The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the federal government’s plan to build lavish housing for judges, labelling it an act of corruption.

The pro-democracy group claims that the executive branch’s decision to allocate public funds for the construction of luxury homes for judicial officers violates the principle of separation of powers as outlined in the Nigerian Constitution.

HURIWA’s concerns are centred on the belief that this move is a covert attempt by the government to influence the judiciary. By offering extravagant housing in Abuja’s prime areas, HURIWA argues that the independence of judges—who are tasked with ruling impartially on cases involving the government and other entities—could be compromised.

The group noted in a statement released and signed by the national coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, that the judiciary already receives funds directly from the Federation Account, raising questions about why it is dependent on the executive for additional benefits.

HURIWA fears that litigants challenging the president or government officials may not receive fair trials, given the perceived financial ties between the two branches of government.

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This criticism comes after Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, praised the housing initiative, saying it would support the mental and emotional well-being of judges. During a groundbreaking ceremony for the project in the Federal Capital Territory, Kekere-Ekun highlighted the importance of providing judges with a secure and comfortable living environment.

“Beyond the courtroom, a supportive and conducive living environment is essential to their ability to focus on the heavy responsibilities entrusted to them. Judicial officers require peace of mind, security, and comfort in their residences to fully dedicate themselves to the rigorous task of interpreting and applying the law,” she said.

However, HURIWA disagrees with the CJN’s endorsement of the project, accusing her of aligning with the political rhetoric of the current administration. The group emphasised that judicial independence is vital to maintaining democracy, referencing global legal authorities who argue that a judiciary free from executive influence is essential to the rule of law.

“The independence of the judiciary is not merely a desirable attribute, but an essential characteristic of a democratic system of government, for it enables the judiciary to perform its constitutional role of protecting individual rights and ensuring that the other branches of government act within the limits of their constitutional authority,” the statement added.