Nyesom Wike: My Election Was Nullified, But I Refused To Fight Judiciary

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has urged state governments across Nigeria to play a more proactive role in strengthening the judiciary by providing essential infrastructure and welfare support for judicial officers.

According to Ireporter Online, Wike made the appeal during the commissioning of residential quarters for Justices of the Court of Appeal and the flag-off of housing projects for judges of the National Industrial Court and members of the Code of Conduct Tribunal in Abuja.

He stressed that the responsibility of supporting the judiciary should not be left solely to the Federal Government, noting that courts situated in various states primarily serve residents of those states and therefore require direct involvement from state authorities to function effectively.

Recalling his tenure as Governor of Rivers State, Wike said he took deliberate steps to improve judicial infrastructure after discovering that many cases involving Rivers residents were being handled at the National Industrial Court in Bayelsa State due to a lack of adequate facilities in Rivers.

He explained that after engaging with the leadership of the court, his administration provided the necessary infrastructure and accommodation, which eventually allowed residents to access judicial services within Rivers State.

Wike also referenced a politically sensitive moment when the Court of Appeal nullified his election victory, noting that despite the setback, he remained committed to supporting judicial development because of its importance to the welfare of citizens.

He added that waiting solely on the Federal Government would delay critical progress, urging governors to take initiative in supporting the justice system within their jurisdictions.