By Seyi Babalola
Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, has stated that the Tinubu government is concerned about the mental and emotional well-being of judges.
She stated that the government recognizes that court officers’ mental and emotional health is strongly related to their living situations.
She made this comment on Monday during the start of the design and building of 40 dwelling units for Judges’ Quarters in Katampe District, Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Kekere-Ekun performed the groundbreaking exercise in the presence of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, principal officers of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, as well as FCT Area Council Chairmen, among others.
Kekere-Ekun described the exercise as a significant milestone in the continuation of efforts by the Federal Government and the FCT Administration to enhance the welfare of judicial officers in the Federal Capital Territory.
She stressed that the provision of comfortable and befitting accommodation for judicial officers is a practical step towards ensuring that they are well supported, adding that it will also provide an environment for judges to carry out their duties with independence, impartiality, and integrity.
She said, “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.
“It goes beyond addressing the basic needs for housing. It reflects the recognition that the mental and emotional well-being of judicial officers is directly tied to their living conditions.
“These homes will provide a secure and tranquil environment, enabling judicial officers to perform their duties with greater focus, efficiency, and clarity of mind.”
Justice Kekere-Ekun, who also acknowledged the focus of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, further commended the FCT Administration for its initiative and forward-thinking in implementing the project, which, she said, reflects the importance placed on the welfare of judicial officers.
