Senior Advocate of Nigeria and human rights lawyer Femi Falana has criticized Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike’s decision to provide housing for judges, which Wike launched in October as part of a project to build 40 judges’ residences in Abuja’s Katampe District.
The move has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that such provisions by the executive for judicial officials may be inappropriate.
Appearing on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, Falana argued that it is improper for the executive branch to offer gifts, including housing, to judges.
He noted that as FCT Minister, Wike functions like a state governor under Section 299 of the Constitution.
Therefore, Falana asserted, Wike should not distribute housing intended for federal judges across various courts.
Falana explained, “The FCT minister, akin to a state governor, is restricted to budgetary matters related to the FCT. He cannot provide cars or housing to judges in the federal high court, court of appeal, or supreme court.”
Falana emphasized that giving such benefits to judges could lead to conflicts of interest, particularly when cases involving the FCT are brought before these courts.
“This is why judicial autonomy has been established in the Constitution,” he said, highlighting that the judiciary has its budget and should not rely on the executive for housing or cars.
Additionally, Falana criticized Wike’s demolition of private properties in the FCT, labelling the practice “primitive” and legally unsound.
He argued that the Urban and Regional Planning Act, which applies to the FCT, does not allow for such demolitions without due process.
Falana outlined the process for handling alleged violations of property laws, stating that cases should be brought first to the Urban and Regional Planning Board.
Property owners can appeal any adverse decisions to the Urban and Regional Tribunal and then to the High Court if necessary, which may issue a demolition order only if the appeals fail.