The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly condemned the Nigerian government’s plan to build luxury homes for judges and justices, calling it a blatant attempt to bribe the judiciary. According to HURIWA, this move violates the principle of separation of powers outlined in the 1999 Constitution, specifically Sections 4, 5, and 6.
The group questions why the judiciary, which receives its funding directly from the Federation Account, is seeking lavish accommodations from “power-seeking political ideologues” in the Federal Capital Territory. HURIWA believes this is a deliberate attempt to compromise judicial independence, ensuring favorable rulings for the ruling party.
Chief Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun defended the government’s actions, stating that comfortable living conditions are essential for judicial officers’ mental and emotional well-being. However, HURIWA disagrees, arguing that her stance sounds more like a ruling party ideologue than an impartial judicial leader.
The group expressed concern that litigants challenging the president or federal authorities will struggle to receive fair justice, given the executive branch’s influence over the judiciary. HURIWA emphasized the importance of judicial independence, citing authorities that stress Nigerian courts must remain impartial and unaffected by the executive branch.