From left: President Bola Tinubu; FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen George Akume during the commissioning of the FCT Southern Parkway Road in Abuja on Tuesday (28/5/2024) 0335/MAY/28/5/2024/Callistus Ewelike/NAN
Some vulnerable residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), including scavengers, beggars, and petty traders, have filed a suit against the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, and other government entities seeking N500 million in damages over alleged violations of their fundamental rights.
The suit, filed by lawyer Abba Hikima on behalf of the affected individuals, claims that arbitrary arrests, detention, harassment, and extortion of the vulnerable residents by the Federal Capital Territory Authority (FCTA) violates their rights guaranteed under Sections 34, 35, 41, and 42 of the Nigerian Constitution.
In the suit, Abba Hikma prayed the court to declare that “the arbitrary arrest, detention without charges, harassment and extortion of homeless persons, scavengers, petty traders, beggars and other vulnerable Nigerians resident in the FCT, constitute a violation of their fundamental rights.
He is also seeking a declaration that the treatment of vulnerable citizens, including verbal harassment, physical threats, extortion, and detention without charge, constitutes inhumane and degrading treatment contrary to Section 34 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). In addition, he seeks a declaration that Nigerians regardless of their economic status, place, birth or appearance, have the liberty to move freely in the FCT, Abuja including the liberty to sleep on public roads without let, permission or hindrance whatsoever in accordance with the spirit and purpose of Sections 35, 41 and 42 of the Constitution.”
The applicants are seeking a public apology, damages, and immediate policy reforms to safeguard the rights of vulnerable citizens. The alleged violations occurred following a directive by the minister on October 22, 2024, leading to the joint task force’s enforcement operations. Hikima cited instances of individuals being forcefully arrested, harassed, and detained, including hawkers and homeless persons.
During the case’s first hearing, the applicant’s counsel, Usman Chamo, confirmed that all respondents had been served, though representatives for some were absent. Justice James Omotosho adjourned the case to February 4, 2025, ordering hearing notices to be served to the absent parties. The suit emphasizes holding the government accountable for the treatment of vulnerable Nigerians.
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