- Renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has criticized the Federal Government’s allocation of luxury homes to judicial officers in Abuja, labeling the gesture as discriminatory and illegal.
- While clarifying that judges deserve secure and comfortable accommodation, Falana argued that leaving out other vital public servants, like poorly paid university professors, violates constitutional equality.
- The human rights advocate announced plans to challenge the exclusive distribution of luxury houses in court, calling for equal resource distribution across all classes of public service.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has threatened to drag the Federal Government to court over its recent handover of newly built luxury homes to judicial officers in the Katampe district of Abuja.
Eko Hot Blog reports that speaking in a video interview, Falana described the distribution of high-end real estate exclusively to judges as a highly discriminatory and illegal practice under Nigerian law.
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He insisted that the policy violates constitutional guarantees of equal treatment for all citizens and public servants.
The lawyer clarified that his grievance is not about judges receiving appropriate housing, recognizing that they must work securely and live comfortably.
Instead, he faulted the government’s decision to prioritize one class of public officials while leaving other vital professionals, such as educators and retired civil servants, with nothing.
Falana pointed to university professors as a clear example of the government’s skewed priorities.
He lamented that many academics, who render invaluable services to the nation, are poorly remunerated, lack access to decent staff quarters, and are forced to live in substandard rented accommodations.
He also targeted the double standards enjoyed by political elites, noting that about 21 former state governors currently serving in the National Assembly draw jumbo legislative packages and housing benefits in both Abuja and their home states.
This, he argued, stands in stark contrast to ordinary civil servants who retire after 35 years of service with little to no pension support.
The controversial housing initiative in Katampe is part of a larger Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) scheme led by Minister Nyesom Wike to construct 40 luxury residences for judges.
The project, commissioned by President Bola Tinubu, has faced mounting criticism from various civic groups who argue that gifting houses to the judiciary compromises its independence and borders on institutional inducement.
Falana concluded by warning that a legal challenge is imminent to test the constitutional validity of the lopsided policy.
