in Rivers State, industrial cases were previously heard in Bayelsa State due to the absence of proper court infrastructure, adding that his administration intervened to improve judicial facilities and reduce such challenges.
According to him, the provision of befitting court environments is essential to ensuring efficient justice delivery across the country.
