Wike Decries Slow Pace Of Appeal Court Project

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of work on the new Court of Appeal Complex in Dakibiyu, Jabi District of the FCT, stating he is not happy with the contractor’s speed.

Wike’s comments came on Monday after he inspected the ongoing construction of the Court of Appeal complex and the Judges’ Quarters at Gishiri District.

Expressing his disappointment, the minister recalled the promise made to the judiciary.

“You remember that we made a promise to the Court of Appeal that in their next legal year, that occasion will be taking place in their new division.

“Having gone there today, I’m afraid. I’m really not too satisfied that the contractor will meet up. I feel so bad,” he said.

However, Wike assured that the project, which he described as ‘dear to Mr. President,’ would be completed within the year.

“But not being happy will not solve the problem. So the contractor will see me today and let’s see what we can do to see that we expedite the speed of that work,” he added.

Meanwhile, the minister expressed satisfaction with the progress made on the 20 units of 5-bedroom duplexes for the FCT High Court Judges and the 10 units for the Court of Appeal Judges at the Gishiri site.

Wike said that the handover date is set for January 2026, expressing optimism about an early delivery.

“I believe with where they are going, they may be able to hand over before that period. But by and large, we’re happy,” he said.

The minister credited President Bola Tinubu with the vision for the improved welfare packages for judicial officers, emphasising that the initiative aims to ensure judicial independence and the safety of judges.

“This is the initiative from Mr. President who has never hidden his intention to provide welfare and make the judiciary independent, where our judges will not be living amongst criminals. That will not be the best solution,” Wike said.

He elaborated that the purpose of the quarters is to create a secure and conducive environment for judges to perform their duties without fear.

“With what Mr. President has put out, it shows that yes, they have that autonomy. They will want to stay on their own and carry out their jobs without any fear,” he said.