The Presidency has warned Peter Obi, the 2027 presidential candidate from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), to “be cautious with this type of politics” after he criticized the Federal Government’s housing initiative for judges.
This warning came from O’tega Ogra, President Bola Tinubu’s Senior Adviser on Digital and New Media, in response to Obi’s remarks about the judges’ quarters project initiated by the current administration.
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Ogra pointed out the contradiction in Obi’s stance, noting that during his tenure as governor of Anambra State, he established and opened residential accommodations for judges in 2013 and committed to building additional properties.
“Peter Gregory Obi should be careful with this type of politics,” Ogra remarked, questioning why a policy that he once supported as governor is now being condemned when implemented by the Federal Government.
He challenged Obi to clarify whether providing adequate housing for judges was regarded as good governance in Anambra, but has somehow morphed into a threat to judicial integrity in Abuja.
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“If offering decent homes for judges is seen as compromising the judiciary, what were you doing in Anambra in 2013 when you constructed and inaugurated judges’ quarters while promising more?” Ogra asked.
The Presidency maintains that enhancing the welfare of judicial officers is crucial for safeguarding the independence of the judiciary and fortifying the justice system.
According to Ogra, subpar living and working conditions could subject judges to undue pressure and manipulation from those attempting to sway judicial outcomes.
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Moreover, this exchange has sparked renewed discussion on the government’s role in supporting the judiciary without compromising its autonomy.
Critics argue that executive-sponsored welfare initiatives could lead to perceptions of influence, while proponents assert that proper housing and improved working conditions are vital for maintaining an effective and impartial judiciary.
The Presidency contends that providing decent accommodation for judges is a valid welfare initiative aimed at strengthening, rather than undermining, the judiciary.
This latest dispute underscores the intensifying political rivalry between the Tinubu administration and Peter Obi as the 2027 general election approaches.
