In a bold policy announcement, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that no judge of the FCT High Court will be living in a rented apartment by the end of President Bola Tinubu’s first tenure in office.
Wike made this statement on Monday during the flag-off ceremony for the design and construction of official residences for Heads of Courts in the FCT. He emphasized that the era of judges residing in temporary or rented quarters is over.
“Before the first tenure of Mr President ends, no judge of the FCT High Court will be staying in a rented quarter,” Wike said.
This initiative builds on recent efforts by the Tinubu administration to enhance judicial infrastructure in the capital territory. In September 2025, construction began on new magistrate courts in Jabi, followed by the development of 40 judges’ quarters in Katampe District, launched in November 2024.
Wike clarified that these new homes are not just official residences but permanent properties for the heads of courts, to be retained after their retirement — a move approved by President Tinubu.
“As they retire, the properties become their own. That is the approval of Mr President,” he stated.
“The Seal of Oaths has been issued in their names.”
He also dismissed concerns about executive interference in judicial matters, noting that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) is responsible for constructing public buildings, including judiciary infrastructure.
The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, who was also present at the event, praised the initiative. He said the move would strengthen judicial independence, enhance institutional dignity, and help reduce corruption.
“Even if you accuse the judiciary of corruption, what would they use the money for? Accommodation? It’s already guaranteed,” Fagbemi noted.
He commended President Tinubu and Minister Wike for their commitment to judicial reforms through infrastructural investments.
