Scavengers, beggars sue Wike, demand N500m in damages

A group of vulnerable residents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), including scavengers, beggars, and petty traders, have filed a lawsuit against the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, seeking N500 million in damages for alleged violations of their fundamental rights.

The suit, filed by legal practitioner Abba Hikima, is before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Hikima, who filed the case in the public interest, stated that it aims to protect the rights of vulnerable Nigerians affected by recent government actions.

The lawsuit alleges that the minister’s directive of October 22, 2024, led to arbitrary arrests, detentions without charges, harassment, and extortion of homeless persons, scavengers, and petty traders.

According to Hikima, these actions violate sections 34, 35, 41, and 42 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantee fundamental rights to dignity, liberty, freedom of movement, and protection from discrimination.

He argued that the treatment of these individuals—through verbal abuse, physical threats, extortion, and detention—constitutes inhumane and degrading treatment.

In his affidavit, Hikima recounted witnessing the actions of a joint task force on November 12, 2024, along Ahmadu Bello Way in Abuja.

The task force, which included personnel from the military, police, and other security agencies, was allegedly enforcing Wike’s directive.

He observed the arrest of several individuals, including hawkers and petty traders, many of whom appeared to be homeless or in economic distress.

Hikima trailed the task force convoy to Eagle Square, where the victims were reportedly dropped off, and later interviewed some of them, documenting their testimonies.

The lawyer argued that homelessness, begging, and petty trading are not crimes but rather symptoms of the harsh economic realities and ineffective government policies in the country. He emphasized that the government’s failure to provide adequate security and social welfare has worsened the plight of vulnerable citizens.

The lawsuit not only demands N500 million in damages but also seeks a court declaration affirming the right of all Nigerians, regardless of their economic status or appearance, to live freely and without harassment in the FCT.

It further called for a public apology from the respondents and an order mandating immediate reforms to safeguard the rights of vulnerable Nigerians.

During a hearing on the case, Usman Chamo, representing the applicant, confirmed that all respondents had been served. A representative for the Department of State Services (DSS) informed the court that a counter-affidavit had been filed, but no representatives appeared for the other respondents, including the minister and the Attorney-General of the Federation.

Justice Omotosho subsequently adjourned the matter to February 4, 2025, and directed that a hearing notice be served on the absent parties.