A human rights lawyer, Abba Hikima, has sued the Federal Government, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, and four other officials over alleged harassment and extortion of vulnerable Nigerians in Abuja.
Hikima filed the lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Abuja, challenging the treatment of homeless people, petty traders, scavengers, and beggars in the nation’s capital.
The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1749/2024, lists the Inspector General of Police, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Attorney General of the Federation as respondents.
Lawyer Seeks N500 Million in Damages
Hikima is seeking N500 million in general and exemplary damages for what he describes as “inhumane and degrading treatment” meted out to vulnerable citizens.
He accused the respondents of carrying out arbitrary arrests, illegal detentions without charges, and extortion of vulnerable residents engaging in lawful activities.
“The actions of the respondents violate the fundamental rights of these individuals as guaranteed under Sections 34, 35, 41, and 42 of the Nigerian Constitution,” Hikima argued in his court filing.
He is also demanding a public apology to the affected individuals and Nigerian citizens at large.
“Every Nigerian Deserves Dignity,” Lawyer Declares
The rights lawyer emphasized that every Nigerian, regardless of economic or social status, has the right to freedom of movement and protection from harassment.
“Homeless persons, petty traders, and others engaging in lawful activities deserve to live and move freely without fear of intimidation,” he said.
Hikima is seeking a declaration from the court affirming the rights of all Nigerians to reside, trade, or even sleep on public roads in Abuja without hindrance.
Wike’s Ban on Street Begging Sparks Controversy
The lawsuit comes in the wake of an October directive by Wike banning street begging in the FCT.
On October 28, a task force comprising police, military, DSS, NSCDC, and other paramilitary agencies arrested 15 beggars and 19 scavengers across Abuja.
The operation targeted people living under bridges, in shanties, and in tunnels.
Wike’s administration argued that the crackdown was necessary to restore order and improve the city’s image.
Human Rights Advocates Condemn Crackdown
Critics of the policy have labeled it as heavy-handed and discriminatory against the poor.
A human rights activist, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, “This is not governance; this is oppression. Removing people from the streets without providing alternatives only worsens their plight.”
The activist added that Wike’s policy disproportionately targets the vulnerable while failing to address the root causes of poverty and homelessness.
Public Demands Transparency and Reforms
Hikima’s lawsuit also calls for systemic reforms to ensure that vulnerable Nigerians are treated with dignity and respect.
He is urging the court to compel the government to refund money extorted from arrested individuals and to release those detained without charge.
“The government must stop treating vulnerable citizens like criminals. Policies should focus on rehabilitation and empowerment, not punishment,” Hikima stated.
No Hearing Date Yet
As of now, no date has been set for the hearing of the case.
Hikima has expressed hope that the judiciary will uphold the rights of the affected individuals and set a precedent for accountability in governance.