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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reiterated his earlier claims that President Bola Tinubu is interested in the independence of the judiciary.
Wike said Tinubu’s administration is committed to protecting Nigeria’s judiciary from all forms of manipulation and inducement.
The minister spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of judges’ quarters in the Katampe District of Abuja on Monday.
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The quarters, which will contain 40 houses for different categories of judges, have a completion timeline of 15 months.
According to Wike: “Mr President has always asked, How do we ensure the independence of the judiciary? How can the judiciary be truly independent? One of the key factors that guarantee judicial independence is the tenure of judicial officers.
“As the Minister of Justice and Attorney General stated, the president has addressed this by amending the constitution, allowing judicial officers to retire at the age of 70.
“Mr President also emphasised that the conditions of service are critical to judicial independence. If we want to insulate the judiciary from manipulation or interference by either the legislature or the executive, their conditions of service, especially remuneration, are crucial.”
In other news, former presidential candidate for the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has expressed his reasoning for participating in the 90th birthday celebration of General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), joining other political leaders in the tribute.
Like President Bola Tinubu and other prominent leaders, Obi has publicly celebrated the elder statesman, describing him as an extraordinary gentleman who has rendered commendable service to the nation throughout his career.
Obi’s perspective was not well-received among the Ndigbos, who contend that Gowon was responsible for the turmoil during the civil war, leading them to question the appropriateness of Obi’s admiration.
The civil war in Nigeria, which lasted from 1967 to 1970, was under the command of General Gowon, while the opposing Biafran forces were led by the late Lieutenant Colonel Chukwuemeka “Emeka” Odumegwu Ojukwu, highlighting the duality of leadership during this critical period.In justifying his participation in the celebration of Gowon, Obi emphasized his belief in the power of forgiveness as a vital step toward healing historical wounds.
