By

Chinenye Chukwuma

Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has stirred controversy with his proposal to construct 40 housing units for judges in Abuja. The project, expected to be completed within 15 months and already 70% funded, is part of efforts to enhance judicial welfare and independence under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, according to Wike.

However, critics, including the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), have raised concerns about the plan. They argue it poses a conflict of interest and threatens the judiciary’s independence.

SERAP and HURIWA view the gesture as an attempt to influence the judiciary, with implications for the separation of powers and impartiality of the judicial system.

The debate underscores broader concerns about safeguarding judicial independence in Nigeria and ensuring that welfare initiatives do not undermine the principle of checks and balances in governance.