ADC Accuses APC of Turning Public Projects Into Executive Generosity

Judiciary Independence has become the centre of a fresh political confrontation after the African Democratic Congress (ADC) accused the ruling All Progressives Congress of undermining public confidence in the courts by celebrating newly commissioned judges’ residences and judicial infrastructure as though they were personal gifts from government officials. What appeared to be a routine commissioning ceremony has evolved into a broader debate over constitutional boundaries, public perception and the delicate relationship between Nigeria’s executive and judicial arms of government.

ADC Says Judges’ Welfare Is a Constitutional Duty, Not a Political Gift

The dispute followed the inauguration of the new Court of Appeal Abuja Division Complex and associated judicial housing projects in the Federal Capital Territory. The facilities form part of ongoing judicial infrastructure investments under President Bola Tinubu’s administration and include courtrooms, judges’ suites, conference facilities and residential accommodation for judicial officers. According to government officials, the projects are intended to strengthen the justice system and improve working conditions within the judiciary.

However, the ADC argues that Judiciary Independence cannot be measured by ribbon-cutting ceremonies or political commendations. The party insists that decent accommodation, security and welfare for judges are constitutional obligations financed by public funds and should not be portrayed as favours granted by elected officials. ADC officials contend that excessive praise directed at President Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike risks creating an impression that judicial welfare depends on executive goodwill rather than constitutional entitlement. In a democracy built upon separation of powers, the party argues, even the appearance of dependency can raise concerns about institutional neutrality.

Questions Emerge Over Public Perception of Judiciary Independence After Abuja Commissioning

Recent developments surrounding Nigeria’s judiciary have amplified discussions about institutional credibility and public confidence. During the commissioning ceremonies, government representatives repeatedly argued that improved infrastructure is essential for judicial effectiveness and independence, maintaining that judges cannot function optimally without adequate facilities and working conditions. President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at one event and by the Attorney-General at another, described the projects as investments in democracy, rule of law and institutional reform.

Yet critics argue that the debate extends beyond bricks and mortar. Political observers note that judicial perception remains a sensitive issue because courts routinely adjudicate election disputes, constitutional controversies and cases involving public officials. The timing of the controversy is particularly notable given ongoing public conversations about judicial decisions and political party disputes. In recent days, the Court of Appeal was also involved in proceedings affecting the ADC and other political parties, further intensifying discussions about the judiciary’s role in Nigeria’s democratic process.

The irony is difficult to ignore. A project designed to strengthen confidence in the justice system has instead sparked a national argument about how confidence should be built in the first place. While one side points to modern courtrooms and judges’ residences as evidence of progress, the other insists that Judiciary Independence is ultimately judged not by buildings but by public trust. OGM News Nigeria will continue monitoring reactions from political stakeholders, judicial experts and civil society groups as this debate unfolds and shapes the wider conversation about democratic governance in Nigeria.