Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the criticisms surrounding his administration’s ongoing construction of housing units for judges in Abuja.
The project, which is set to provide housing for judges and justices of various courts, has come under fire from some Nigerians, who argue that it may be an attempt to influence the judiciary.
But Wike is not shaken by these accusations. During a site inspection on Friday, he made it clear that he was not concerned about the ongoing criticism.
“I don’t think of that; I am not bothered,” Wike said, pointing out that his actions had received official approval from both the National Assembly and the relevant authorities.
The project, located in the Katampe District, involves the construction of 40 housing units for judges from the Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, and the FCT High Court.
Wike’s government had already begun work on the project, which is expected to be completed soon. In addition to the housing, there are also infrastructure developments, including an access road to the quarters from the Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway.
However, the project has been met with sharp criticism, with detractors claiming it could compromise the independence of the judiciary. They argue that providing housing for judges may be seen as a gesture that could influence their decision-making.
But Wike is resolute. “Once you have a provisional approval to go ahead and the backing of the National Assembly, what’s my business with those who are criticising?” he said. “These are people who, even when you give them the opportunity, they cannot do anything.”
The former governor of Rivers State has long been a polarizing figure, known for his outspoken style and bold actions. Despite the criticism, Wike’s stance remains firm.
He emphasized that the housing project was in line with his administration’s commitment to improving the working environment for judges, which he believes will enable them to perform their duties more effectively.
“If you have not done it, they are the ones that will complain that the environment in which our judges and justices are working is not conducive,” Wike said, dismissing the criticism as unfounded.
For him, the priority is providing the judiciary with the necessary infrastructure to ensure a functional and productive environment. “Now we are trying to provide an environment that will make them work well. They are saying oh! And given another reason. Don’t bother yourself, just move on and do your work,” he stated.
Wike also praised the progress of other projects within the FCT, including the construction of Obafemi Awolowo Way, which will link Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III. He commended the contractors involved in these projects for maintaining high standards, despite challenges.
On job creation, Wike highlighted the success of the ongoing infrastructure projects in providing employment opportunities. He explained that the Tinubu administration is committed to creating jobs not only through government employment but also by supporting the private sector.
He emphasized that thousands of youths have been employed across various construction projects in the FCT, stating that “Nothing makes us happy than that people are happy; that we are delivering the dividends of a democracy.”
Wike’s confidence comes from the support he has received from the Federal Government and the National Assembly, which has approved and backed many of his projects. This collaboration, he believes, is crucial to the success of the FCT’s ongoing development.
“We are executing several projects in the city center and satellite towns at the same time, and we are recording results because of teamwork and support from President Bola Tinubu,” he explained.
