President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening judicial independence through sustained investment in infrastructure, declaring that judges can only dispense justice effectively when they work and live in secure, dignified and conducive environments.
Represented by the attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice, Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi (SAN), the President spoke yesterday at the commissioning of the newly completed 20-unit residential quarters for judges of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Katampe District, Abuja.
The project is the latest in a series of judicial infrastructure initiatives executed by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) under FCT minister, Nyesom Wike as part of activities marking Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.
Describing the event as the 26th day of continuous commissioning of projects in the FCT, Tinubu said the housing project was not merely the unveiling of another public facility but a deliberate investment in one of the most critical institutions of democracy.
“Today’s event is not merely the unveiling of another building. It is a testament to a deliberate and sustained commitment to strengthening one of the vital pillars of our democracy, that is, the judiciary,” he said.
The President recalled that under the Renewed Hope Agenda, his administration pledged to rebuild public institutions, restore confidence in governance and strengthen the rule of law.
“When we embarked on the Renewed Hope Agenda three years ago, we promised to rebuild institutional trust, secure our nation and ensure that the rule of law is neither compromised nor delayed.
“Today, with the commissioning of these 20 units of FCT High Court Judges’ Quarters, we take another definitive, tangible step towards fulfilling that promise,” he stated.
Tinubu noted that the project forms part of a wider programme that has already delivered 10 residential units each for judges of the Court of Appeal and the Federal High Court, as well as accommodation for staff of the Nigerian Law School.
He added that construction had also commenced on residential quarters for judges of the National Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
Responding to criticisms that the provision of official residences for judges could compromise judicial independence, the President dismissed the claims as unfounded.
“I am aware of media commentary suggesting that the FCT Administration’s provision of judges’ quarters is intended to exert improper influence on the judiciary. I ask simply, did those same critics level that charge against the staff quarters recently commissioned for lecturers of the Nigerian Law School?” he queried.
According to him, the projects have no connection with the judiciary’s budget, which remains intact, but are intervention programmes aimed at improving the welfare and efficiency of judicial officers.
“The real question is what kind of influence these facilities are meant to inspire. Comfort frees our judicial officers to focus on their solemn duties, preserve the rule of law, adjudicate without discomfort, and enjoy the fulfillment and security that allow them to give their very best to the nation,” he said.
He stressed that judicial independence extends beyond constitutional guarantees.
“We often speak of judicial independence in abstract terms, but independent thinking requires an independent and secure environment. We cannot expect judges to dispense justice without fear or favour if their basic comfort, security and peace of mind are left to chance,” he said.
The President commended FCT Minister, Wike for transforming Abuja through the execution of critical infrastructure projects.
“Transforming Abuja into a capital that reflects our national ambition is a demanding task. Through steady execution and close attention to detail, the Honourable Minister and his team have turned plans into structures that serve our judges, our citizens and the future of this city,” he said.
He also praised the cordial relationship between the executive and the judiciary, describing it as a model of cooperation for national development.
Addressing the beneficiaries, Tinubu urged the judges to remain steadfast in their constitutional responsibilities.
“As we provide infrastructure to make your lives easier and your service safer, we only ask in return for your unwavering commitment to the swift, fair and transparent dispensation of justice, not favour for government undeservedly. Let these quarters be centres of deep reflection, integrity and honour,” he said.