Scavengers, beggars, and other vulnerable residents of Abuja have dragged the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, and several government agencies to court, seeking ₦500 million in damages for alleged violations of their fundamental rights.
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The lawsuit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja and marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1749/2024, accuses Wike and others of arbitrary arrests, illegal detentions, and extortion following the minister’s controversial ban on street begging and scavenging in the city.
The plaintiffs, represented by lawyer Abba Hikima, claim the crackdown has targeted homeless individuals, petty traders, and scavengers, describing the actions as a direct attack on vulnerable Nigerians. Hikima argued that being homeless or engaging in petty trading is not a crime under Nigerian law.
In his affidavit, Hikima recounted witnessing security operatives arresting homeless individuals, scavengers, and petty traders along Ahmadu Bello Way on November 12, 2024. He stated that the government’s failure to provide basic security and a decent life for its citizens had left many struggling to survive.
The lawsuit lists six respondents, including the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of State Security Services (SSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Attorney-General of the Federation, and the Federal Government of Nigeria.
This legal action follows Wike’s October 2024 declaration of “war on beggars,” where he accused them of desecrating Abuja and posing a security threat. He also recently banned scavenging outside designated dump sites and prohibited second-hand goods markets (popularly known as Panteka) for two weeks starting January 14, 2025.
Wike’s policies, aimed at maintaining Abuja’s aesthetics and security, have been met with widespread criticism from human rights advocates, who argue that they criminalise poverty rather than address its root causes.
During the initial court session, the applicants confirmed they were prepared for a hearing. However, while the SSS filed a counter-affidavit, lawyers for Wike, the Inspector-General of Police, NSCDC, the Attorney-General, and the Federal Government were absent.
Justice James Omotosho issued hearing notices to the absent respondents and adjourned the case until February 4, 2025.
