The housing project, aimed at providing accommodations for judicial officers from the Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, and FCT High Court, has drawn backlash from several civil society groups and legal experts. Wike announced that 70% of the project’s budget, which also covers furnishings, has been allocated, and the project is expected to be completed in 15 months.

Wike defended the move, emphasizing that it is part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to enhance the welfare of judicial officers. He argued that providing housing for judges would protect their independence, insulate them from external pressures, and allow them to carry out their duties without fear of interference.

However, the gesture has raised concerns. The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) criticized the plan, accusing Wike and state governors of undermining the National Judicial Council (NJC) by providing such perks to judges. According to SERAP, this practice erodes the judiciary’s independence and risks politicizing its role.

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) condemned the initiative, calling it a dangerous precedent that could compromise judicial impartiality. HURIWA argued that offering gifts like land and housing to judges creates a conflict of interest, leaving the judiciary vulnerable to executive manipulation.

Prominent lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, also weighed in, arguing that Wike’s actions were unconstitutional, claiming the minister’s role does not extend to providing such gifts to federal judges. He further questioned the potential conflicts of interest that could arise from such actions.

Labour Party spokesman Obiora Ifoh echoed similar concerns, stating that judges should reject the houses, as accepting them could lead to perceptions of bias and compromise their future rulings.

Human rights lawyer Maxwell Okpara also criticized the project, questioning why public funds meant for the development of the FCT were being used for this purpose, when there are pressing needs for basic amenities like clean water and school infrastructure in some parts of Abuja.

The controversy surrounding Wike’s housing initiative continues to stir debate, with critics urging the government to respect the judiciary’s autonomy and focus on improving the welfare of Nigerians as a whole.