By the very nature of their office, judges are rarely seen, not only in physical terms but also in the public imagination. Their way of life permits neither flamboyance nor extravagance. Save for the few “Judases” in their ranks, they are men and women of integrity. There is something almost otherworldly about the moment a judge is appointed. A person who wears the garb of justice and is addressed as “My Lord” is no ordinary citizen. When he sits to pronounce judgment, he represents, in a profound sense, the Lord of the Universe in the affairs of men.
Are we then to say that, despite their sacrifices, these servants of justice deserve no recognition and should be left to sleep under a bridge? That they don’t deserve to be taken care of?
In a Nigeria currently on its knees economically, the uninformed will almost certainly view Wike’s recent gesture of grace towards the servants of Lady Justictitia as an offering in disguise. The learned, however, will see it differently: it is simply the act of a man who has noticed those who are usually invisible and has decided to give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar.
Wike is known for his passion for commissioning infrastructure projects, and he has transformed the Federal Capital Territory as he is mandated to do. It is clear that infrastructural development is the rhythm that makes his political heart beat.
Nigerians have long been kept ignorant by the powers that be about the true dynamics of the three arms of government. Those who understand the system know that the welfare gap between the judiciary and the other two arms is stark. My Lords still take records in longhand. Their security arrangements are inadequate. They do not enjoy the largesse available to their counterparts in the executive and the legislature. When they fall ill, they are largely left to fend for themselves.
Wike’s action is therefore not a sudden act of charity but a long-overdue gesture of recognition. What citizens should examine is whether ordinary people are also benefiting from improved infrastructure. He has not singled out the Bench; he has undertaken major road rehabilitation across the FCT and continues to do more.
What Nigerians must understand is that this is the kind of results, oriented leadership they have sought for decades. Mr President showed wisdom in appointing Wike as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Destruction is easy; reconstruction requires patience and resolve. The prayer is that Wike’s example will inspire other leaders in high places, especially state governors: as a new campaign season approaches. They would do well to photocopy his focus on tangible delivery.
Nigerians appreciate the little things that make daily life easier. Improving the quality of life of ordinary citizens should be the standard that the political elite strive to meet. In the end, may Nigeria become better for its ordinary citizens and for the leaders of tomorrow. A tomorrow that, in many ways, has already arrived since yesterday.
The government must also urgently address the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), which remains a major driver of hardship among the people. Mr President once declared, “Let the poor breathe.” Having more Wikes in the cabinet would go a long way towards making that declaration a reality. May we live to see the day when Nigerians can finally breathe in peace and we are proud of our country.
Belgore, Esq. Writes from Abuja Email: Moh4gunners@yahoo.com X: @amintin
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