- FCT Minister Faces Lawsuit Over Crackdown on Vulnerable Residents
- Applicants Demand Apology, Policy Reforms, and Compensation
A group of vulnerable residents in Abuja, including scavengers, beggars, and petty traders, has filed a lawsuit against Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, alleging violations of their fundamental rights.
The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1749/3024, was filed before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja by legal practitioner Abba Hikima on behalf of the affected individuals.
Respondents Named in the Suit
The suit lists Wike as the 1st respondent, alongside the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), and the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN).
Demands of the Suit
The applicants are seeking ₦500 million in damages for the alleged arbitrary arrest, harassment, detention without charge, and extortion of homeless individuals, scavengers, petty traders, and beggars.
They are also asking the court to declare that the treatment of vulnerable citizens constitutes a violation of their rights under Sections 34, 35, 41, and 42 of the 1999 Constitution.
Among their prayers are: A public apology from the respondents to the affected individuals; Implementation of immediate policies and reforms to protect the rights of vulnerable Nigerians; Recognition of the right of all Nigerians, regardless of economic status, to move freely and live in Abuja without harassment.
Allegations Against the FCT Minister
The suit traces its origins to an October 22, 2024 directive by Wike, which allegedly led to a joint task force crackdown on vulnerable residents in Abuja. The lawyer, Hikima, claims he witnessed the task force arresting individuals, including petty traders and homeless persons, on November 12, 2024, along Ahmadu Bello Way.
In his affidavit, Hikima alleges that victims were verbally harassed, physically threatened, and detained without charge, creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. He organized a meeting with three of the victims—Abdullatif Shehu, Hajiya Talatu Danladi, and Judith Samuel—to record their testimonies.
Court Proceedings
When the case came up for hearing, counsel for the DSS informed the court of a counter affidavit, but no legal representation was present for the FCT Minister, IGP, NSCDC, AGF, or the FGN.
Justice Omotosho adjourned the matter to February 4, 2025, and ordered hearing notices to be served on the absent respondents.
Hikima’s Call for Justice
Hikima emphasized that homelessness, begging, and petty trading are not crimes, adding that these conditions result from harsh government policies and systemic failures. He urged the court to uphold the rights of vulnerable Nigerians and ensure accountability for the respondents’ actions.
The outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for the protection of marginalized groups in Nigeria.
