The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has responded to critics who accuse him of attempting to influence the judiciary through the construction of housing for judges and justices in the FCT.
Wike made the remarks during an inspection of the ongoing development of Judges’ Quarters and the access road from Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway to the quarters in Katampe District, Abuja, on Friday.
Wike dismissed the criticisms, stating that he was unconcerned by the allegations, according to Politics Nigeria.
The minister further emphasized that such critics often fail to take action themselves.
In addition to the Judges’ Quarters, Wike also inspected the ongoing extension of Obafemi Awolowo Way from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III.
On October 21, the minister inaugurated the construction of 40 housing units for judicial officers from the Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, and FCT High Court. The project has sparked criticism, with some Nigerians suggesting that it could be an attempt to influence the judiciary.
Wike reiterated that the primary responsibility of the President Bola Tinubu-led administration was to improve the lives of Nigerians. He expressed that the appreciation from residents for the government’s efforts was a source of motivation to work even harder.
“Who are those criticising? I don’t think of that; I am not bothered,” Wike said. “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 added, “These are people who, even when you give them the opportunity, they cannot do anything. So, forget about those criticisms.”
“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.”
“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.”
“So, I’m not bothered about the so-called criticism. It does not exist where I am.”
