Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, criticized the recent decision by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike to build homes for judges, raising ethical concerns about the executive offering gifts to judiciary members. Falana argued that such actions could compromise judicial independence, especially since cases involving the government might appear before these courts. He noted that the judiciary’s financial autonomy, protected by the Constitution, is intended to avoid reliance on executive provisions for personal benefits.
In response, Wike clarified that the housing initiative was introduced by President Bola Tinubu to secure appropriate living conditions for judges and protect them from external pressures. “The President said, ‘Judges must have their homes,’” Wike emphasized, explaining that he is simply implementing a policy approved in the 2024 budget, ratified by the National Assembly, and endorsed by the Federal Executive Council. Wike expressed disappointment over the backlash, arguing that the project is a lawful effort to enhance judicial welfare.
