FCT Scavengers, Beggars Sue Wike for N500 Million Over Alleged Rights Violations

A group of vulnerable residents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), including scavengers, beggars, and petty traders, has filed a lawsuit against the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, demanding N500 million in damages for alleged breaches of their fundamental rights. The suit, brought before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, was filed by Abba Hikima, a legal practitioner acting in the public interest.

The respondents in the suit include Wike, the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Attorney-General of the Federation, and the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The applicants claim the minister’s directive dated October 22, 2024, led to a series of arrests and detentions targeting homeless individuals, beggars, and petty traders in the FCT. They argue these actions violated the victims’ constitutional rights under Sections 34, 35, 41, and 42 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee freedom from inhumane treatment, the right to personal liberty, and freedom of movement.

Hikima is seeking a court declaration that the arrests, harassment, and detention of these vulnerable groups constitute unconstitutional treatment. He also requests a public apology from the respondents and demands policy reforms to protect the rights of vulnerable citizens in Nigeria.

According to Hikima, the arrests were carried out by a joint task force comprising security operatives and enforcement officers, including police and military personnel. He recounted witnessing the task force apprehending individuals perceived as homeless or economically disadvantaged on November 12, 2024, along Ahmadu Bello Way in Abuja. The detainees included hawkers, petty traders, and those visibly struggling due to economic hardship. Hikima described the treatment of the detainees as degrading and intimidating, stating that he followed the task force to Eagle Square, where the victims were detained.

Hikima subsequently interviewed three victims—Abdullatif Shehu, Hajiya Talatu Danladi, and Judith Samuel—whose accounts highlighted the harsh conditions they endured. The lawyer attributed their plight to government policies that have exacerbated poverty and homelessness across the country.

In addition to monetary compensation, the suit seeks an order compelling the respondents to implement measures that ensure the rights of vulnerable Nigerians are upheld. Hikima argues that homelessness, begging, and petty trading are not crimes and blames the government’s failure to provide adequate social security for these issues.

During the initial court proceedings, the applicant’s counsel, Usman Chamo, confirmed that all respondents had been served. A representative for the DSS acknowledged filing a counter-affidavit, but no legal representation appeared for Wike, the Inspector-General of Police, the NSCDC, the Attorney-General of the Federation, or the Federal Government.

Justice Omotosho ordered that hearing notices be issued to the absent respondents and adjourned the case until February 4, 2025, for further hearing.