A group of vulnerable residents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), including scavengers, beggars, and petty traders, have taken legal action against the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, over alleged violations of their fundamental human rights. The group is demanding ₦500 million in damages for what they describe as inhumane and unconstitutional treatment.
The suit, filed by human rights lawyer Abba Hikima, names 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 as respondents.
Hikima stated that the legal action, marked as FHC/ABJ/CS/1749/3024, was filed in the public interest to protect the rights of vulnerable citizens. “This case is about holding public officials accountable and ensuring that the rights of the poor and marginalized are respected,” he said.
Allegations of Arbitrary Arrests and Harassment
In an affidavit submitted to the Federal High Court in Abuja, Hikima alleged that on November 12, 2024, security operatives, acting on a directive issued by Wike on October 22, 2024, conducted a raid along Ahmadu Bello Way. According to him, the joint task force, which included police and military personnel, arrested individuals they perceived as homeless, scavengers, beggars, and petty traders.
“These individuals, including hawkers selling ice cream, sweets, and biscuits, were forcefully apprehended, verbally harassed, and subjected to physical threats,” Hikima said. “This created an atmosphere of fear and intimidation in full view of the public.”
Hikima said he followed the task force convoy from a distance and witnessed the victims being dropped off at Eagle Square. He later contacted three of the victims, Abdullatif Shehu, Hajiya Talatu Danladi, and Judith Samuel, to document their experiences.
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Claims of Rights Violations
The suit argues that the actions of the task force constitute a breach of fundamental rights guaranteed under Sections 34, 35, 41, and 42 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria. These sections protect the rights to dignity, personal liberty, freedom of movement, and protection from discrimination.
“It is not a crime to be homeless, beg, or engage in petty trade in Nigeria,” Hikima emphasized. “The treatment of these individuals reflects the failure of government policies to provide security and decent living conditions for its citizens.”
The plaintiffs are asking the court to:
1. Declare the arrests, detention without charges, harassment, and extortion of vulnerable individuals as unconstitutional.
2. Order the respondents to publicly apologize for their actions.
3. Award ₦500 million in general and exemplary damages to the affected individuals.
4. Mandate the respondents to implement policies and reforms to protect the rights of vulnerable citizens.
Government Response
When the case came up for hearing before Justice James Omotosho, only the DSS was represented in court. DSS counsel, A.P. Korobo-Tamono, informed the court that a counter-affidavit had been filed. However, no representatives appeared for Wike, the Inspector-General of Police, NSCDC, the Attorney-General of the Federation, or the Federal Government.
Justice Omotosho ordered that hearing notices be served on the absent respondents and adjourned the case to February 4, 2025, for a full hearing.
Public Reactions
The case has sparked widespread debate, with human rights advocates praising the move as a step toward accountability. “This lawsuit highlights the need for systemic reforms to address the plight of Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens,” one advocate said.
The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has not yet issued an official statement on the matter. However, many are eagerly awaiting the court’s decision on what could set a significant precedent for protecting the rights of marginalized groups in Nigeria.