Judges’ Welfare Key To Independent Judiciary – FCT Chief Judge

The Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Justice Husseini Baba-Yusuf, has said better welfare for judicial officers is necessary to ensure an independent and efficient judiciary, describing it as a core requirement for the justice system.

He spoke on Wednesday during the inauguration of the newly completed 20-unit Judges’ Quarters in Abuja, saying the housing project is an investment in the justice sector and the country’s democratic system.

Justice Baba-Yusuf said the project, which began less than two years ago, was completed within a short period, adding that it reflects commitment to improving the judiciary.

He said the new quarters are more than residential buildings, explaining that they are aimed at protecting the dignity of judicial officers while easing concerns about accommodation and welfare after retirement.

According to him, judges perform better when they are provided with decent living conditions, proper security and the support needed to carry out their constitutional duties.

He stated that judicial independence goes beyond constitutional guarantees and also depends on adequate infrastructure, good welfare packages and suitable working conditions.

Justice Baba-Yusuf said providing quality housing for judges would help them carry out their responsibilities with fairness, courage and commitment to the rule of law.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu for supporting the project, saying the initiative reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening the justice sector.

The Chief Judge also praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for initiating and completing the housing project, describing it as a major addition to judicial infrastructure in the country.

Speaking on behalf of judges and staff of the FCT Judiciary, he pledged continued dedication to upholding the Constitution and ensuring justice is delivered fairly and without bias.

Justice Baba-Yusuf also appealed to the FCT Minister to provide similar housing projects for judges of the FCT Sharia Court of Appeal and the Customary Court of Appeal, noting that both courts play important roles within the FCT judiciary.

He pointed out that similar accommodation projects have already been completed for the National Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal, while judges of the Court of Appeal, the Federal High Court, the Body of Benchers and the Nigerian Law School have also benefited from related housing initiatives.

The Chief Judge added that the inauguration comes at a time when the FCT High Court is handling increasing responsibilities as Abuja continues to grow as the nation’s political, administrative and commercial centre.

He assured residents of the Federal Capital Territory that the judiciary would continue to protect the rule of law and deliver justice fairly despite the rising workload before the courts.