The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has assured that by 2027, no judge of the FCT High Court will be living in a rented apartment.
Wike made the statement on Monday during the flag-off ceremony for the design and construction of official residences for the Heads of Courts of the FCT in Abuja. He said President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to improving the welfare of judicial officers and ending the era of judges living in rented homes across the capital city.
> “Before the end of Mr President’s first tenure, no judge of the FCT High Court will be living in a rented quarter,” Wike said. “I didn’t say Federal High Court or National Industrial Court, but FCT High Court.”
According to Mediaplusng.com, Wike explained that the housing project is part of the approved 2024 and 2025 FCT budgets, which have been passed by the National Assembly and signed by President Tinubu. He added that the initiative aligns with the President’s directive to enhance the welfare and performance of judicial officers.
The minister noted that living in rented homes exposes judges to security risks, especially those handling sensitive or criminal cases.
> “Sometimes you don’t even know your landlord or neighbors. Judges preside over serious matters, and you can never tell what might happen,” he said.
Wike also revealed that the new houses being built 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,” he confirmed.
He stated that Certificates of Occupancy had already been issued in the names of the respective beneficiaries. 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.
Wike clarified that the FCT Administration’s involvement in the project does not mean executive interference, noting that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) is responsible for constructing public buildings as part of its mandate.
The new initiative builds on previous housing developments, including 40 judges’ quarters in Katampe District and new magistrate courts in Jabi.
The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, praised the effort, describing it as a major step toward ensuring judicial independence.
> “The provision of secure and befitting accommodation will enhance the operational independence and dignity of the judiciary,” Fagbemi said.
He added that comfortable housing reduces the temptation of corruption among judicial officers.
> “Even if you accuse the judiciary of corruption, what will they use the money for? Accommodation? It’s already guaranteed,” he said.
According to Mediaplusng.com, both ministers reaffirmed that the Tinubu administration remains committed to institutional reform, judicial independence, and infrastructural development that supports justice delivery in Nigeria.
