Wike: No FCT Judge Will Live in Rented Apartment by 2027

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has assured that by the end of President Bola Tinubu’s first tenure, no judge serving under the FCT judiciary will be living in a rented apartment.

Wike made the remark on Monday during the flag-off ceremony for the design and construction of official residences for the heads of courts in the FCT. He said the project marks a significant step toward improving the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers in the capital.

Improving Judicial Welfare

The minister said the initiative reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of the judiciary and the independence of the justice system. He explained that before the end of 2027, judges of the FCT High Court would all have government-provided residences, ending the long-standing practice of judicial officers renting accommodation within the city.

The project comes after the construction of new magistrate courts in Jabi, which began in September 2025, and the development of 40 residential quarters for judges in Katampe District, launched in November 2024. These developments, according to Wike, demonstrate continuity in the FCT administration’s support for the judiciary.

Wike emphasized that providing houses for judges does not amount to interference in judicial affairs. He said the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) is constitutionally responsible for public infrastructure and will continue to play that role in ensuring a functional and dignified judiciary.

Homes for Retiring Judges

Wike clarified that the new residences are not just temporary benefits for those currently serving as heads of courts. Once they retire, the properties will become theirs—a policy he said was approved by President Tinubu to honour their service.

He explained that the initiative covers the heads of key judicial institutions, including the President of the Court of Appeal, the Chief Judges of both the Federal and FCT High Courts, and the Judge of the National Industrial Court. Each of them, upon retirement, will take ownership of the houses constructed for them.

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According to him, this decision is backed by formal documentation, with the Seal of Oaths issued in their names to confirm ownership rights.

Wike added that this measure is part of the Tinubu administration’s broader effort to promote institutional respect, security, and stability within the judiciary, ensuring that judicial officers can work without distraction or financial anxiety.

Ensuring Dignity and Independence

In his remarks, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, said the provision of accommodation for heads of court would enhance the judiciary’s operational independence and institutional dignity.

He noted that decent and secure housing would help judicial officers focus on their duties without concern for personal welfare, ultimately strengthening public trust in the justice system.

Fagbemi added that with accommodation no longer a concern, allegations of corruption linked to personal welfare could be reduced. He commended President Tinubu and Minister Wike for prioritising judicial independence and infrastructure development.

He described the initiative as a crucial investment in Nigeria’s justice system, one that reflects a deeper understanding of how welfare, independence, and institutional integrity work together to build a more effective judiciary.