FCT: Judiciary budget intact, projects not to negatively influence you – Tinubu assures judges
President Tinubu Affirms Judicial Budget Security During Infrastructure Inauguration
President Bola Tinubu assured members of the judiciary on Wednesday that their budget remains secure, emphasizing that the provision of housing and other infrastructure projects will not impact it adversely.
Speaking at the inauguration of 20 quarters for judges of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Katampe, Tinubu characterized the housing initiative as an intervention project intended to support judicial officers, rather than influence them negatively. He was represented at the event by Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi.
Tinubu addressed concerns raised in some quarters about potential undue influence stemming from the provision of housing for judges. “I am aware of commentary suggesting that the FCT Administration’s initiative is meant to exert improper influence on the judiciary,” he stated. He contrasted this project with recent housing provided for lecturers at the Nigerian Law School, questioning whether similar claims were made regarding that initiative.
He continued, “If every act of infrastructural provision is viewed as a corrupting influence, it raises the question of fairness in judging the intent behind such initiatives. This is an intervention project that is separate from the judiciary’s ongoing and respected budget.”
While acknowledging that such interventions can exert influence, Tinubu clarified that the intended effect of this housing project is to inspire commitment and allow judicial officers to focus on their responsibilities. He advocated for providing an environment that ensures the rule of law and allows judges to perform their duties without discomfort.
“This project sends a clear message that this government is dedicated to the comfort, security, and protection of our judicial officers while reinforcing the independence of the judiciary,” he stated.
The president underscored the importance of a secure environment for judges, noting, “We often speak of judicial independence in abstract terms, but true independence requires a safe and stable environment. Judges must be able to dispense justice without fear or favor, and their basic comfort and security cannot be left to chance.”
