The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has assured that by the conclusion of President Bola Tinubu’s initial term, every judge of the FCT High Court will have their own residence, eliminating the need for rented accommodations.
Wike delivered this promise on Monday, October 13, at the launch ceremony for the design and construction of official residences for the Heads of Courts in Abuja. He emphasized that this project demonstrates President Tinubu’s dedication to enhancing the welfare and working environment of judicial officers.
“Before the end of Mr President’s first tenure, no judge of the FCT High Court will be living in a rented quarter,” Wike declared. “I didn’t say Federal High Court, I didn’t say National Industrial Court — but judges of the FCT High Court.”
He clarified that the housing initiative is incorporated into the 2024 and 2025 FCT budgets, which have received approval from the National Assembly and have been signed into law by President Tinubu.
Wike noted that the president has consistently prioritized judicial support as a cornerstone of his administration. “Mr President told us that enhancing the welfare of judicial officers has been a major concern,” he stated. “I told him the difference his government must make is to end the practice of judges living in rented houses.”
The minister highlighted the potential dangers judges face when living in rented properties, given the sensitive and prominent nature of their cases. “Sometimes you don’t even know your landlord or neighbours. These judges preside over serious matters, and you can never tell what might happen,” he cautioned.
Wike also disclosed that the newly built residences will be transferred to the judges as their personal property upon retirement. “As they retire, the properties become their own. That is the approval of Mr President,” he affirmed, noting that Certificates of Occupancy have already been issued in the names of the beneficiaries.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
